SASKATCHEWAN MAN RECEIVES NATIONAL HONOUR

A Saskatchewan cancer patient is receiving the Canadian Cancer Society's 2009 National Medal of Courage.

Keith Whyte, a Bengough-area farmer, was selected for the award for exhibiting unusual courage during his battle with cancer and his efforts to lobby for improved cancer treatment for patients. Whyte was among a group of cancer patients who were instrumental in having provincial health insurance extended to cover Avastin, a drug used in the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer.

Health Minister Don McMorris offered congratulations on behalf of the Saskatchewan government at an awards ceremony in Regina.

"Keith is a down-to-earth, seemingly tireless man who continues to actively support cancer patients and advocate for improved cancer care, even as he copes with a terminal illness," McMorris said. "He has become an inspiration to many people, and his experience reminds us that one of the best things we can do as individuals is to make the world a better place for others."

Whyte's advocacy also contributed to the addition of 10 chemotherapy chairs and four nursing positions at the cancer centres in Regina and Saskatoon for the administration of Avastin.

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For more information, contact:

Karen Hill
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: khill@health.gov.sk.ca