Sunnybrook opens Canada's largest breast cancer centre

The opening of the Louise Temerty Breast Cancer Centre – home to expanded areas for specialized clinics, integrated breast imaging research and clinical trials – featured some very special guests, including Ontario’s Premier, the Honourable Kathleen Wynne.

The Premier was joined at the April 4 opening by Ontario Minister of Health and Long-Term Care Deb Matthews and Ontario Minister of Research and Innovation Reza Moridi, as well as patients, volunteers and staff. Located on M6, the Louise Temerty Breast Cancer Centre provides tailored care for thousands of patients diagnosed with the cancer.

"For as long as I can remember, the words 'breast cancer' have struck fear in the minds of women," Sunnybrook President and CEO Dr. Barry McLellan said at the opening celebration. "Today, we hope the launch of this centre will instead instill a sense of confidence that if women and their families hear those dreaded words, they can take some comfort in knowing the professionals at the Louise Temerty Breast Cancer Centre are there for them," he added.

"I want to congratulate everyone who worked so hard to bring the Louise Temerty Breast Cancer Centre into being - the researchers and staff who are revolutionizing how we approach cancer treatment and care, and the donors who are so generously contributing to this project," Wynne said at the event. "It really is a remarkable statement of who we are as a community."

The Premier spoke personally, noting she is "eternally grateful" for the breast cancer care her partner, Jane Rounthwaite, received at Sunnybrook.

Attendees also heard from Susan Conacher, who shared her breast cancer journey. "At Sunnybrook I had the luxury of feeling safe with all of the caregivers... safe that they would do all it took, and safe that they would help me do all they asked," Susan said.

"For all the women out there about to go through the journey, or who are in the process - I wish you the courage to carry on."

Named in honour of Louise Temerty, the centre was able to open sooner thanks to a pivotal $10-million gift from Louise and Jim Temerty, chairman and founder of Northland Power Inc. Jim Temerty was also among the event's distinguished speakers.