Laughter is the best medicine

Philippe Villemure has been an active volunteer with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC)’s First Connection program for nearly 10 years. Having been diagnosed with leukemia at age 27, he has lived with the disease for about 20 years and knows the shock of a cancer diagnosis all too well.

Today, he uses his experience to help others, offering compassion and reassurance to newly diagnosed individuals.

When it feels like the world has been turned upside down, Philippe is there to pick up the phone and talk. He lends a listening ear to help people get through the initial shock. Thanks to his empathetic communication style and approachable manner, he’s able to create a safe space where people can express themselves freely and let their feelings out, sometimes to the point of tears.

What makes Philippe an exceptional volunteer is his ability to be both funny and serious. Without ever downplaying the reality of the situation, he uses lightheartedness to ease the tension and build trust. He believes that a smile or a laugh can be a powerful anchor even in the toughest of times, when the fear and uncertainty seem all-consuming.

His commitment to volunteering started with his own cancer journey. Today, however, it’s primarily driven by his desire to give back. He now serves as a guiding light for others facing similar challenges, setting an example of resilience in the face of adversity.

Over time, his volunteer work has shaped him as well. He gains as much as he gives: a sense of purpose and the conviction that he can make a real difference in the lives of others.

Philippe continues to be involved with the LLSC on a daily basis. Through his attentive presence and ability to lighten the burden of the unknown, he embodies our values of hope and mutual support with simplicity and humanity.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada is proud to name Philippe Volunteer of the Year 2026 in recognition of his unwavering commitment and lasting impact on the blood cancer community.