Photo Description: The Women Of Fight To End Cancer 2020 (left to right: Julia Siegal, Kristin Smith, Elissa Herrington  Paula Higgins, Alissa Winicki, Megan Facciuolo), alongside their 4 teammates hope to raise over $250,000.00 this year alone.  Learn how you can join them in their Fight To End Cancer.  View FTEC2020 Fight Team.

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March 8th is International Women’s Day, an opportunity for us to collectively celebrate women’s achievements while calling for a more gender-balanced world. The Fight to End Cancer (FTEC) has always featured at least one female fight, since its inception, which more often than not turns out to be the “Fight Of The Night”. FTEC2020 will be featuring three female bouts, the most we’ve ever had on one card! Although only one hand will be raised at the end of the fight, each of these women will exit the ring victorious as we become one step closer to ending cancer in our lifetime.

In 2019, 220,400 Canadian women were diagnosed with cancer and 82,100 died from the disease

The theme for the 2020 campaign is “I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women’s Rights.” As we all celebrate this important day, take a moment to reflect on the 6 incredible female members of the FTEC2020. Let’s celebrate them as they balance their already busy lives, while committing to months of intense training, coupled with raising tens of thousands of dollars in support of The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.

Media Contact:
Jennifer Huggins
Founder, Executive Director
Phone: +1.416.666.9314
Email address: jennifer@fighttoendcancer.com

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Countless women have dedicated their lives to ending cancer. Let’s celebrate International Women’s Day, with the Women Of The Fight To End Cancer by taking a look at some of their incredible stories…

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ALISSA WINIKI | FTEC2020 FIGHTER

I’m sincerely humbled and honoured to be a part of the 2020 Fight to End Cancer (FTEC) team. I first learned about the FTEC a few years ago. Immediately, the words challenge, sacrifice, commitment, and strength came to mind. I knew I wanted to be a part of it.
Cancer plagues us all. If you’re lucky enough not to have lost a family member or close friend to cancer it doesn’t mean you haven’t been affected. It doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. It doesn’t mean you haven’t shed a tear, been at a loss for words, or truly grasped the feeling of helplessness when this disease unfairly latches on to a friend of a friend, a client’s wife, an old babysitter, a mother’s childhood friend, a boyfriend’s uncle, a mentor’s father. ~ More About Alissa

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ELISSA HERRINGTON | FTEC2020 FIGHTER

In February 2019, I joined Grafton Apparel as their Human Resources Manager. When I joined the company, I knew we sponsored Fight to End Cancer…but didn’t understand the depth of what went into this incredible fundraising event until June 2019, when I was invited to attend.
When I was sitting in my chair, spectating, I said to myself – and everyone at my table…as I realized I had been speaking my inner thoughts out loud – that I was going to put my ‘hat in the ring’ and tryout for next years fight. ~ More About Elissa

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PAULA HIGGINS | FTEC2020 FIGHTER

For the incredible women in my life who have fought for their lives against cancer, I want to honour them. When cancer hits, life still goes on, but with the physical, financial, and emotional burdens that cancer brings. Though I have not physically experienced it first hand, I understand how devastating and life-changing the impacts of cancer can be. I’m proud to be participating in the 9th annual Fight To End Cancer in support of The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. I am raising research dollars with a vision of reaching a goal we all share; To Conquer Cancer In Our Lifetime! ~ More About Paula

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MEGAN FACCIUOLO | FTEC2020 FIGHTER

We all know someone affected by cancer, either directly or indirectly. While some overcome it, many do not. I’ve been a witness to both circumstances: my one grandfather battled colon cancer, and at almost 90 years old, he is healthy, cancer-free and still hitting the slopes each ski season. The other, however, I never had the pleasure of knowing, because he was taken at a young age by lung cancer. ~ More About Megan

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JULIA SIEGAL | FTEC2020 FIGHTER

