Comfort Kits for CK Cancer Warriors! (Photo courtesy of Andre Cleroux/ via GoFundMe page.)Comfort Kits for CK Cancer Warriors! (Photo courtesy of Andre Cleroux/ via GoFundMe page.)
Chatham

Chatham man honours mother by bringing cheer to cancer patients

Several cancer patients across Chatham-Kent will receive holiday care baskets thanks to the fundraising efforts of a Chatham man.

Andre Cleroux started a GoFundMe page so that he could raise enough money to assemble baskets for Chatham-Kent residents who are fighting cancer. He said it all started as a way to honour his mother, who herself is battling breast cancer for the second time.

"It was pretty devastating news for us to hear this but my mom has kept her spirits up and she's very strong-willed that she is going to defeat cancer again, even at the age of 68," he said. "Ultimately, her positive attitude has led me to do something for her. My mom is very appreciative of people doing kind things for her but she would much rather see good gestures being done for others."

Andre Cleroux and Gisele Cleroux at their first appointment to find out about Gisele's chemotherapy treatment on November 26th, 2019. (Photo courtesy Andre Cleroux) Andre Cleroux and Gisele Cleroux at their first appointment to find out about Gisele's chemotherapy treatment on November 26th, 2019. (Photo courtesy Andre Cleroux)

Cleroux said comfort kits for "CK Cancer Warriors" will include items such as note pads, sanitizer, tea, gift cards, blankets, and mints. He said it's all to keep people's spirits up while they battle a very tough disease.

"I think you need to know that other people in the community -- your family, your friends, and neighbours -- are there to support you through a tough journey," said Cleroux. "I wanted to bring items to people so they don't have to worry and can focus on themselves in healing through this process."

Some kid-friendly items will also be added to some of the baskets. Cleroux mentioned that although most children who have cancer are treated in London, there are adults in Chatham-Kent who have young loved ones.

"I want to be able to give items to those that are going through this treatment to help ease that conversation or ease the sadness or struggles children may go through while visiting at the hospital," he said.

Cleroux originally set a goal to raise $1,000 but in less than five hours, he said they surpassed that goal. After bumping up the campaign goal a couple more times, Cleroux settled at $5,000. As of Friday afternoon, the $5,000 goal had been reached, however, Cleroux said they're still accepting donations.

He said the generosity from the community has "honestly" surprised him.

"I'm blown away by the support I have received so far from everyone around me and in this community. I'm very grateful and I know my mom is too," said Cleroux.

In the meantime, Cleroux had set personal goals associated with every campaign goal they were able to reach through the GoFundMe page. After reaching the $1,000 goal, he scheduled an appointment to shave his head on Monday. After reaching $2,500, he agreed to dress up as an elf and have Santa join him in delivering the comfort kits. With the $3,500 milestone, some of Cleroux's friends agreed to shave their heads and facial hair as well. Finally, after reaching the $5,000 goal, Cleroux will take some time off work to volunteer at the hospital's cancer ward for a couple of days.

"Whether it's cleaning or serving lunches or playing cards or chitchatting -- whatever it is, I'm going to take some time out of my busy schedule during the holidays and spend some time that's needed for those that are in the hospital," he said.

Volunteers will start shopping for items next week to get an idea of how many kits they'll be able to hand out. Although the final goal is set for $5,000, Cleroux said they will still accept donations after the fact. Anyone who wants to help can also reach out to Cleroux through the GoFundMe page to help with the kit assembly and delivery.

Since it is such a worthwhile cause and the community has been so supportive, Cleroux said he plans on making this an annual initiative.

-With files from Allanah Wills

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