Have you been touched by an angel?

How can I say “thank you” to those who made a difference during my cancer treatment?

If you or a loved one has ever been a patient at the Northeast Cancer Centre, you may have encountered a doctor, nurse, technician or volunteer who brought you comfort and reassurance in a time of need.

More than 10 years ago, Lianne Dupras and her family received news that no one ever wants to hear — she had leukemia.

As devastating as the diagnosis was, Lianne and her family remained strong and kept positive, knowing they would pull through.

Today, she is healthy and happy, and is grateful for the care provided by the many doctors, nurses and health professionals at the Northeast Cancer Centre.

Lianne recalls one person in particular.

“Dr. Kulwant Gill of the oncology department is a brilliant doctor,” she said. “He took the time to explain and answer all of my and my family’s questions in regards to my leukemia and its treatment plan.”

The staff of the Northern Cancer Foundation (NCF) often hear from former patients who are thankful for the care they received at the Northeast Cancer Centre.

Much of the foundation’s fundraising success is a direct result of the world-class care delivered by the medical staff.

With this is mind, the NCF created a program that would allow patients and their loved ones to show their gratitude for their efforts, and the Guardian Angel Program was born.

For a minimum donation of $100, you can pay tribute to the care received at the Northeast Cancer Centre. In turn, your Guardian Angel will receive an acknowledgement card informing him or her of your thoughtful gift, and a custom-crafted lapel pin to wear with pride.

Gifts received through the program will help provide essential services towards the department or unit your angel works in.

“When I heard about the foundation’s Guardian Angel Program, my husband and I decided that as a gift to my parents, who were also a great source of support during my illness, we’d donate to this program on their behalf,” Lianne said. “They are so thankful to Dr. Gill for healing their ‘little girl.’”

Angels can be someone who provided exceptional friendliness, compassion, care or even a warm blanket that brought comfort to you or your loved one. It could have been a lifesaving procedure or a visit from a volunteer during your treatment.

Our angels will be deeply moved to know that they have touched your lives. Have you been touched by an angel?

Tannys Laughren is the executive director of the Northern Cancer Foundation.