I’m honoured to be fighting alongside my husband Josh Siegal in the 2020 Fight To End Cancer. I fight for his Grandmother Roz, and for my friends and family that are scared to have kids because cancer runs in their family. Wonderful, incredible people are lost to this horrible disease every day, and if I can do even a little bit to help bring us closer to eradicating it, that would be an awesome feeling. ~ More About Julia

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KRISTIN SMITH | FTEC2020 FIGHTER

I am participating in the 9th Annual Fight To End Cancer in support of The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. I am raising research dollars with a vision of reaching a goal we all share; To Conquer Cancer In Our Lifetime!
What started out as only wanting to try something new, very quickly turned into an opportunity to be a part of something more impactful than I ever imagined was possible. Cancer has affected us all in one way or another and it does not discriminate. Cancer doesn’t care how old someone is, how meaningful they are to those around them, or how shattered it will leave the lives of those who remain behind. ~ More About Kristin

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JENNIFER HUGGINS – FOUNDER | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

“I am commonly asked why I choose to “fight” cancer.  The truth is, there are so many causes out there that need to be supported and one day I hope to fight for all of them.  I fight cancer as these diseases continue to attack those who mean the world to me – my community.
The Fight To End Cancer started as an outlet through which I could bring together all of my passions:  boxing, business and entertainment.  Developing this unique fundraising event allowed me the ability to try to fulfill my dream of building a stronger, healthier community.
I believe that fighting is in our DNA.  It is a skill we develop when dealing with adverse situations.  Sometimes, we choose to fight and other times, we are forced to.  The battle which one faces with cancer, is much like a boxing match; only the decision to step into the ring was made for them along with their opponent.  The team that stands behind a boxer can make, or break, their fight.  It is no different for someone who is faced with the reality of having to fight cancer – the team behind them can make all the difference.
Cancer does not discriminate.  We have all watched, painfully, as it attacks friends and family, both young and old.  It tests the limits, of not only the victim, but also of their loved ones. Maintaining the physical strength it takes to go to battle with cancer is something that can take virtually everything out of an individual.  However, the burning flame to fight and to win must never be extinguished – those who can fight – must.” ~ More About Jennifer

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ANGIE SETH | OFFICIAL MASTER OF CEREMONIES (Anchor At CTV News Channel)

“Fight to End Cancer is an incredible initiative I am honoured to be a part of.  It’s mandate and those involved are not only raw and honest, but are truly an inspiration to what it means to battle cancer or to be along side someone who has.  These survivors are our Heroes and it’s important to celebrate their victory, but to also create the opportunity for more victories down the road!
Sadly we have all been touched by cancer, but through groups like Fight To End Cancer, we can work towards prevention and a cure.  I know what cancer does to a person and a family – I have experienced that loss first hand from losing colleagues, friends, and family.  I think of them every day and feel torn by the loss.  I also know I too can be a victim, but refuse to let it happen without a battle.  Cancer is a brutal killer that destroys everything around it and leaves the rest of us in fear.  But rather than being scared, let’s fight together….We will win together!” ~ More about Angie

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MARIELA BURKETT | OFFICIAL FTEC AMBASSADOR

Mariela is incredibly motivated and driven to helping out families with the mental, physical, and financial struggle that comes along with a cancer diagnosis.  She has lived through it herself and knows all about the fight that lasts through diagnosis, remission, and life after cancer.  She is committed to supporting others going through a similar fight.  Mariela took her passion for fitness, and her dedication to helping others, and created a “Survivor Bootcamp” fitness workshop.  She runs these bootcamps annually, with all proceeds going towards providing financial support to cancer fighters and their families. More about Mariela

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SHIREEN FABING | OFFICIAL AMBASSADOR | FTEC2013 FIGHTER

“Working in the corporate world, I always feel like I have my boxing gloves on, but on June 15th, 2013 I proudly “put ‘em up” to support cancer research through, what I believe, is a noble cause.  Jennifer Huggins and Kingsway Boxing is proof that we can all help in the Fight To End Cancer, so I am honored to be a fighter.  Like many, I’ve been robbed of loved ones and lived through the pain and suffering with victims, friends and colleagues who have experienced the same.  I dedicated my three rounds to loved ones lost, survivors and those still fighting this ruthless disease.” ~ More About Shireen

