Mr. Speaker, it is April and spring is here, at least in British Columbia. The daffodils are in full bloom and so is the Canadian Cancer Society's fundraising campaign.
Since 1938 the Canadian Cancer Society has tried to eradicate cancer and sought to better the lives of people suffering from this terrible disease. Cancer research has resulted in many breakthrough treatments over the years. In 1979 the five-year survival rate for childhood leukaemia was 17 per cent. Today, thanks to advancements in research and rehabilitation, it is 83 per cent. The Canadian Cancer Society also helped to fund the recent discovery of a breast cancer gene that will enhance prevention.
Despite our small victories, the fight against cancer is not over. In 1995 alone 126,000 Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer and 62,000 will die from the disease.
Therefore, this April I urge all Canadians to give generously to the Canadian Cancer Society volunteer who comes their door. Together we can give not only money but hope to the thousands of Canadians suffering from cancer.