Are you a registered charity?
Yes. Our business number is 85521 2221 RR0001.
Who can use your programs and services?
Anyone who is experiencing cancer between diagnosis and one year post-treatment. All ages, all types of cancer.
Is there a fee to use your programs?
No. The Centre fundraises year-round so that we can offer our programs for free to anyone living with cancer.
What can I expect if I register?
You can participate in all our wellness programs to help you live well with and through cancer. They include counselling, fitness, nutritional cooking, support groups and more. Here is how one participant described their experience at the WICWC: The West Island Cancer Wellness Center is a vibrant sanctuary sustained by compassionate volunteers who together create a nourishing, family environment filled with love, hope and courage.
How do your programs differ from medical treatment?
Our programs complement traditional medical therapy. While doctors treat the cancer, we address your physical, emotional and spiritual needs to help you live well with and through cancer.
Do you communicate with the medical doctors?
Doctors are often the ones who refer participants to the Centre (although a referral is not required). During registration you’ll be given a medical authorization form to present to your doctor. This form lets your medical team know you’re participating in our programs and provides the WICWC with pertinent medical information. If your health status changes after you’ve completed this form, it’s your responsibility as a participant to make sure we receive a revised medical form.
Can I bring a friend or family member with me to use your programs and services?
Yes! When you register, you can register with a caregiver (e.g. spouse, child, parent, friend). We do have support programs offered to caregivers. Anyone living with cancer (non-caregiver) or their caregiver is eligible between the time of diagnosis and one year post treatment. Note: In the unfortunate situation of a death of a non-caregiver (cancer participant), regrettably caregivers can no longer benefit from our programs & services. However, we will refer you to some excellent resources in the community to support you and should you wish to continue using the services of our professionals outside of the centre, you can find all of their coordinates here.
How do I start using WICWC programs and services?
We ask you to register with us as a participant. Simply call us (514 695-9355) for an appointment to meet with a Wellness Guide who will talk to you about your needs and the Centre, and who will follow up with you periodically. As soon as your file is finalized and all the information needed is complete, you can begin using our services.
How long can I belong to the WICWC?
From diagnosis to one year post-treatment. We consider “treatment” as active treatment. For example, if someone is on hormone therapy, this isn’t considered “active treatment”, as it’s more of a preventative medication. Note: In the unfortunate situation of a death of a non-caregiver (cancer participant), regrettably caregivers can no longer benefit from our programs & services. However, we will refer you to some excellent resources in the community to support you and should you wish to continue using the services of our professionals outside of the centre, you can find all of their coordinates here.
Where can I find the Programs & Services and how do I register?
This link takes you to our Programming Calendar otherwise you can get there from our Programs & Services section of our website. It is updated every 2 weeks and you will receive an email from us with those updates as well as the dates and times for you to register. Registration takes place every two weeks. You select what you wish to attend and then call us at 514 695-9355 to sign up for your choices.