Barbara Kaminsky lives and breathes cancer-but in a positive way. She has been the CEO of the Canadian Cancer Society, BC and Yukon Division for 17 years. The born-and-raised Vancouverite has been a tireless leader and strong advocate for cancer-related issues. During her tenure, the society has become a leader in cancer prevention and cancer research funding.
"The biggest challenge in the last 17 years has been finding the right balance, balance in our mission priorities of research, support and prevention and balance in preserving the best of our history with the constant need to stay relevant," she says.
Kaminsky believes we're making gains in the fight against cancer. "We're making incremental progress on specific types of cancers that add to major gains. When the Canadian Cancer Society began in 1938, only about 25 per cent of people survived 'the big C,' now survival exceeds 60 per cent."
Kaminsky has personal reasons for dedicating a career to fighting cancer. "I lost my father to lung cancer when we were young. And I have a nephew that has not only survived childhood leukemia, but he has gone on to become a post-cancer thriver."
Where Kaminsky has excelled is in the area of cancer prevention and the development of a prevention strategy. "About half of all cancers can be prevented, but it's not as simple as telling people not to smoke, be physically active, eat well, keep a healthy body weight, and avoid over-exposure to the sun," says the co-author of The Health Impact of Smoking & Obesity and What to do About it.
She says supportive environments are necessary so people can make easily healthy choices. "Governments can also make a huge difference through healthy public policy."
April is Cancer Awareness month across Canada.
What has been your biggest success?
It's being accomplished now-our Cancer Prevention Centre. This has the potential to make a significant impact on cancer control by reducing the numbers of preventable cancers. It will be the game-changer.
What are some current breakthroughs?
Now researchers are developing "designer" cancer drugs that specifically target tiny components of each cancer cell. Identifying new and better ways to diagnose cancer which includes developing better, more precise mammography and ultrasound methods; new scanning techniques and highly sensitive blood tests. Research into better understanding the link between cancer and behaviour, to identify high-risk individuals and groups and provide them with information to change unhealthy habits.
Which cancer needs more attention?
Lung cancer patients are often stigmatized for this disease. We need to find out how to prevent young people from starting to smoke and get those addicted to stop.
Your hope for the organization?
That we truly made cancer history.
Biggest setback?
The economic challenges over the past several years have meant that our ambitious strategic plan needs to be recalibrated. There are so many very important things that we could and should do but we also need to be prudent stewards of donor dollars.
Best life lesson?
Perseverance-if you believe in something keep at it. But be flexible about how to achieve it.
A lesson to share?
Worry less and laugh more.
What would you change about the world?
Two things that are probably related-greed and war.
Biggest accomplishment?
Keeping my husband alive. He has shown death who is boss many times, most recently, last fall.
Three words to live by?
Go for it.
Your secret talent?
Formerly an excellent Ukrainian folk dancer.
One thing you can't live without?
Optimism.
Best place for coffee?
Elysian Coffee on West Broadway.
Favourite restaurant?
Tojo's. Great tasting food that is also healthy. Service that is attentive but not intrusive.
Biggest indulgence?
Dark chocolate. I am lobbying to make it one of the essential food groups.
Last book you read?
The Cave by Jose Saramago
All-time favourite movie?
Singin' In The Rain.
Favourite sports team?
Not really a sports fan.
Best thing about this city?
How very livable the city is, and how you can walk to most places. My most frequent mode of transport is my two feet and a good pair of walking shoes. I am sure our car feels lonely and neglected-we use it so seldom.
Worst thing about this city?
It still has the reputation of being a 'no fun' city.
Favourite neighborhood?
Fairview Slopes-our 'hood.
Describe a perfect Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»day?
Cappuccino in bed while reading newspapers; walk on the seawall and dinner at Tojo's.
Where do you take out-of-town visitors?
Our condo-it has a breathtaking view of the North Shore mountains, the water and downtown Vancouver. Visitors walk into our living room and gasp with wonder.
Who bugs you?
I try not to let anyone do that to me. Don't always succeed.
Most overrated person?
We should all be special to at least one other person.
Who inspires you?
Canadian Cancer Society volunteers and donors. Without their support, we couldn't do anything.