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TALIA | FTEC2019 FIGHTER

Talia is used to taking on tough challenges as an Immigration & refugee lawyer, but as an FTEC2019 fighter, she’s taking on the biggest one yet.  Not one to take her health for granted, Talia is stepping into the ring to use her good fortune to help raise funds to support the vital research of the doctors, chemists, and volunteers of The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. More About Talia

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CEILAGH MACDONALD | FTEC2019 FIGHTER

Ceilagh MacDonald works with clients every day who are struggling to come back from injury.  She sees first hand how hard they try, the good days and the not so good days.  She has seen this same fight in family and friends who have faced a cancer diagnosis.  Not one to step back from a challenge, FTEC2019 provides Ceilagh with the opportunity to punch cancer in the face and show what she’s made of. More About Ceilagh

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LISA VENTURA | FTEC2019 FIGHTER

Lisa Ventura is a CEO responsible for all aspects of her company; definitely a person comfortable being in charge, getting things done and making stuff happen.  Lisa is not comfortable feeling helpless, like she has when friends and loved ones have been diagnosed with cancer.  True to form, she has decided to do something about it by becoming a member of the FTEC 2019 fight team, raising funds and awareness on behalf of The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. More About Lisa

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RENATA REYNOLDS | FTEC2019 FIGHT TEAM

Renata Reynolds is committed to the success of her clients, helping them build winning sales teams and strategies, that result in real success.  She is also committed to taking a punch in the face to move one step closer to finding a cure for cancer.  Good news Renata, your opponent is committed to helping you with that challenge. More About Renata

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RACHEL MARTIN | FTEC ALUMNI

Rachel Martin, and her partner Patrick Balfour, started their journey with the Fight To End Cancer in 2013. They became involved with the cause as a way to give back to the community and fight a disease that had directly impacted their family. After many years standing strong in our corner, our team found ourselves in hers when Rachel was diagnosed personally in 2018. Follow Rachel’s Journey

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DAWN MILLAR | FTEC2018 FIGHTER

Every day Dawn Millar found her motivation to train for FTEC 2018 in the eyes of her children.  Dawn’s father passed away due to cancer at the age of 51, just months before the birth of her first child, who was his first grandchild.  Dawn felt like her life had ‘blown apart’ when she lost her Dad, but as an FTEC fighter she wants to prove that Defeat is Not an Option.  More About Dawn

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HEATHER MACDONALD | FTEC2018 FIGHTER

Heather MacDonald endured the agony of watching her father endure a two-year battle with soft-tissue sarcoma, which ended with his untimely passing in 2009.  Heather says her Dad fought harder than she knew was ‘humanly possible’.  Last year was Heather’s turn to mirror her father’s strength and determination, as she stepped into the ring as a 2018 FTEC fighter.  More About Heather

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CHRISTINA VATSIS | FTEC2018 FIGHTER

Christina Vatsis is no stranger to loss, or to the transformative power of giving back.  Christina lost her father to colon cancer in 2009, and witnessed her aunt’s intensive and debilitating treatments for breast cancer.  Christina is a prolific volunteer and she has previously donated her time to an orphanage in Africa and raised funds for a number of important charitable causes.  As an FTEC 2018 fighter, Christina channelled her talent toward her goal of raising funds for critical cancer research, that might have helped save her Dad.    A veteran flight attendant, Christina prides herself on being courteous and polite.  She maintained her signature smile with every punch that she landed on fight night. More About Christina

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ALISON TURNBULL | FTEC2018 FIGHTER

Like many of us, Alison Turnbull has been directly touched by cancer, losing her mother to the disease in 2016.  A veteran attendee of the annual Fight To End Cancer gala, Alison says she was motivated to become a fighter when she witnessed the level of commitment to training she saw in the FTEC team.  She was the most recent member in a long line of fighters coming from Eagle Professional Resources and was surprised to learn that scoring the W on fight night was to be included on her performance review. More about Alison

