Health Research Champions

Platinum
Health Research Champions in the platinum category generously contribute $100,000 or more annually to support local health research.

Play for A Cure

Play for a Cure is a community-driven initiative that combines the love of hockey with the mission to advance cancer research in Windsor-Essex. Founded by cancer survivor Jeff Casey, the annual Pro-Am tournament offers local players the unique opportunity to share the ice with NHL alumni, all while raising funds for the Cancer Research Collaboration Fund. Since its inception in 2019, the event has raised nearly $2 million, directly supporting local researchers and projects aimed at improving cancer care and outcomes in our region.

To learn more, visit the Play for A Cure website!

Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation

The Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation (WCCF) is a long-standing supporter of cancer research in Windsor-Essex, dedicated to improving care through community-driven fundraising. Through its Seeds4Hope program, the Foundation has invested over $2.2 million in local cancer research, helping to launch innovative projects that directly impact patients and their families. This includes ongoing support for WE-SPARK’s grants program, including the Igniting Discovery Grants, which fund early-stage health research and education initiatives across the region.

To learn more, visit the WCCF website!

ChildCan

ChildCan is a dedicated charity supporting families in Southwestern Ontario through every stage of the childhood cancer journey. Since 1974, they have provided personalized financial assistance, emotional support, and social programs to ease the burdens faced by families. ChildCan also invests in innovative research, aiming to improve outcomes and bring hope to children diagnosed with cancer. Their unwavering commitment ensures that families can focus on care, knowing they are not alone.

To learn more, visit the ChildCan website!

Katelyn Bedard Bone Marrow Association

The Katelyn Bedard Bone Marrow Association (KBBMA) is a Windsor-based charity dedicated to raising awareness about the critical need for bone marrow donors and supporting families undergoing transplants. Founded in 2005 by Bryan and Joanne Bedard after losing their daughter Katelyn to leukemia, the association promotes donor registration, provides financial assistance through its Family Support Program, and funds research for blood cancers and stem cell transplants. 

To learn more, visit the KBBMA website!

The Tayfour and Emara Research Grant

Dr. Fouad Tayfour and Dr. Barry Emara are long-time advocates for advancing local health research in Windsor-Essex. Through the Tayfour and Emara Research Grant, they provide ongoing support for innovative projects led by hospital-based researchers, helping to strengthen research capacity and improve health outcomes in our community.

BEAR Construction & Engineering Inc.

BEAR Construction & Engineering Inc. is a Windsor-based company specializing in construction and engineering services. Beyond their professional endeavors, they are committed supporters of local health research, contributing annually to WE-SPARK's grants program and helping advance innovation and improved health outcomes in our community.

To learn more, visit the BEAR website!