Momentum builds for Toronto East General Hospital's Prostate Cancer Program

TORONTO, Nov. 20, 2012 /CNW/ - Building on the momentum of W. Brett Wilson's $1M Challenge in support of the Robotic Prostate Cancer Program and Redevelopment Campaign, Toronto East General Hospital (TEGH) Foundation is pleased to report that Urologist Dr. Rajiv Singal is also leading the way nationally in the Movember campaign.

Demonstrating his leadership in prostate cancer awareness and treatment, Dr. Singal's passion is evident in his participation in the Movember campaign where his TEGH team is currently ranked first across Canada and 16th overall.  As an individual competitor, Dr. Singal, longtime Head of the division of urology and current Lead of the surgical robotics program, ranks third across the country.

It is this type of dedication that W. Brett Wilson, the former CBC Dragon Den's celebrity, recants.  "I became ill with radiation-induced renal cystitis and was rushed to Toronto East General Hospital for what I would say was a very personal and life-threatening experience. TEGH saved my life." Added W. Brett Wilson, now hosting Risky Business on Slice.  "As a very fortunate prostate cancer "graduate", I admire and respect Toronto East General Hospital's critical vision to be a leader in men's health and I'm extremely proud to lend my support."

W. Brett Wilson has donated $100,000 towards TEGH and is openly challenging others to give to raise $1M dollars for TEGH's prostate cancer program and its Redevelopment Campaign.

Under Dr. Singal's leadership, the Hospital has invested significantly into the robotic surgery program that will establish TEGH as the training ground for the next generation of robotic surgeons.   Dr. Singal is also championing prostate awareness and research by raising funds through the Movember campaign as he positions the Hospital as a definitive leader in men's health.

Thanks to donors and a partnership with Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, TEGH's recent acquisition of the revolutionary da Vinci System, aka "The Robot" provides patients with the latest in Minimally Invasive Surgical technology. It enhances an already exceptional program and enables surgeons to dramatically change the experience for prostate cancer patients.

"We hope the W. Brett Wilson Challenge will inspire champions to match his gift and support to Toronto East General Hospital as we transform care for men with prostate cancer," added Michael Burns, Chair of the TEGH Foundation.

Wilson's recent gift and Dr. Singal's success are well-timed in a month where prostate cancer is high on the radar.  At an alarming rate, one in seven Canadian men will develop prostate cancer during their lifetime and an aging population is pushing these rates even higher. The good news is that prostate cancer is one of the most treatable types of cancer and new research, technology and surgical techniques are bringing better outcomes for prostate cancer patients.

About Toronto East General Hospital:
Toronto East General Hospital (TEGH) has been proudly serving the community of East Toronto since 1929, when it opened its doors as a 110-bed general hospital. Over the years TEGH has continually renewed its commitment to the community it serves. Today TEGH is a large, urban, full-service community teaching hospital, providing comprehensive care to a diverse population of 400,000, representing over 45 cultural and linguistic groups. TEGH boasts Centres of Excellence in Thoracic Surgery, Family Medicine Residency Program, and Progressive Ventilation Weaning among its leadership programs.

About the TEGH Capital Redevelopment Campaign:
TEGH has received final approval for redevelopment from the Government of Ontario and the City of Toronto. TEGH Foundation is currently in the midst of a $60 million private sector campaign to raise funds for the Hospital's $211-million redevelopment project. More than $50 million has been raised to-date.  The most significant component of the campaign is the Ken and Marilyn Thomson Patient Care Centre that will improve access and infection control.

In the month of "Movember", which raises awareness for prostate cancer, Dr. Rajiv Singal, current Lead of the surgical robotics program at TEGH, would be pleased to speak with members of the media about the challenges with prostate cancer and what citizens can do to help tackle this deadly disease. Arrangements can be made by contacting Justin Van Dette at 416-659-3870 or by e-mail at [email protected]

W. Brett Wilson is available to discuss the donation/challenge with interested parties. If you would like to speak with W. Brett Wilson, please contact Teresa Vasilopoulos, President of Toronto East General Hospital Foundation, at 416-500-2384 or by e-mail at [email protected]

SOURCE: Toronto East General Hospital