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LESLIE EHM | FTEC2015 FIGHTER & FTEC2018 PRESENTING PARTNER

“Everyone has a fight in life.  Some fight to be heard, some to go unnoticed, some to shine and some just to survive.  On May 30th, 2015, at 51 years of age, I got into the ring to fight.  It was a bucket list thing for me!  Anyone who knows me, knows I’ve been a fighter all of my life.  I always refer to it as ‘the good fight’ – the relentless pursuit of goodness and what’s ‘right’.  I try to fight that good fight every day.  But for one incredible night, I got to fight not just the ‘good fight’, but a super badass one as well.  Not only did I get to take on an opponent and go three rounds in a real amateur bout, (which is beyond cool), I also got to raise my fists against the evil that is cancer.  Because every drop of sweat, and every punch thrown and taken was  in solidarity with those who have faced the disease and won or lost and for everyone who loved those fighters.  For my Uncle Stevie, for my cousin Elli, for the grandmother I never met, for my friend Philip, for my friends – especially Dayna who is battling breast cancer today – family and a better future – this fight was for all of you.”

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ALLISON DELLANDREA | FTEC2017 FIGHTER

“In 2004, when I was six months pregnant with our third child, I received my diagnosis of advanced thyroid cancer.  I was told I needed immediate surgery to remove the tumour and affected lymph nodes, and that treatment would follow promptly after my baby’s birth.  Traces of the shock of that moment, and its impact on my whole family, still linger with me today.
Thanks to the treatment and ongoing care that I receive at The Princess Margaret, my story is now a happy one.  My son weathered the storm of our diagnosis and surgery like a true fighter, and arrived in the world smiling (… and hasn’t really stopped smiling since).  After treatment, and two more surgeries, I’m now in remission, and have the privilege of good health.  I’m not afraid of my cancer anymore.  My caregivers at PMH have taken care of this fear.  Now it’s my turn to support their work, so that they can help other patients whose fears are not relieved, and whose lives depend on their results.  ” ~ More about Allison

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KIM HAMILL | FTEC2017 FIGHTER

“In one form or another, we have all been affected by cancer.  I was privileged to be a part of the 2017 Fight To End Cancer and knew that the 6 months of training would be demanding, both physically and mentally.  My fight paled in comparison to the real fight a person diagnosed with cancer faces every second, of every day.  I’m committed to providing hope and being in their corner as we get one step closer to conquering cancer in our lifetime.”

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AMANDA GALLE | TGE2017 FIGHTER

“When I am asked what does the term cancer means to me, I say to you it is responsible for the loss of my grandfather Carmine, the pain my grandmother Paulina is suffering, and the refight my mom is undergoing.
The term cancer has caused opponents that I have faced to take recognition in defeating me in that ring, but it was not my opponents that beat me, it was the cancer around me.  The support I have extended to my family over and over has consumed so much of me.
The term cancer, is the reason I train physically 2- 4 hours everyday, to better myself mentally, so that emotionally I can guide and support my mother to victory!  I physically fight with my two hands.  Everything she has to go through physically, emotionally and spiritually, that I cannot overcome and fight for her.
So, I do this in honour of her.  I do this to execute the rage I feel.  I do this to be stable enough to endure it all, and most of all I do this in honour of those that it has defeated” ~ More about Amanda

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SARA HAGHIGHAT-JOO | TGE2017 FIGHTER

“I didn’t know my grandfather too well, but I did see my mother suffer from her father’s passing, due to cancer.  It was very hard to see her go through such pain.  I also saw legendary coach Adrian Teodorescu suffer from lymphoma last year and it left me feeling very hopeless.  It’s sad to see someone just fade away in front of your eyes and not be able to do anything for them.  Fight to End Cancer, to me, means that we continue to have this opportunity, to contribute to finding a cure.  I believe that as technology and research evolves, we will find a cure to beat this disease, and no longer allow it to leave our families and friends in pain.” ~ More about Sara

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JESSICA BRUGESS | TGE2017 FIGHTER

