Cancer Care Fund

The idea for the Cancer Care Fund was inspired by a Bowen Islander’s experience with cancer treatment and the realization that the financial hardship can rival the physical impact. The Cancer Care Fund is here to help with financial gifts for Bowen Island residents either in active treatment or who have completed treatment within the last 12 months.  Recipients may choose to spend their gift on what best suits their personal needs.

Thanks to our amazing donors, sponsors and participants, together we have helped lightened the load for our island friends and neighbours.

“Beyond the bills it will cover is the knowledge that I live in a community so wonderful that it supports me both personally with my loving and supportive friends and neighbours, and anonymously with donations and time to make the cancer journey of a fellow islander more manageable. I can’t tell you how important this gift has been to me both financially and emotionally as I continue my path to health. From the bottom of my heart: Thank you.” CCF Recipient

Download the Fund Application

Eligibility

The SwimBowen Society acknowledges that each cancer patient’s diagnosis and resulting choice of treatment (traditional or alternative) is unique and therefore demands a thoughtful, flexible approach with each situation.  It is also understood that other extenuating circumstances may affect eligibility criteria as noted below and will again be considered at the discretion of the board.

Applications for the SwimBowen Cancer Care Fund are accepted with a doctor’s prescription for cancer treatment. However, patients wishing to pursue alternative treatments are eligible for the SwimBowen Cancer Care Fund. Cancer re-occurrences as well as palliative patients are eligible for Funds. Bowen Islanders may receive the SwimBowen Cancer Care Fund more than one time. Please reach out to us if you wish to re-apply for another gift. We would love to help!

Funding Levels

Cancer Care Funding gift amounts vary from $1500 to $4000 and are determined in part by the recipient’s level of need, and by the amount of funding raised during the annual SwimBowen event.

Cancer Gifts to Date:
$164,000

Since 2018, the SwimBowen Cancer Care Fund has gifted 76 gifts totaling $164,000 to support Bowen Islanders in active cancer treatment.

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DISBURSEMENTS

Cancer Care Fund disbursements depend on total funds raised and level of need in the community, while ensuring appropriate start up funds remain in the account for the following year’s swim launch.

FAQs

  • The SwimBowen Society does not ask you to divulge your financial status. We understand that a cancer diagnosis and the ensuing treatments are hard enough without having to jump these kind of hoops! We only ask that you verify your cancer treatment with a stamp and signature from your doctor or health practitioner as part of your completed application form.

  • 7-10 days

  • Yes. As long as you are a resident of Bowen Island diagnosed with cancer* you are eligible for the Cancer Care Fund.

  • A cheque will be mailed to you.

  • No. You may choose to spend it on self-care services, groceries, rent, or a mortgage payment - whatever lightens your load!

  • We do ask a small favour. In order to spread the word of SwimBowen’s Cancer Care Fund, we ask that you drop us a note to let us know how the funds helped you. We then share your words (anonymously) in upcoming editorials, social media posts, and other awareness campaigns.