02/22/2026
Really important work
đź’™Today, we are proud to publicly celebrate the Dr. Margot Burnell Cancer Support Program, a community-built initiative that has grown from grassroots beginnings into a trusted source of care for cancer patients and families in Greater Saint John.
Inspired by Dr. Margot Burnell’s leadership, values, and early vision for more human, integrated cancer care, The Arthur L. Irving Family Foundation made the thoughtful decision to name the program in her honour. Together with Irving Oil , their $2 million founding gift helped bring this vision to life and continues to strengthen the program today.
Dr. Burnell has long championed an approach to cancer care that extends beyond treatment alone, one that recognizes the emotional, physical, and personal realities patients and families face. That vision lives on through a holistic, community-based program that supports the whole person in mind, body, and spirit.
Because of donor generosity and strong community partnerships, more than 1,000 patients and family members accessed free, evidence-based cancer support through this program since inception. Each number represents a person who felt less alone, more supported, and better equipped to navigate their cancer journey.
This program is the result of many hands and hearts coming together, clinicians, nurses, program leaders, community partners, donors, and volunteers, turning shared compassion into meaningful, lasting support for patients and their loved ones as they navigate one of the most challenging and uncertain times of their lives.
đź”— Read the full announcement: https://sjrhfoundation.ca/2026/02/17/a-community-united-for-cancer-care-introducing-the-dr-margot-burnell-cancer-support-program/
đź’™ Learn more about the free cancer support programs available in your community: http://drburnellcancersupport.ca/
