MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR, Liz Whamond
As I reflect on our growth and development during the past decade, I am both mindful of our humble beginnings and proud of the remarkable journey that has taken us to where we are today.
Throughout the Autumn 2011 CCAN Progress Report, you will find short summaries of our work this past year; testimonials from a few of our more than 25 valued member organizations and highlights of where we envision our planning will result in actionable items as we move forward. By sharing some of the activities that link to our ongoing efforts to advance the interests of cancer patients and their families, this report will serve as a reminder of what makes our patient-centered organization so unique.
As we reflect on the past and focus on the future, the Board of Directors is empowered to lead the organization forward based on the diverse needs of cancer patients and their families. Much of our success as an organization is grounded in the realization that working in close collaboration with our partners while actively engaging patients is critical to ensuring an informed patient perspective remains reflected in the cancer control strategy.
As Chair of CCAN, I am very appreciative of the enormous contribution our growing team of pan-Canadian patient voice representatives provides to the organization. While our presence throughout Canada deepens, we continue to welcome new faces to the CCAN team of patient voice representatives leaving us well positioned to take ACTION across a broad spectrum of the cancer control continuum. Indeed, through coordinated patient engagement we are making a difference… and we are doing it together!
With the close of the current mandate quickly approaching, our focus turns to our 2012-2017 strategic priorities. Without question, this is a very exciting time for CCAN. Earlier this year, based primarily on patient input provided by CCAN Members Council throughout 2010 and into 2011, the Board of Directors and staff were actively engaged in strategic planning. As we continue to engage key stakeholders, partners and valued members in our work, we look forward to ensuring a strong, coordinated and unified patient voice is actively engaged.
There is still much work for us to do!
Liz Whamond
Board Chair
Canadian Cancer Action Network
