Agency holding ‘Minute to Win It’ event for research on pediatric cancer

The local chapter of the Canadian Cancer Society is holding a fundraiser on Jan. 28 to raise funds to support pediatric cancer research.

For Tyler Linker, who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) nearly seven years ago, the event is of special interest. Just three and a half when he began taking medications, blood transfusions and numerous trips to the hospital with fevers and checkups, Linker missed a lot of school in the first two years.

"We think he knew he had to take his medicine to get better," said his mother, Kerry Linker, who adds that yearly checkups in London are part of the current routine. "We are all so proud of him, he is a real trooper and he likes to share his story with others.”

Tyler now volunteers with the Canadian Cancer Society in many capacities, especially when the office needs help at a Legionnaires game or a childhood cancer representative.

He has been for several years a participant at Relay For Life Sarnia with the Tyler’s Troopers team and he has also walked the Survivor’s Victory Lap.

Tyler is the organization's "Minute To Win It" spokesperson and the face of pediatric cancers. The event will be held at St Patrick’s High School.

For more information or to register e-mail Paula McKinlay or call (519) 332-0042.

Tags: Canadian Cancer Society, City of, minute to win it, pediatric cancer fundraiser, Sarnia