Let’s Talk Cancer partners with Canadian Cancer Society to inspire educators and youth across Canada
Our Program
Let’s Talk Cancer was established in Toronto in 2016 by Let’s Talk Science and the Canadian Cancer Society’s (CCS) Research Information Outreach Team (RIOT) to inspire the next generation of cancer researchers.
Let’s Talk Cancer is a series of full-day, on-campus symposiums that connect high school students with researchers to explore leading-edge issues and topics regarding the use of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) as an integral part of cancer research.
The day includes seminars from research professionals along with a variety of activities designed to involve students with a hands-on understanding of how STEM contributes to advancements in cancer research. The students engage in discussions that link classroom theory with practical problems and real-world issues.
Students have the opportunity to interact both with like-minded peers and with Let’s Talk Science volunteers, who share their interest for STEM related topics.
This year, students will learn about advances in technology and detection methods used to improve diagnosis and treatment.
Extend the Experience
The Relay for Life Youth program is the fastest growing program within the Canadian Cancer Society. It offers a way for students to fundraise for cancer research and support services for Canadians affected by cancer.
"Let's Talk Cancer is an opportunity to show students what is being accomplished in the world of cancer research and how those achievements have a direct correlation to the money that is being raised through Relay For Life Youth,” says Relay For Life Youth National Director Laurie McKnight.
“They leave the day motivated and eager to change the face of cancer and with a greater understanding of how their fundraising is saving lives."
There are 235 Relay for Life Youth events across Canada right now, with around 60 of the events taking place in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). They became a full, nation-wide program this year, with staff stationed all across the country.
Learn more about bringing a Relay For Life Youth event to your school
Our Impact
Let’s Talk Cancer is touching many lives and having a big impact. High school students and teachers anonymously gave feedback from our various symposiums - this is what they had to say:
Student from McMaster session:
“I love how passionate these people are about what they are researching because it really shows when they do their presentations. Even though I may not have understood all of it, I had a blast learning about this!”
Student from Windsor session:
“My favourite part was learning about Jeff’s experience with cancer and what steps he took to overcome it and stay positive!”
Student from Western session:
“I enjoyed doing the labs. Being hands-on at a real university was awesome.”
Teacher from Western session:
“This makes me want to go back to school and learn more!! Excellent learning opportunity; really enjoyed the day & learned lots. Students had a great time & many discussed a possible interest in pharmacology/genetics/biochem in future studies.”
Our Events
There are nine Let’s Talk Cancer events happening this year across Canada: Windsor, Kingston, London, Hamilton, two in Toronto, Ottawa, and Calgary.
The University of Windsor already held their third annual Let’s Talk Cancer symposium series on February 21, 2019. Students who participated had the opportunity to learn about the cutting-edge cancer research happening in Windsor-Essex and interacted with cancer researchers and medical professionals who treat cancer patients in the region.