A local woman has earned a prestigious award for raising over $265,000 for CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.
Paige Procter of Grosse Isle received a Meritorious Service Decoration (civil division) conferred by Gov.-Gen. Mary Simon. This award recognizes great Canadians for exceptional deeds accomplished over a limited time that bring honour to our country.
These innovative activities set an example for others to follow or improve the quality of life in a community.
The civil Meritorious Service Decoration is part of the Canadian Honours System and is one of the highest distinctions a Canadian civilian can receive.
With an inclination to help others, Procter founded the Coffeehouse to End Cancer fundraising concert 14 years ago to honour a dear family friend, Gord Harris and his dad, Grandpa Jim. Since then, the event has raised more than $265,000 for the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.
“It is a very humbling honour and one I could not accept without recognizing the entire village behind me that it took for us to get here celebrating and honouring 14 years of raising money for cancer research in Manitoba through the talent of amazing local artists, dedicated and passionate volunteers, bakers and local businesses who generously donate and support us every year,” said Procter, who welcomed a baby boy on Tuesday, Aug. 13.
The 14th annual Coffeehouse to End Cancer will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 28, at Grosse Isle Heritage Site. The site opens at 6:30 p.m., and the concert starts at 7 p.m. Admission is by cash, cheque, or debit donation at the event. Alternatively, donations can be made online through the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation event page by visiting support.cancercarefdn.mb.ca and searching under community events for “Coffeehouse to End Cancer.”
Donations greater than $15 will receive a tax refund. All proceeds will be donated to general cancer research in Manitoba. Local businesses donating $100 or more will be recognized at the show.
“This year, we have a great lineup of new and returning artists alike, great local vendors, homemade dainties for purchase and Roasts and Toasts coffee trailer on site,” said Procter, who works as a nurse.
“We also have very special guests Two Crows for Comfort returning from their North American tour to perform at the show.”
Other entertainment includes Lexi Schmidt and Daisy, Jasmine Henry, Apple Fire, the King brothers and Teagan Sheppard. Jamie Yeo, a long-time friend of the Coffeehouse to End Cancer, will also make her debut on the stage this year.
A special part of the Coffeehouse is having survivors, loved ones and CancerCare team members share their stories on stage. This year, author Erika Willows will share her story about how her family navigated grief after the loss of her sister’s courageous battle with cancer. Willows will also have copies of her book, Something to Remember Me By, for sale, with proceeds going to Cancer Research in Manitoba.
Last year’s event raised an impressive $33,885.45. This year, Procter hopes to surpass her fundraising goal of $20,000.
Anyone who wants to donate baking for the event can text Jo-Anne Procter at 204-781-4637 to make arrangements. Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Paige Procter at 204-461-4504.
Check out Coffeehouse to End Cancer on Facebook and Instagram to learn more.
Tribune File Photos
