Local Healthcare Leaders Rappel 170 Feet For Cancer Care
Windsor ON – Courage took centre stage in downtown Windsor on Saturday, June 21, as healthcare leaders and community members took a bold step off the edge of the CIBC building for local cancer care. Brave Day marked the thrilling finale of the Windsor Cancer Centre’s “Show Us Your Brave” campaign.
Participants demonstrated extraordinary bravery by rappelling 170 feet from the rooftop of the CIBC building, each having raised a minimum of $1,500 to secure their spot in this daring descent. The event drew a large crowd of supporters, media, and onlookers who cheered on the rappellers and captured their reactions as they touched down.
Among the notable participants were:
- Dr. Sindu Kanjeekal, Chief of Oncology, Windsor Regional Cancer Program
- Karen Riddel, Interim CEO, Windsor Regional Hospital
- Kristen Kennedy, President and CEO, Erie Shores Healthcare
Though always a supporter of the Show Us Your Brave campaign, this was Dr. Kanjeekal’s first time rappelling. She reflected on the powerful symbolism of Brave Day:
“Brave Day is a salute to our patients who face the unimaginable with strength and determination. What moves me most about this event is how it reflects the cancer journey. As an oncologist, I witness the courage it takes to navigate a diagnosis, and the vital role that support systems play. Just like our patients lean on loved ones, our rappellers step off the edge knowing there’s a crowd below lifting them up. Whether in a treatment room or on the ropes, it’s that unwavering support that makes the hardest moments bearable.”
Funds Raised will support vital programs like the Stem Cell Transplant Program, Breast Reconstruction, and support initiatives that focus on patient’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. 100% of funds raised stay local and supports cancer patients in our community.
Houida Kassem, Executive Director of the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation, emphasized the deeper meaning behind Brave Day:
“Brave Day is our way of turning adrenaline into impact. Every rappel tells a story and every donation fuels progress. Our participants help fund the very equipment and programs that make local cancer care possible. But more than that, this event reminds us that real bravery happens every day inside hospital walls. Behind every dollar is a patient, a story, and a reason to continue to raise much needed funds. This isn’t just an event. It’s a powerful statement that our community believes in showing up and stepping outside of their comfort zone all for our cancer community.”
This year’s Show Us Your Brave campaign has raised over $320,000 with donations still pouring in. The official campaign total will be announced in July. For photos, interviews, or more information about Brave Day and how to get involved in future events, please contact:
Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation
Brandy Coulsey, Marketing and Communications Manager
519-254-5577 ext. 58559
bcoulsey@windsorcancerfoundation.org
About Show Us Your Brave
Show Us Your Brave is an inspiring fundraising and awareness campaign that challenges individuals and organizations to step outside their comfort zones in support of local cancer patients. Participants commit to raising funds and conquering personal challenges, whether rappelling 170 feet off the downtown CIBC building on Brave Day or “Braving Your Own Way” through setting your own goals, all to fuel excellence in cancer care.
Since its launch in 2024, the campaign has raised over $700,000 with all funds staying local to benefit patient care, programs, and support services at the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre.
For more information, please visit: https://windsorcancerfoundation.org/show-us-your-brave/
About the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation
The Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation serves as the official fundraising arm for the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre, fulfilling requests of the Windsor Regional Cancer Program. These requests include the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment, patient amenities, and initiatives, such as the Patient Assistance Fund, and our Seeds4Hope program which supports excellent local cancer research. 100% of funds raised stays local and supports world class cancer care close to home. Thanks to tremendous community support, the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation has raised over $30 million to date!