COLD LAKE - A Cold Lake-based non-profit is making a major impact in the fight against cancer by raising funds, providing support, and directly benefiting those affected by the disease.
The organization, 86Cancer, was founded in 2020 by Kyle McGauley and his wife Brittany McGauley. It has grown from selling t-shirts to hosting large-scale charity events, all while donating 100 per cent of proceeds to cancer charities.
A personal mission
"My wife and I started 86Cancer shortly after my father died of lung cancer and my father-in-law was diagnosed with cancer in 2019," said McGauley. "I knew I wanted to help the cancer cause in some way, I just didn’t know where to start."
Finding the right name was the first step.
"I was aware of the 'Fu$%Cancer' company brand and wanted something similar. However, I was seeking a name that is less aggressive and more appropriate. Long story short, I came up with the name 86Cancer. Eighty-six is defined as removing, rejecting, or discarding something or someone. Hence the name 86Cancer."
The organization raises funds through merchandise sales, audio services, volunteering, and its annual "Whalers Charity Classic" hockey game.
All proceeds raised have been donated to registered cancer charities, with the majority benefiting the Bonnyville Cancer Clinic.
"I’ve entrusted them to use the money as they see fit and distribute it to the most needed parts of the clinic."
The 86Cancer Oilers experience
This year, the non-profit launched the 86Cancer "Oilers Experience," which provides a direct benefit to cancer patients.
"We decided on the Oilers Experience because we wanted to help people directly firsthand," said McGauley.
He shared a personal story behind the initiative.
"While my dad was battling cancer, he would still smile and laugh, but it wasn’t the same as before when he was healthy. Before he passed, I was lucky enough to attend an Oilers game with him. It was the first time in years I saw him genuinely excited, smiling and laughing, completely forgetting his condition and free from all worries. It was a great game, and I’ll never forget that positive experience."
The initiative has made a local impact, both funding the cancer clinic and sending six Lakeland families to an Oilers game.
Community support and goals
McGauley expressed gratitude for the local support that has been shown.
"We have been fortunate to have such supportive businesses in the area. People are so generous, and we’ve had such amazing success fundraising locally. Thank you to all the businesses who have supported our cause throughout the years."
He aims to grow 86Cancer by partnering with local boutiques to sell merchandise and securing sponsorship for their DJ services at a fundraiser.
Despite having full-time jobs and raising three kids, McGauley and his wife are committed to continuing their work.
“We plan to continue expanding our merchandise line, offering audio services when time permits, and hosting our annual charity hockey game - next year being our fifth year hosting the event."
For more information about the organization visit www.86cancer.ca
