Alberta Health Services (AHS) in Calgary has announced a C$50 million ($37 million) gift from the Arthur J.E. Child Foundation in support of the Calgary Cancer Centre. 

The largest philanthropic gift in AHS’s history will help support the center’s efforts in the areas of precision oncology and clinical excellence and help it to attract and retain staff as well as capitalize on opportunities to bring new treatments and research initiatives to the area. Scheduled to open in 2024, the center will be renamed the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre in recognition of the gift.

“At the foundation, we’re looking for significant projects that can continue the legacy of Mr. Child in a way that he would be proud of as it serves people, improves science, and generally improves the lives of the people that were in his community,” said Lorne Jacobson, vice chair and co-founder of TriWest Capital Partners and lead trustee of the Arthur J.E. Child Foundation. “We thought that the cancer center was a unique opportunity to do that…it was a perfect match.”

“As an advocate for perpetual advancements in science and specifically medicine, Mr. Child was committed to supporting causes that will make a significant difference through research,” said Jacobson. “This $50 million donation closely aligns with Mr. Child’s commitment to accelerate cancer care and research, not only in Alberta, but to help defeat cancer at every level around the world.” 

(Photo credit: Getty Images/dusanpetkovic)