Mike Elgie
Our 18 year-old son was diagnosed with an astrocytoma in his cerebellum, which affected his balance. In total, he had six neurosurgeries in fifteen months. We would often take him to the cafeteria of whatever hospital (of three) he was in for his favourite treat of ice cream. He was a familiar figure there – tall, red hair often in tufts from being shaved, with stitches hanging out sometimes. He arrived at first in a wheelchair, then with a walker, and eventually a cane and wobbly walk. I brought in this hat to cover his many scars and to make his appearance, to me, more "normal." He would not wear it. He told me his scars did not embarrass him. They were his battle wounds as he called them. He felt he had been chosen to do battle because he was so strong. I once asked him if he ever got angry like I did. He said, "No, I just get bored." He gave the battle his all for fifteen months. He knew when he had fought long enough. Mike’s battle ended October 8, 2001. This hat represents to us his courage and strength and was one of his favourites. His dad and I are pleased to include it in the tour. – Marg & David Elgie.
Norman Elliott
There was always a cap or hat on Norman's head when he went out the door. He had caps from Newfoundland to Vancouver Island, as he was able to travel by car, cost-to-coast following his surgery in 1990. But he was happiest seated on his lawn mowing tractor, with his green Pioneer (TM) cap on his head!
Susan Fehr
Mom was diagnosed with a brain tumour on May 26th, 2004. When I see this hat I think about Mom having a great day at the beach. This hat reminds me of my mom at the beach wearing her matching capris. Love you mom - Annie. This hat reminds me of my mom because it is from Suzy Shier. Mom loves that store and they share the same name - Love Meg. This hat reminds me of my mom because it is bright and vibrant just like her - Andrew. I love you mommy - Rebecca.
My husband Ross Forfar passed away September 1, 2005 from a glioblastoma. Ross had a 36 year career with the Scarborough Fire Department and at the time of retirement was Deputy Chief. Tom Powell, former Chief of the Scarborough Department and many other colleagues organized a golf tournament in Ross’ memory. Funds raised support cancer research.
Ruth Marie Fernandez
Just one of the many lovely hats worn by Ruthie.
 This hat belongs to Brain Fox.
Irona Fraser
It was 16 years ago that I was first diagnosed with a brain tumour. I feel very fortunate to still be a survivor.
Mitchell Thomas Joseph Fraser
February, 15 1991 – April 30, 2003
On January 21st, Mitch was diagnosed with anaplastic astrocytoma brain tumour. The same day it was discovered he was in surgery within 6 hours to remove it. The surgery removed 95%+ of the tumour. He spent 3 days in the ICU and was moved to another wing at the hospital. Mitch left the hospital on February 3rd and went home awaiting dates to start treatment. Mitch went through 6 weeks of radiation, graduating with a certificate, then started oral chemo. Through all these treatments, Mitch had time to tease the nurses, check for wedding rings and tease poor Annie pooh about her hissy fit! With all the efforts the Doctors and Nurses made at the hospital, the treatments did not work. Two tumours were discovered on November 14, 2002 and he was given just weeks to live because the tumours were very aggressive. Despite the news, we tried yet another form of oral chemo. Mitch lived life to the fullest enjoying Christmas, his 12th birthday and even Easter with the help of pediatric palliative care, his VON nurses and his PCA pump (that he tried to get rid of by throwing it in the toilet). He was even able to drive his 4 wheeler just a week before passing away. Unfortunately, on April 30th, in the wee hours of the morning, Mitch lost his 15 month battle with cancer. Mitch was now free. During most of Mitch’s treatments he almost always wore a hat with a smile. Sometimes he didn’t mind showing his bald spots. He said his hair was his sacrifice to getting better. Mitch’s trademark was always a sports hat of some kind. He loved his 4 wheeler, fast cars, WWE and of course the Trailer Park Boys. He always had a rainbow in his drawings somewhere. The hat Mitch is wearing in the picture is from a motor cross he went to while he was undergoing treatment. Mitchell has taught us so much in his short life. The skill of courage, the art of compassion…a glimpse of what an angel looks like. Mitchell always had encouraging words for someone. He got me through some rough times and still does. He always said to me, “Don’t worry mom. I’m okay.”
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À 2003 Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada 1.800.265.5106
Charitable Registration #BN118816339RR0001 |