Jessica was born and raised in Sudbury Ontario and has been active all her life.  She has participated in activities like horseback riding, long range large bore target shooting and cross country running, to name just a few.  You might find her out on the trails, foraging for wild greens or practicing her photography, when she’s not in the gym.  She’s married to Lisa Lepage, a producer at CTV Sudbury.
Jessica was a member of the Breast Action Coalition of Sudbury, who’s mission was to centralize breast cancer screening and treatment, giving patients quicker, easier access to the services they require.  She was thrilled to be featured on the fight card at the inaugural Friday Night Fights ‘To End Cancer’ in 2017 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. More about Jessica

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SAMANTHA KRYSTANTOS | FTEC2016 FIGHTER

“I have personally been touched by this terrible disease, as I’m sure most of you reading this have as well.  My Father, Mitch, fought in the 2014 event.  My Uncle, Ryan, fought in 2015 and in 2016 I followed in their footsteps with the same exact goal in mind… to kick cancer’s butt!
Growing up as a little girl the word Cancer was always an open topic of conversation.  My dad was a volunteer at Sick Kids hospital for over 16 years. Through his experiences, he came home to talk to me about what it’s like being a part of an organization and helping others.  My father’s passion to help others left a mark on me growing up and I will continue to fight the disease until it no longer exists.” ~ More about Samantha

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NATASA JAMNIK-SOUSA | FTEC2016 FIGHTER

Natasa and her family have had countless loved ones affected by cancer – many surviving, some still fighting and unfortunately, three family members that lost their battle.  Natasa dedicated her fight to them in 2016.

“14 years ago I lost my sister to osteo sarcoma – the same type of cancer as Terry Fox.  She was my older and only sister.  The pain of experiencing such a loss at the young age of 17 is immeasurable.  Most recently my aunt lost the fight against cancer.  She was diagnosed with breast cancer and fought valiantly until her last breath.  My grandfather, unfortunately is another member of my family who I lost to cancer.”

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GEORGIA CURTIS | FTEC2015 FIGHTER

“I am excited and proud to have participated in the Fight To End Cancer 2015! Over the years I have paddled, run, and golfed in various fundraising efforts for cancer-related causes.  I know way too many people who have fought, or are fighting cancer…my guess is that you do too. I trained for five months and fundraised in preparation of my match on May 30th, 2015.  I stepped into the ring and fought like hell for an important cause.  This fight was for my pal Cindy Weeks.  She battled breast cancer and was cancer-free for years.  In 2008, cancer returned and since then, Cindy has lived with metastatic disease.  Her brave tenacity is both heroic and inspiring – she is the toughest fighter I know. She believes that breakthroughs will come, and that cancer can be beaten” ~ More about Georgia

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PAIGE CUNNINGHAM | FTEC2015 FIGHTER

“Everyone, in one way or another, has been, or will be affected by cancer. Personally, I have lost aunts and both of my grandfathers to this terrible disease. I have many loved ones who continue to fight with cancer and some who went through the cancer journey and came out on top.  Every fight is different.  My grandpa died of prostate cancer in 2000.  In 2005, I found out that my dad also had prostate cancer.  I immediately thought the worst as I had little knowledge of cancer as a whole.  My dad had a prostatectomy and THANKFULLY is coming up on his 10th year, CANCER FREE.  I feel so blessed and VERY lucky.  My hope for the future is that enough preventative measures will be in place so that NO ONE will have to face up against cancer EVER again.  The fight to end cancer is an uphill battle for everyone involved.  It is a group effort and without funds raised so researchers can work their magic, there would be no advancements made.” ~ More about Paige

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ERICA MCMASTER – FTEC2015 FIGHTER

“In the spring of 2014, my other half expressed his desire to apply to be one of the fighters for FTEC 2015 – naturally I was supportive and pretty quickly decided I wanted to go down the road together.  Several months later, I had no doubt that this journey would be one of the most physically and emotionally demanding to date, but also the most rewarding.  Cancer has affected most of us in some shape or form.
Personally, I lost my mother to the disease when I was just shy of my twelfth birthday; it goes without saying that her absence has had an enormous impact on my life.  I miss her every day.  Two of my grandparents have died from cancer and, just last year, a childhood friend at the age of 34.  Add to that the friends who have lost parents and loved ones – it’s too much.  Being a fighter in this incredible event gave me the chance to make a difference and punch cancer in the face on behalf of all those we’ve lost, and those who continue to fight it every day.  We are so fortunate to have the resources available to us that we do.”

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JANE WATSON | FTEC2014 FIGHTER

“One very small effort to advance the fight to find a cure for cancer in our lifetime –the Fight To End Cancer – was a chance to do just that and I am honoured to have had this opportunity.  I have watched too many people I dearly love fight cancer.  They have faced it head on with grace and courage. They are the true fighters.  As I trained, and the challenge got tougher, those who have battled cancer – family, friends and colleagues – were in my thoughts. It is their strength, as they endure each step of their journey, that truly inspired me to push on.  So, for all those I care so deeply about, who have looked cancer in the eye, those who continue to fight – you were my inspiration.  The Fight To End Cancer is an amazing opportunity to contribute to finding a cure for cancer in our lifetime.”

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DAWN RAMSAY-BROWN | FTEC2014 FIGHTER

“The Fight To End Cancer means a chance to fight for all the memories that still need to be made.  My daughter will never be able to look into her grandmother’s eyes and see her own, as cancer stole Judith Ramsay from us, before they could ever meet.  As we watch a close friend battling this disease today, I realize how hard we all must fight to protect the memories that are still to come.  It is such a privilege to wake up with a healthy body every day, that I wanted to put it to good use, for a great cause.”

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KATE HILLIER | FTEC2013 FIGHTER

It’s hard to “throw a stone” these days and not touch someone who has been affected in some way by cancer.  Personally, cancer is a reality that I have faced with my immediate family, my extended family, my friends and my community.  For all who have lost, have won and continue fighting, I was happy to throw on my gloves to fight for those in need.  I dedicated my fight in memory of my Tante Monique, who survived breast cancer, and to my partner in crime Marilyn.  “You never know how strong you are…until being strong is the only choice you have” ~ More about Kate

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KASSANDRA O’REILLY | FTEC2012 & TGE2017

“Unfortunately, cancer is a disease that touches us all in one way or another.  I know personally how it can affect you, having lost both of my grandparents due to lung cancer.  Sometimes feelings and life style changes caused by cancer can become very overwhelming.  This can leave us feeling sad, anxious, angry or even hopeless.  I believe that awareness is so important for those who are struggling – whether it’s you personally, your friends or family.
The fight to end cancer means fighting for those who cannot.  I am fighting to support the fighters, admire the survivors and honour the taken.  I would like to personally dedicate my fight to Coach David and Ainsley, who’s wives recently lost their battles, and to Dale and his wife who are currently fighting this horrible disease.
We are too positive to be doubtful, too optimistic to be fearful, and too determined to be defeated” More about Kassandra

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JANAYA KHAN | FTEC2012 FIGHTER

Janaya Khan, known as “the future in the Black Lives Matter movement”.  Janaya is a Black, queer, gender non-conforming activist, staunch Afro-futurist, social justice educator and boxer based in Toronto, Canada.  As the co-founder of Black Lives Matter Toronto, they are committed to Black liberation, transformative justice and indigenous sovereignty and operate through a Black trans-feminist lens.  She strongly believes, that the focus and determination that boxing requires, can be used as a tool of empowerment.

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About Fight To End Cancer…

The Fight To End Cancer (FTEC) is a year round initiative carried out by ambassadors, sponsors and volunteers worldwide. Funds raised by FTEC are donated directly to the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. Each year we celebrate the incredible hard work and dedication of our FTEC family with a black-tie charity boxing gala. This gala showcases 10 men and women who represent our Official Fight Team. More About Us or Join The Fight!

Media Contact:
Jennifer Huggins
Founder, Executive Director
Phone: +1.416.666.9314
Email address: jennifer@fighttoendcancer.com