The Rocca Sisters Blog

Two Causes Close to Our Hearts: World Cancer Day and Heart Month

World Cancer Day

In Canada, nearly 1 in 2 Canadians expected to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, and our family has been likewise impacted by this deadly disease. In May of 2004, our remarkable mom, Joan, was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer by chance during a routine checkup. Like most women who suffer from Ovarian Cancer, even when detected early, only 50% of them have a year to live. Mom’s cancer was already at stage 3 to 4. In true character, with her great determination and strong faith she fought hard for five years and gave us her best.

Every year on February 4, people across the globe unite to raise awareness and take action for World Cancer Day. Please consider donating to or volunteering your time with the Canadian Cancer Society, who support those living with a cancer diagnosis, and their families, as well as funding game-changing research into more than 100 types of cancer a coast-to-coast cancer information helpline to make sure that no one has to face cancer alone.

Heart Month:

Like millions of Canadians, we have been touched by the impact of heart health; in 2017 we lost our beloved father, Pat Rocca, to heart disease. February is Heart Month, a time to bring attention to the importance of cardiovascular health, and what we can to reduce our risk of cardiovascular disease. Heart disease affects approximately 2.4 million Canadian adults, and is the second leading cause of death in Canada. We can all reduce our risk of heart disease by making healthy lifestyle choices, including quitting smoking, eating a healthy and balanced diet, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels. “Our dad taught us about the importance of family, friends, loyalty and perspective, says Tanya. “To never be short-sighted and to always communicate.” In that spirit, we ask you to please join us in spreading awareness and understanding of the causes, symptoms, and prevention of this devastating disease. Together, let’s take action to improve our heart health.

Please join us Feb 22 6pm-9pm at Burlington’s Rockin’ Jump Indoor Trampoline Park for their 2nd-year-anniversary party. Jumping is FREE, but come jump for a good cause and help us support the Heart & Stroke Foundation!