Celebrating each step despite the challenges
At the age of 44, Jimmy Morel, a resident of Saguenay, Quebec, has been moving forward since he was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder inherited from his mother: attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis. This condition, characterized by the formation of polyps, makes him particularly vulnerable to cancers.
Like him, thousands of people from 17 regions across Quebec will come together for Relay For Life on June 7 and 14. By walking and raising funds for the Canadian Cancer Society, they will honour those living with and beyond cancer, and help change their future.
With this year’s slogan, "Celebrate each step,” the event resonates deeply with Jimmy.
"For me, celebrating each step means getting through each stage of the disease with pride. It means keeping hope alive despite the challenges.”
Jimmy has had his fair share of challenges: 6 cancers involving the salivary glands and thyroid, 4 operations and a genetic disorder which continues to affect his family – his sister is a carrier for the condition, and his nephews and nieces are at risk.
Today, Jimmy moves forward with gratitude.
We don’t just live to survive. We live to enjoy life. Today, I’m in good health and I want to live each moment fully.
13 years of commitment to the cause
To share his strength and his resilience, Jimmy has been involved with Relay For Life in Alma, Quebec for the past 13 years. Losing both his parents to cancer gave him a sense of determination.
"My boss, honorary president of the Relay in 2012, was the first to invite me to participate. My father had just died from lung cancer. Obviously, I accepted without hesitation.”
Since then, his commitment has never changed. As a spokesperson in 2024, Jimmy continues to walk, raise awareness and raise funds. Thanks to him, thousands of dollars have been invested in research and support for people living with and beyond cancer.
Research changes lives
“I’m living proof that donations help advance research.”
Doctors had warned Jimmy that getting a clear genetic picture of his health could take 5, 10 or 15 years.
However, he got it in just a year and a half, and was treated without chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
“It’s science and breakthroughs in precision medicine that have made this possible.”
Today, Jimmy is certain of one thing: research changes lives – His own, and those of future generations, he hopes.
When he thinks about the future, his nephews and nieces come to mind immediately.
"Like their mother and me, they are at risk. My ultimate dream is for them to be spared, of course. And I believe in it.”
Every step and every donation counts
Every 3 minutes, someone in Canada is diagnosed with cancer, and 2 in 5 Canadians are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. For Jimmy and thousands of others, your support can make all the difference.
By forming a team or joining an existing one, you will contribute to:
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Accelerating research led by the most brilliant cancer scientists in Canada
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Helping people affected by cancer through support programs and information services provided by the Canadian Cancer Society
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Advancing prevention, access to screening and better healthcare with governments
Together, we can make a difference and change the future of cancer. Every action, every step and every donation counts.