In a nation where so many are impacted by lymphoma, it can be disheartening to acknowledge that many Canadians remain unfamiliar with this cancer. However, Lymphoma Canada is dedicated to empowering patients and the lymphoma community through education, support, advocacy, and research.
That’s why we want to invite you to WALK WITH US! Participate in Laps Around Lymphoma to learn more about lymphoma and its subtypes and the impact of this cancer on individuals and families across Canada.
Join us as we embark on this journey of awareness, compassion, and solidarity in the face of lymphoma. We will begin by providing a clear understanding of what lymphoma is.
What Is ‘Lymphoma’?
Lymphoma is a complex group of cancers that originate in the lymphatic system, which is a critical part of our immune system. This system consists of lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels, and lymphoid organs. It plays a vital role in filtering and transporting lymph, a clear fluid containing lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) which helps fight infections and diseases.
In lymphoma, the abnormal and uncontrolled growth of lymphocytes leads to the formation of malignant cells. These cancerous cells can accumulate in various parts of the lymphatic system, including the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, bone marrow, and other organs like the tonsils and adenoids. Additionally, lymphoma can affect non-lymphoid organs, such as the stomach, intestines, skin, and even the brain.
Traditionally lymphomas have been categorized into two main categories: Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). They differ primarily based on the type of cells involved and their characteristics under a microscope. Hodgkin lymphoma is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, which are large abnormal cells derived from B-lymphocytes. On the other hand, non-Hodgkin lymphoma encompasses a wide variety of lymphomas that do not have Reed-Sternberg cells.
There are over 80 subtypes of lymphoma, each with its own clinical presentation and treatment options.
Lymphoma can present with various signs and symptoms, including painless swelling of lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and itching. However, these symptoms can be non-specific and may mimic other conditions, making the diagnosis challenging.
What Causes Lymphoma?
The exact causes of lymphoma are not fully understood, and research is underway to unravel the complex factors contributing to its development. While there may be a genetic predisposition in some cases, the majority of lymphoma cases arise without a clear hereditary link. Instead, scientists believe that a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors may play a role in triggering it.
How Lymphoma Affects the Lives of Canadians
Lymphoma’s impact is vast and often hidden. It is the fifth most common cancer in Canada, affecting young and old alike. Sadly, awareness is low, and its name may not even sound like cancer. One of the reasons for this lack of awareness is the absence of the word “cancer” in its name, which can lead people to underestimate its seriousness.
Living with lymphoma can be a very difficult experience for patients and their families. The uncertainties, physical challenges, and emotional toll accompanying the diagnosis demand unwavering support and understanding. Coping with the disease’s effects, both physically and emotionally, can be a tremendous struggle. That’s where, at Lymphoma Canada, we try to serve as a guiding light for those navigating the complexities of this disease.
What Role Lymphoma Canada Plays in Helping Patients and Their Families
At Lymphoma Canada, our mission is to empower patients and the lymphoma community through education, support, advocacy, and research. Our resources are based on Canadian statistics and reviewed by Canadian researchers. We connect patients, families, caregivers, medical professionals, and researchers. We advocate for patients and provide support groups; educational forums; and materials on Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). We also fund Canadian research to improve lymphoma understanding and treatments. Our goal is to bring hope and support to those affected by lymphoma, making their journey easier and more hopeful.
The purpose of the challenge is for participants to take 100,000 steps in honour of each and every Canadian currently living with lymphoma.
What Is Laps Around Lymphoma?
We at Lymphoma Canada are thrilled to celebrate our 25th anniversary by inviting all Canadians to join us in our fourth annual Laps Around Lymphoma fitness challenge. Laps Around Lymphoma is our fourth annual virtual fitness challenge, and we can’t wait for you to be a part of it.
The purpose of the challenge is for participants to take 100,000 steps in honour of each and every Canadian currently living with lymphoma. Can we count on you from September 15 to 30, 2023, to take 100,000 steps in support of over 100,000 Canadians living with lymphoma? Your participation will not only raise awareness about this challenging disease but help fund vital lymphoma programs and resources.
