An Incredible $620,000 Raised for Life-Saving Cancer Research on Vancouver Island at the BC Cancer Foundation’s Jingle Mingle and Jingle Soirée

VICTORIA, B.C. – On December 5th, the BC Cancer Foundation’s 7th Annual Jingle Mingle brought Vancouver Island supporters together at the best holiday party of the season, raising $620,000 for world class research at BC Cancer – Victoria.

With 300 guests in attendance at Victoria’s landmark Fairmont Empress Hotel, the evening began with an inspirational high. The announcement of a $100,000 gift from long time supporter of the BC Cancer Foundation, Jo Campbell, raised the bar for priority cancer research projects at the Victoria centre.

“Tonight is about enabling pivotal research discoveries for tomorrow, that have a direct impact on improving the lives of cancer patients in our community and beyond,” said Bonnie Campbell, speaking on behalf of the Campbell family.

Guests bid on a range of high-calibre items including a 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT, an original painting by Laura Harris created just for Jingle Mingle, dinner for 12 at the historic Highwood House, a family cruise for four to Alaska and much more. Guests also enjoyed a musical performance from the Beacon Hill Brass band.

“The concerted philanthropic efforts through Jingle Mingle and Jingle Soirée will support Dr. Brad Nelson and his team of brilliant researchers who are finding solutions right here at the BC Cancer Agency Deeley Research Centre,” said President and CEO Doug Nelson.

Funds raised will make serious headway in shaping the future of cancer care through advancing priority projects, such as Immunotherapy Clinical Trials. The Deeley Research Centre is the only site in Canada that is doing this type of research, and a great example of how the rapid translation of research discoveries into new, more effective treatments for individuals facing cancer.

“An event like this is a team effort and I’d like to thank the Jingle Mingle committee for their commitment and dedication,” said Dan Sharp, Jingle Mingle committee Chair. “Tonight is truly a memorable evening where hundreds of generous businesses and individuals have advanced cancer research and care on Vancouver Island and beyond,” added Sharp.

Following the Jingle Mingle cocktail party a group of guests continued on to enjoy an exclusive dinner experience in the beautiful Ivy Ballroom for Jingle Soirée and a private performance by the Daniel Lapp Jazz Quartet.

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The BC Cancer Foundation is the bridge that connects philanthropic support and research breakthroughs in cancer knowledge.  As the fundraising partner of the BC Cancer Agency and the largest charitable funder of cancer research in this province, we enable donors to make contributions to leading-edge research that has a direct impact on improvements to cancer care for patients in British Columbia. We fund with the goal of finding solutions. Visit www.bccancerfoundation.com to make a donation or to learn how you can make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.

The BC Cancer Agency, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority, is committed to reducing the incidence of cancer, reducing the mortality from cancer, and improving the quality of life of those living with cancer. It provides a comprehensive cancer control program for the people of British Columbia by working with community partners to deliver a range of oncology services, including prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, research, education, supportive care, rehabilitation and palliative care. For more information, visit www.bccancer.ca.