BC Cancer’s Ernie & Yvonne Yakimovich Integrated Care and Research Pavilion Officially Opens

• Expansion of BC Cancer’s campus creates dedicated space for Supportive Care programs 
• BC Cancer Foundation raises $11.3 million to fully fund the new building  

BC Cancer and the BC Cancer Foundation are proud to announce the opening of the Ernie & Yvonne Yakimovich Integrated Care and Research Pavilion, a major expansion to the BC Cancer – Victoria campus that will enhance critical Supportive Care services for nearly 1,000 patients each year.  BC Cancer – Victoria’s Clinical Trials Unit will also move into the Pavilion, creating space to expand innovative research and allow more patients to access leading-edge treatments that improve outcomes and quality of life. 

This milestone was made possible by the over 2,100 donors who raised $11.3 million to fully fund the purchase and renovation of the building, including a transformational $2.5 million gift from Ernie and Yvonne Yakimovich. In recognition of their philanthropic leadership, the Pavillion has been officially named the Ernie & Yvonne Yakimovich Integrated Care and Research Pavilion. 

“This Pavilion is a testament to what’s possible when a community comes together to ensure every patient feels supported, seen and cared for throughout their cancer journey,” says Sarah Roth, President & CEO, BC Cancer Foundation.  

“We are deeply honoured to see this space open its doors to the community,” say Ernie & Yvonne Yakimovich. “We’re grateful to everyone who joined us in making this space of hope, comfort and connection for patients and families facing cancer a reality.” 

The new 12,000-square-foot facility, located at 2340 Richmond Road, will house many of BC Cancer – Victoria’s Supportive Care programs — including Patient & Family Counselling, Hereditary Counselling and Medical Genetics — which provide families with vital emotional, psychological and genetic support as part of their cancer care journey. BC Cancer – Victoria’s Clinical Trials Unit and select administrative teams also moved to the Pavilion, helping relieve space constraints in the main building. 

“By bringing together these Supportive Care programs under a single, patient-centered space, we’re creating an environment that truly integrates care,” says Heather Wood, Executive Director, BC Cancer – Victoria. “Our Supportive Care team provides the tools and supports needed to manage day-to-day challenges and optimize quality of life throughout the cancer care journey.” 

Supportive Care services make a tremendous difference for patients and families navigating an initial diagnosis, treatments and follow-up care. For people who have completed treatment, walking past chemotherapy or radiation therapy areas can trigger painful memories. Additionally, a hospital-like setting can feel stressful for family members seeking information on hereditary cancers and genetic testing. 

BC Cancer and the BC Cancer Foundation extend their gratitude to the community across the Island and beyond who rallied to support this transformative project — from Lynda and Murray Farmer, OBCs, who led the Foundation’s fundraising as honourary co-chairs, to the Campbell family, whose $500,000 matching gift inspired more than 1,000 donations, to local businesses, including a group of competing grocery brands that united to fundraise.