This event holds special significance as it coincides with World Lymphoma Awareness Day on September 15 and is part of Blood Cancer Awareness Month. It is the perfect opportunity to come together as a community, unite our efforts, and bring hope to those facing lymphoma.
Join us in this fitness challenge from anywhere in Canada. You can track your steps using your favourite fitness device or smartphone app along a virtual racetrack, making it a convenient and enjoyable experience. Together, we can illuminate the path of hope and support for patients and their families. Let’s make a difference in the lives of those affected by lymphoma.
How to Participate and Make a Difference
Engaging in Laps Around Lymphoma is simple, and you have the opportunity to register as either a lymphoma patient or a community participant. Regardless of your role, every step you take brings hope to those fighting lymphoma.
- Register for the Event: Now that you’re here on Lymphoma Canada’s official website, select your registration type, as a community participant or a patient participant.
- Create Your Fundraising Page: Develop a compelling personal fundraising page, sharing your story, aspirations, and determination to make a difference. Update your photo and personal message to inspire others to join your cause.
- Reach Out for Donations: Empower your network to contribute to your cause. Ask friends, family, and co-workers to support your journey, and always express your heartfelt gratitude for their kindness.
- Connect to the Virtual Racetrack: Upon registration, you will receive a confirmation email containing a link to the MoveSpring app, the virtual racetrack for this challenge. Use the organization code “lal” to connect to Lymphoma Canada as the associated organization.
- Choose Your Avatar: Personalize your MoveSpring profile by selecting a fun avatar photo and a unique username.
- Get Moving: Connect your smartphone or fitness devices like Fitbit, Apple Watch, Garmin, and others to the MoveSpring virtual racetrack. Monitor your progress and movement starting September 15.
- Race and Fundraise: Compete to be the first to complete 100,000 steps (approximately 76 km) and raise crucial funds for lymphoma patients. Remember, every step counts and makes a significant impact in the fight against lymphoma.
Prizes
At the Laps Around Lymphoma challenge, participants can win exciting prizes!
Best Purple Picture Prize
Share your preparations for the challenge on social media with #LapsAroundLymphoma by September 14th, 2023, for a chance to win a Blink Home Security Camera.
Top Overall Fundraiser Prizes (Regardless of Participant Category: Top 5 Fundraisers as of September 30, 2023):
- 1st Place: Apple iPad Air 10.9″ 256GB with Wi-Fi (5th Generation) in Space Grey
- 2nd Place: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) In-Ear Noise-Cancelling Truly Wireless Headphones
- 3rd Place: Google Nest (Wired) Wi-Fi Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) in Snow
- 4th Place: Google Home
- 5th Place: Google Home Mini
Top Challenger Prizes (Participants who take the most steps between September 15 and 30, 2023):
For Patient Participants:
- 1st Place: Apple Watch SE (GPS) 40 mm Midnight Aluminium Case with Midnight Sport Band (2022)
- 2nd Place: Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 10.5″ 32GB Android Tablet with Unisoc 618 8-Core Processor
- 3rd Place: Google Home
For Community Participants:
- 1st Place: Apple Watch SE (GPS) 40 mm Midnight Aluminium Case with Midnight Sport Band (2022)
- 2nd Place: Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 10.5″ 32GB Android Tablet with Unisoc 618 8-Core Processor
- 3rd Place: Google Home
Don’t miss out on the chance to win these amazing prizes while supporting the lymphoma community!
Making a Difference – One Step at a Time
Laps Around Lymphoma is an incredible opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those affected by lymphoma. By participating in this event, we can raise awareness about this challenging disease and support crucial lymphoma research, programs, and resources.
Join us on this journey of awareness, compassion, and solidarity in the face of lymphoma, and let’s work together to bring hope and support to the lymphoma community. Every step we take and every contribution we make counts, and with your participation, we can make a meaningful impact and help those fighting against lymphoma. Together, let’s register for Laps Around Lymphoma and be part of the positive change we want to bring to the lives of those affected by lymphoma.
