Cancer Society calendar features Faces of Cancer

Sterling Johnston is December 2012's 'Face to Remember' - Michael J. Brethour photo

Prince Edward County’s Sterling Johnston is one of a dozen ‘Faces of Cancer’ on a fundraising calendar created by award winning photojournalist Michael J. Brethour.
Prince Edward Hastings Canadian Cancer Society unit manager Heather Gray and fund raiser coordinator Sue Rollins welcomed Brethour’s idea and moved quickly to help complete the project in time for Christmas giving. Local cancer survivors were photographed and shared their personal battles with cancer in a video to be included in a multi media project.
“This project was first suggested only nine weeks ago,” said Rollins. “It is an incredible accomplishment to have found local people whose lives have been so touched by this disease, to be a part of this project, then do the photo shoots, hear and record their stories and craft an incredibly powerful calendar, and go to print in that short time! Nothing short of amazing.”
The project was completed at no cost to the Canadian Cancer Society as local businesses and MP Todd Smith sponsored the printing costs.
Photographed in black and white, the only colour presence is of the Canadian Cancer Society’s signature flower, the daffodil.
“The images are hard hitting, tender and emotionally moving,” said Brethoour. “This project was conceived with the true precepts of photojournalism in mind, the pure unaltered story and raw human element. Getting to know each of my subjects and hearing the triumph, tragedy and despair of their fight with cancer has truly humbled me as a man; father and human being, leaving a poignant reminder of why I first hoisted a camera to begin with…to bear witness the triumphs and tragedies of the human spirit. This project is photojournalism in its purist form.”
With the inaugural print run of 3,000 copies, the potential revenue is 30,000.
Funds raised will help the Society provide funds to research, peer support, information on cancer and prevention through the Cancer Information Service and Smokers Helpline and the no-client-cost transportation program.
“Cancer is a disease that touches many of those in our community. There are sad and wondrous stories to be shared. It is important to the Society that we support those living with cancer and the funds from this amazing calendar will support many projects,” said Rollins.
Calendars are $10 at the Canadian Cancer Society located at 97 Hannah Court South, Belleville; at the A&W restaurant on Bell Boulevard and McDougall Insurance located in Century Place. More retail locations are being sought; contact the local unit at 613-962-0686.