Dragon Flies bring change to breast cancer care in Kawartha Lakes

KIM COULTER, Communications Specialist, RMH

KAWARTHA LAKES: Around the globe, dragon flies are a symbol of good fortune, symbolizing change and better times ahead. True to their namesake, the Dragon Flies Breast Cancer Survivor Group is changing the nature of breast cancer care, in Kawartha Lakes, and sharing hope through their sisterhood.

Since 2002, the Dragon Flies' giving has helped the Ross Memorial Hospital (RMH) to acquire the best diagnostic technology, including 3D Mammography and MRI, and to become an Accredited Breast Assessment Centre, with a High Risk Breast Screening program, affiliated with Cancer Care Ontario.

The Dragon Flies host their flagship awareness event, called Diva Night, each year, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It was during this special event, at the Victoria Park Armoury, in Lindsay, on October 24th, the Dragon Flies announced gifts which would touch even more lives in the Kawartha Lakes.

Founding members, Nancy Hanna and Jo-Ann Forson, presented a cheque for $10,000 to Erin Coons, RMH Foundation CEO.

“Technology is transforming the world around us, improving our connections and enhancing our access to services we never thought possible a generation ago,” said Erin Coons. “The Dragon Flies have played a big role in the transformation underway at the Ross. We’re grateful to have such committed community partners, helping to grow services and spaces, at our local hospital, as our patient population expands. Our thanks to the Dragon Flies and to everyone who participates in their fundraising events which impact care throughout the Kawarthas.”

Over the past 22 years, the Dragon Flies have donated more than $1.5 million to local hospitals, including the Ross. With this donation, the Dragon Flies’ total giving to Ross Memorial Hospital Foundation reaches $430,300.