Choc'laCure 2011 Project

2011 is an exciting year!! Choc'laCure begins its 5th campaign helping the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency fund the new Stereotactic Radiosurgery Treatment Program at the Saskatoon Cancer Centre.

Stereotactic Radiation: An investment in Patient Care and Excellence

Stereotactic radiosurgery is a non-surgical procedure that delivers precisely targeted radiation at much higher doses than traditional radiation therapy while minimizing the radiation to healthy tissue organs nearby. Initially stereotactic radiation was only used to treat tumours of the brain. Now it is also being used to treat cancer in other parts of the body as well.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery works in the same way as other forms of radiation treatment. It does not actually remove the tumour; rather, it damages the DNA of tumour cells. As a result, these cells lose their ability to reproduce.

The benefits for the patient receiving Stereotactic Radiation include:

• Alternative to invasive surgery especially for patients who are unable to undergo surgery for tumours that are located close to vital organs or in difficult areas of the body to reach.
• Painless treatment -- Radiosurgery is similar to having an x-ray as the patient is not able to see, hear, or feel the radiation beam.
• Better treatment outcomes and less damage to nearby healthy organs and other soft tissues because the radiation dose is delivered with greater accuracy.
• Treatment time is often short, which is more comfortable and convenient for patients.

Currently Saskatchewan residents who would benefit from this form of treatment are sent out of province to receive this treatment. We know that providing care close to home and where the patient has the support of family and friends makes a difference in their experience and recovery. We would welcome the ability to provide this type of care in Saskatchewan.

The field of radiosurgery is rapidly increasing and has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of many types of cancer in the future. By providing Stereotactic Radiosurgery in Saskatchewan we would not only help patients and their families in the fight against cancer, but we would also have the potential to attract and train young neurosurgeons, creating a centre of excellence for our province.

The Saskatchewan Cancer Agency would like to acquire Stereotactic Radiation equipment for the Saskatoon Cancer Centre at a cost of approximately $4.5 million.