grey ribbonWearing a grey ribbon during the month of May demonstrates and spreads brain tumour awareness.

Grey in May to encourage brain cancer awareness

The “Go Grey in May” cause is close to her heart, says Karen Metcalfe, co-ordinator of the Windsor Cancer Research Group and organizer of an associated walk to raise funds and awareness in the fight against brain tumours.

Her daughter Mckenna was diagnosed with a brain tumour at the age of four years old. Now 14 years old, she is a proud spokesperson for the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada.

Metcalfe notes others on campus have felt the impact of the disease, including psychologist Mary Anne Johnston, who died in July 2018, and professor Alan Scoboria, who died in April 2019.

“We want to take a day to remember those we have lost, support those who need it, and raise awareness,” Metcalfe says.

A national campaign encourages people to wear grey apparel or a grey ribbon during the month of May. Campus organizers will host an event at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 22, in the CAW Student Centre Commons.

“We’d love to have people take 30 minutes out of their day, wear grey, and join us,” says Metcalfe. “It’s a small commitment with a big impact.”

The Brain Tumour Walk Windsor is set for Saturday, June 8, starting at the Riverside Sportsmen Club. A new team this year will honour Dr. Johnston’s memory. Learn more, register to join, or make a donation on the foundation’s website.