Gift aids brain research

Calgary business leader Clark H. Smith died from brain cancer four years ago. His wife Jane Smith and son Tony Smith recently honoured his memory with a $3-million gift in support of brain tumour research at the University of Calgary Faculty of Medicine.

“Brain cancer is a devastating disease. Most people survive only one year after being diagnosed,” says Dr. Peter Forsyth, director, Clark H. Smith Integrative Brain Tumour Research Centre. “Our dream is to accelerate discoveries leading to cures for brain cancer, and apply what we learn to other cancers as well. This new centre is an important foundational step in realizing that dream.”

Dr. Grant Gall, dean, Faculty of Medicine, called the donation a “monumental gift” to the university’s brain cancer research program. “We are so fortunate that our community leaders and their families are passionate about creating the future of health. This passion has generated momentum, transforming our vision for medical research into a lasting legacy.”

The Clark H. Smith Integrative Brain Tumour Research Centre is designed around a “system of discovery” in which scientific questions are driven by the medical experiences of people with brain cancer. It brings together the world-renowned research programs of two physician-scientists: Dr. Peter Forsyth and Dr. Greg Cairncross.

“ We believe in this research program and we know Calgary is the right place to do it,” says Tony Smith.

“ We have huge faith that the work of Dr. Forsyth and his colleagues will benefit people with brain cancer here in our community, across the country and around the world.”