Connection, Learning and Community Across Canada

In early June, people affected by blood cancer gathered in Edmonton, Ottawa-Gatineau and St. John’s for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada’s (LLSC) Connect & Learn events. Joined by local healthcare professionals, expert speakers and community members, attendees explored topics ranging from treatment advances to managing the day-to-day realities of living with a blood cancer. Across all three cities, the events reinforced the importance of community, connection and support.

Edmonton: A Welcome Return

The Edmonton event marked the return of an in-person blood cancer conference to the city for the first time in eight years. 

Attendees shared that the agenda reflected the unique needs and experiences of people affected by a blood cancer in Alberta. For some, it was their first introduction to LLSC following a recent diagnosis. For others, it was an opportunity to connect with people who truly understood the realities of living with blood cancer.

“What stood out most, though, were the connections,” said Desiree Naylor, Community Service Lead, Prairies. “Watching those conversations happen and seeing new connections form is a reminder of why these events matter.”

Ottawa-Gatineau: Learning Together in Two Languages

In the Ottawa-Gatineau region, participants took part in a bilingual event featuring sessions on cancer-related fatigue, brain fog and the process of bringing new cancer treatments to Canadians.

“Too often, people assume that specialized education and support opportunities are only available in larger centres,” said Jolyane Pelletier, Community Services Lead, Quebec West. “Being able to bring a bilingual Connect & Learn event to Ottawa-Gatineau helps ensure that people affected by a blood cancer can access information, ask questions and connect with others in their own communities.”

The event concluded with a personal story from LLSC Blood Cancer Ambassador Keegan Morin who shared his experience living with Burkitt lymphoma.

“It was a great turnout,” he said. “Listening to all the questions and hearing about the financial aspect of cancer was something that stood out.”

One attendee described the event as “well organized, incredibly engaging and a safe space for everyone to share their lived experiences.”

“Being able to engage with both our French, English and bilingual speakers was a big priority for us and we're glad to see that folks could see themselves represented and included,” added Isabella Garofalo, Community Services Lead, Ontario West.

St. John’s: A First for Newfoundland and Labrador

This year marked LLSC’s first-ever Connect & Learn event in St. John’s. 

Expert speakers Dr. Jacqueline Costello and Dr. Marissa Maheu shared insights on emerging blood cancer treatments, managing fatigue and sleep challenges and navigating life after diagnosis. A lived experience panel featuring both people diagnosed with a blood cancer and caregivers created space for honest conversations about fear, hope, resilience and life beyond treatment. 

Throughout the day, attendees connected through shared experiences, finding comfort in knowing they were not alone. As organizer Brooke Dewhurst, Community Service Lead, Atlantic Region reflected, people often come for the expert presentations, but it’s hearing from others who have walked a similar path that truly brings the room together.

“In true east coast fashion, it didn’t take much for folks to start up conversation with one another and find their common ground,” she added.

Bringing People Together

Whether participants came together to learn from experts, ask questions or connect with others who understand, each event reinforced the importance of community.

Thank you to everyone who attended, shared their experiences and helped create welcoming spaces for learning, support and connection.

Connect & Learn will return to Vancouver in the fall. Visit Upcoming Community Events | LLS Canada for more information on upcoming in-person and virtual events. 

Looking for personalized, one-on-one support? A member of our Community Services team is ready to serve you in your community. Never hesitate to contact us, we’re here to help. Click here to connect with your local Community Services Lead today.