Toronto East General Hospital Doctor is the Top Fundraiser for Movember in Ontario

Urologist Dr. Rajiv Singal puts daily commitment into campaign action to support prostate cancer, to raise second highest amount raised in the country

TORONTO, Nov. 30, 2012 /CNW/ - On the final day in Movember, Toronto East General Hospital (TEGH) Foundation extends congratulations to one of their own, Urologist Dr. Rajiv Singal for his inspirational campaign that led to his number one fundraiser status in Ontario and second in Canada, raising over $42,000, in support of the fight against prostate cancer.

Dr. Singal, the head of TEGH's division of urology and also leader of the hospital's surgical robotics program, demonstrated his leadership in prostate cancer awareness by putting his everyday professional commitment into humorous action for public good.  He completed the challenge, moustache intact.

"After a three-year hiatus, I jumped passionately into the Movember campaign, in support of our patients, and for the public awareness for the important cause," said Dr. Singal. "Urologists, of course, treat prostate cancer on a daily basis and often in a very profound way, so it's natural to take leadership in this fundraising initiative."

Under Dr. Singal's leadership, the Hospital has invested significantly into the robotic surgery program that is establishing TEGH as the training ground for the next generation of robotic surgeons. Thanks to donors and a partnership with Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, TEGH's recent acquisition of the revolutionary da Vinci System, also known as "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.

"As the month has progressed I have been overwhelmed by the support, and it has reinforced why I think we should lead the way," added Dr. Singal. "If the goal is to promote awareness for both the disease and the clinical programs available through our healthcare system, then a first place finish just means we are that much closer to that goal."

The achievements of Dr. Singal are well-timed in a month when another initiative in support of prostate cancer was launched at TEGH--the W.Brett Wilson Challenge, where successful entrepreneur and prostate cancer graduate Wilson, donated $100,000 to TEGH, challenging others to contribute towards a one-million dollar goal.

An alarming 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 (like those afforded by TEGH's da Vinci Robot) 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.

SOURCE: Toronto East General Hospital