Construction Begins on BC Cancer – Kelowna’s Marshall Eliuk Systemic Therapy Cancer Suite

Construction is officially underway on the new, state-of-the-art Marshall Eliuk Systemic Therapy Cancer Suite at BC Cancer – Kelowna — a major leap forward that will transform the experience of patients and families across the Interior for decades to come. 

Made possible through an extraordinary $6.1 million BC Cancer Foundation fundraising campaign, the new suite will significantly expand Kelowna’s capacity to deliver life‑saving drug treatments, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, while laying the groundwork for future research and innovation close to home. 

Built to Meet the Growing Needs of the Interior 

Cancer rates in the Interior are rising as the population grows and ages, and clinicians at BC Cancer – Kelowna have long been caring for more patients than the existing space was designed to support. 

The Marshall Eliuk Systemic Therapy Cancer Suite will help change that. 

Once complete, the expanded space will increase treatment capacity by approximately 40%, allowing more patients to receive timely care close to home and meet the increasing demand for care in the region.  

The over 4,000 square foot suite will accommodate 24 treatment chairs and is designed with patient experience at the forefront. Features will include improved privacy, space for loved ones to attend appointments, and a more calming, welcoming environment that supports people through long and often difficult treatment days. 

“Every design decision was guided by what matters most to patients, from how the space feels, to how care is delivered,” says Dr. Ross Halperin, BC Cancer – Kelowna’s Executive Medical Director. 

Bringing Research and Clinical Trials Closer to Home 

Beyond expanding capacity, the new suite will greatly expand access to early‑phase clinical trials in the Interior. 

The space will allow clinicians to launch more Phase 1 trials and involve patients earlier, helping accelerate the path from research discovery to patient care — and reducing the need for travel outside the region. 

“This suite will position Kelowna to play a larger role in advancing cancer research in British Columbia,” adds Dr. Halperin. “We’re incredibly grateful and proud to soon be able to offer the most cutting-edge treatments to our patients here in Kelowna.”   

By investing in infrastructure today, donor support is helping BC Cancer – Kelowna meet not only today’s needs, but the needs of cancer care in the decades ahead. 

A Community Effort, Fuelled by Philanthropy 

The start of construction marks the culmination of a remarkable fundraising effort, supported by more than 115 donors from across the Interior and beyond. 

A transformational $1.5 million gift from philanthropist Marshall Eliuk played a pivotal role in making the project possible. In recognition of his commitment to BC Cancer and the BC Cancer Foundation, the space has been named the Marshall Eliuk Systemic Therapy Cancer Suite. 

“Surviving a serious blood disorder many years ago changed my life and deepened my appreciation for the kindness of others,” says Marshall, whose life was saved by blood donors.  

“Supporting this new suite is a way to honour that generosity and give back to a community my family cares for deeply. My wife, Judi, and I hope it brings strength and comfort to families throughout the Okanagan facing cancer.” 

Looking Ahead 

Construction of the new suite is expected to continue through the fall, with opening anticipated in late 2026. 

When complete, the Marshall Eliuk Systemic Therapy Cancer Suite will mark a new chapter for cancer care and research in the Interior — one defined by greater access, innovation and the ability to meet the needs of patients today and in the future. 

This progress is only possible because of the generous donor community and BC Cancer Foundation, who continue to come together for patients when it matters most.