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Surpassing a milestone: Prostate Health Classic raises over $1 million

Three men stand side by side for a photo
The D’Uva family’s dedication to giving back helps advance prostate testing and care

One in seven men in Canada will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime. Claudio D’Uva wants to assure they receive care as early as possible, so in 2018 he helped launch the Prostate Health Classic golf tournament in support of Sunnybrook, which to date has raised more than $1.3 million.

“When my dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer, he was lucky enough to get early detection, which saved his life,” says Claudio. “We want that for everybody.”

An avid golfer, Claudio’s enthusiasm for the game is matched by Dr. Robert Nam, Sunnybrook’s Soham & Shalia Ajmera Family Chair in Urologic Oncology, who treated Claudio’s father. Together they co-founded and now co-chair the annual tournament.

“The support from friends, colleagues and the community has been overwhelming,” says Claudio, Vice-President of Downsview Kitchens, the tournament’s presenting sponsor. “We don’t have to ask twice.”

The funds raised from the tournament help improve prostate cancer care for men through ground-breaking research into early detection and precision treatment at Sunnybrook’s Odette Cancer Program.

“As a direct result of the funds raised through this event, we’re giving more families hope for the future,” says Dr. Nam. “I am grateful to the D’Uva family, golfers, donors and sponsors for their support of this event.”

Claudio encourages anyone considering a fundraiser to go for it. “My dad always said everybody helps each other. Hospitals are not supported from government funds alone. We need to help. No matter how much you raise, there’s no better feeling than knowing you can help change somebody’s life.”

For more information on how to start a fundraiser for Sunnybrook