Sea Wolves Cancer Packs have been hot commodities. (Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Ian Holmes

cancer brotherhood

Cancer advocates ride wave of momentum to help more men

Sep 21, 2024 | 6:05 AM

NANAIMO — A movement assisting men on Vancouver Island battling cancer is expanding its reach.

The Sea Wolves Cancer Pack initiative, formed by a pair of Nanaimo cancer survivors including Don Helgeson, has been a well-received program since the packs were introduced.

“We realized that there was such a need, to get 200 out in the first two years and we just put an order in for an additional 100 of these,” Helgeson told NanaimoNewsNOW.

Filled with several items such as a blanket, toque and various other hygiene and comfort products to assist men during cancer treatments, “chemo packs” represented a gesture that has touched a lot of lives, Helgeson aid.

Requests have come in from all over Vancouver Island, with Helgeson noting donations are even being made from around the world to assist Island men in their time of need.

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“We’re hearing from men sitting in those chairs in oncology units going through chemotherapy that they’re not alone. The items inside these packs are comfort and practical items.”

Key fundraiser

A third annual Man Up to Cancer fundraising event takes place Saturday, Sept. 21 from 11 a.m. through 4 p.m. at Wolf Brewing Company at 940 Old Victoria Rd.

Speakers, a barbecue, entertainment, prizes and activities for kids will be on hand at he south Nanaimo event.

Aside from cancer packs and plans to establish weekend getaways for men fighting cancer, Helgeson said the Sea Wolves Cancer Pack team hosts social events to help men support each other.

He said various social meet-ups, outings for coffee and attending local sporting events are all hallmarks of the Sea Wolves.

“Mainly what we’re trying to do is help men avoid isolation and we’re changing the way that men face cancer by showing that you don’t have to go through cancer alone.”

Helgeson said the Sea Wolves movement also aims to amplify the importance of men taking ownership of their lives by seeking routine medical evaluations, and immediately addressing pressing concerns.

More information on the Sea Wolves Cancer Pack effort, including requesting a pack or donating to help purchase more, can be found at this website.

Don Helgeson says more Sea Wolves Cancer Packs are on the way. (Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

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ian.holmes@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes