Women in Insurance Cancer Crusade inspires at annual breakfast event

Attendees at this year’s WICC Annual Breakfast received an intimate glimpse into the life and challenges faced by Carley Elle Allison, an 18-year-old girl afflicted with a very rare form of sarcoma cancer that had formed on her trachea. The breakfast took place Nov. 6 at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto, Ont.

 

Allison shared information on her challenges, how she got through them, and inspiration for those who are similarly afflicted. Her story was presented through a question and answer session.

 

Barb Reddick of PBO Insurance has served on the WICC board for the last four years, and has been involved in a volunteer capacity for longer. Her daughter is also one of Allison’s best friends, making Reddick a natural fit as an interviewer.

 

“I’ve known Carley for about 10 years,” says Reddick. “She’s such an inspirational young woman, you can’t help but find yourself saying ‘I’m not too tired’ to get out there and help.”

 

Allison has the sort of energy and drive that would inspire anyone. Her cancer is now in remission, but her radiation treatment has been complete for less than three weeks. No one would begrudge her a little time off, but instead Allison competed in a figure skating championship over the weekend.

 

“I tried to help convey through our discussion, the drive and stamina and that helped get her through, and I think we did that,” says Reddick.

 

Supreme Collision Centres is the National Platinum level sponsor for WICC and has been a long time supporter of the organization. Supreme’s President Marty Reddick was in attendance at the breakfast.

 

“I think it was a great format, to have her up on stage for an informal chat about her experience and everything she has gone through,” says Marty. “Carley is also a singer, and the operation damaged her vocal cords. They showed us a video of a song she wrote and performed. It was very powerful.”

 

WICC raises funds for cancer research through a number of events throughout the year, including an annual golf tournament, gala dinner and various regional events. WICC is staffed entirely by volunteers, with 100 percent of funds raised going directly to research.

 

For more information, please visit wicc.ca.