As a parent, when your child is diagnosed with cancer your whole life changes dramatically. Nothing matters more than ensuring your child becomes well again and your every waking and sleeping moment is focused on their healing.

The most pivotal element in the lives of young cancer patients during this trying period is CHEO. Each individual we came into contact with at this special place is also focused on making our children well again. Their support and advice, the care and special little things they do and, most importantly, their love is absolutely invaluable. You can honour this dedication by participating or contributing to Tour Nortel 2008.

Despite the pain and suffering associated with 10 months of intensive cancer treatment, my 13-year-old daughter Kayla fondly remembers her numerous CHEO hospital stays. She has wonderful memories of her favourite nurses, her treatment coordinator and doctors. These individuals showered her with caring attention, skillful service and love.

On May 4, 2008, Kayla will be joined on the Dream Team by cancer patients Hannayah and Charles. Now, how can you pay tribute to that gift of these very special children being so well-cared for in such a remarkable place?

It's easy... Get involved in this year's Tour Nortel which takes place on Sunday, May 4th at the Nortel Carling Campus. Folks are smiling, the energy is electric and it is a day of good fun. You can stroll along the pleasant scenery, in-line skate or cycle in one of the tours. There are super on- site family activities, games and food for young and old. Bring the family, friends and encourage everyone to come out because they will not regret it.

I invite you to explore the Tour Nortel web site where you will find information about the event and how you can register - as an individual, with your family and friends or with your Ottawa Citizen Corporate Challenge team. For more information, please call the Tour Nortel hotline at 613-765-TOUR (8687). Your support will not only help our CHEO kids but also will benefit Ronald McDonald House and CandleLighters.

Gina Wilson