MOHCCN Operational Meeting brings Network members together in Toronto

On October 23-24, 109 members of the Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network– including patients, researchers, clinicians, administrators and donors from across the country–gathered in Toronto for our annual Operational Meeting.

Representing ten provinces and more than 20 institutions, participants reflected on the achievements and challenges of Phase 1 and shared their vision for Phase 2 and beyond. 

The weekend began with a closed-door session of the Patient Working Group, whose members play a vital leadership role in shaping the Network’s mandate and priorities. Their perspectives help guide the Network’s activities and funding decisions, ensuring that the voices and experiences of patients remain central to its work. 

Before the meeting began, attendees joined Darrell Fox for a Terry Fox Run through downtown Toronto, a tradition that reminds us of Terry’s vision and the shared effort required to finish it.

The meeting opened with remarks from Patient Working Group Chair Dr. Dora Cavallo-Medved, followed by MOHCCN Managing Director Isabel Serrano, who outlined the vision for Phase II and how the Consortia plan to translate it into action.

Throughout the day, presenters and panelists reflected on the Network’s progress to date, explored key priorities and challenges, and shared perspectives on the work ahead as MOHCCN moves into its next phase:

• Expanding the Gold Cohort: Exploring the initiatives, challenges, and opportunities related to promoting GenerationALL and expanding the Network and the diversity of patients in the Gold Cohort.
• New Technologies: Discussions of molecular technologies beyond WGTA for consideration in Phase 2.
• Patient Working Group: Exploring the important role of the PWG within the MOHCCN, celebrating their key accomplishments from Phase 1, and outlining priorities and opportunities for Phase 2.
• Data Management & Governance: Exploring opportunities, challenges, and solutions related to external data sharing outside of the Network. 

The meeting concluded with an engaging keynote on equity in cancer research by Terry Fox Research Institute Board Member Sema Burney, followed by powerful closing remarks from Patient Working Group member Kathy Palmer. Both offered a meaningful note to end the day, reinforcing the importance of equity and patient perspectives in shaping the future of cancer research.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this year’s meeting, whether joining us in Toronto or supporting from across Canada. Your insights, questions, and perspectives powered our discussions, strengthened our connections, and helped build momentum for the work ahead.

Together, in the spirit of collaboration and dedication, we’ve built something truly extraordinary. This gathering was a powerful step into our next phase and prepared us to continue forward with renewed purpose.

Terry Fox started this marathon 46 years ago. Together, we can finish it!