By / Jessica Kirby
The BCICA Golf Tournament, held annually in support of mesothelioma screening and research, was another resounding success this May. Thanks for BCICA members’ generous sponsorship, donations, and willingness to spend the day supporting the worthy cause, the association raised another $ $97,435.84. Since its inception, the golf tournament has raised more than $700,000 to support the groundbreaking work of Dr. Stephen Lam, Dr. Renelle Myers, and colleagues at BC Cancer as they research the early detection of mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Research in Western Canada
In 2007, Andre Pachon decided it was time to establish a mesothelioma screening and research program in BC. He knew too well the loss of a mentor to mesothelioma and, after seeing these programs elsewhere, decided it was time for change.
“I knew they were doing this kind of research in Ontario, and I thought if they can do it there, they can do it in the West,” he said.
Pachon launched the first annual BCICA Mesothelioma Research Fundraiser Golf Tournament, that year. It attracted 34 golfers and raised $7,000, which was placed in an account under the name, the Western Canadian Mesothelioma Fund.
“We did three more tournaments and each of them raised money, but we still had to find somewhere to donate it,” he said.
Pachon researched doctors and facilities and, through a series of connections, met Dr. Stephen Lam at BC Cancer who agreed to take on this project. By this time, the golf tournament was an annual event and the BCICA was able to hand over a $100,000 cheque to get the program started.
“In 2013 we gave another $100,000,” said Pachon.
Since then, the tournament has grown year over year, with limited space and selling out each time.
Lung Health Pilot Program
Dr. Lam and Dr. Renelle Meyers are conducting a Lung Health Check Pilot program using low dose CT scans to screen eligible individuals for lung cancer.
If you are between the ages 45-74 (women) or 50-74 (men) and have never vaped or smoked more than 100 cigarettes in your lifetime, please scan the QR code to check your eligibility for this study. The study comprises a questionnaire, a breath sample and a low dose CT scan.
Andre Pachon Honoured
Without the BCICA Golf Tournament donations, there would be no mesothelioma research in Western Canada, and without Andre’s initiative, the golf tournament may never have been established. This was the message Dr. Lam delivered at the 2024 tournament when he presented Pachon with a commemorative plaque and recognition for his unwavering commitment to the cause.
Thank you, Andre, for your support and determination!
For more information or to donate in support of mesothelioma screening and research, please email Andre Pachon at candginsulation@shawbiz.ca. ▪
