Brother Canada Supports Childhood Cancer Canada's "Words of Hope" National Awareness Campaign

Celebrated Canadian illustrator Michael Martchenko partners with CCC and Brother to spread the word with a unique work of art

DOLLARD-DES-ORMEAUX, QC, Feb. 15, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Today, Childhood Cancer Canada (CCC), in collaboration with Brother Canada, launched its national awareness campaign "Words of Hope," to commemorate International Childhood Cancer Awareness Day. The inaugural campaign, featuring renowned children's book illustrator Michael Martchenko, aims to support families affected by childhood cancer through a unique work of art inspired by Words of Hope from across the country.

Through its "Words of Hope" campaign, CCC is encouraging all Canadians to submit inspiring words online, until April 1^st, 2012, by visiting www.wordsofhope.ca . Martchenko's work of art will be unveiled to the public at a surprise location in Toronto this May.

Martchenko, best known for illustrating many of Robert Munsch's most popular children's books, has a long history of creating art that resonates with a younger audience. "I am thrilled to be participating in a project that supports such a worthwhile cause," expressed Martchenko. "Art has a unique impact on children - it brings concepts and feelings to life, and resonates in a very special way. I am excited to be part of a creative project inspired by the healing power of hope."

This year is a particularly exciting time for CCC, which is proudly celebrating its 25^th anniversary. "We are celebrating an important landmark and will strive to have more impact on the lives of Canadian children suffering from cancer," said Megan Davidson, President and CEO of CCC. "Many thanks go out to our partners, who help us provide hope and empowerment to children fighting cancer and to their families. We are also so grateful and extremely excited to be working with an artist as beloved as Michael Martchenko," she added.

"We are very happy to be able to give back to our community by participating in this creative art project," expressed Martin Featherston, President of Brother Canada. "CCC is an admirable organization and we are proud of our partnership with them."

Recent statistics show that children affected by cancer are living longer. With a survival rate of approximately 82%, CCC is dedicated to funding national research, while delivering critical education, community and connectivity programs to families affected by cancer. With the support and funding from corporate sponsors such as Brother Canada, CCC can maintain its important support programs and award post-secondary Survivor Scholarships to its brave survivors.

For more information on CCC or to submit some Words of Hope, please visit www.childhoodcancer.ca.

About Childhood Cancer Canada (CCC):
Founded in 1987, Childhood Cancer Canada is the country's leading foundation dedicated to funding national research while delivering critical education, community, and connectivity programs to children with cancer and their families. Through our national network of care we have been able to reach those who need our help. Our partnership with C17, the Council of Pediatric Hematologists/Oncologists, ensures that the national research we fund improves health outcomes and quality of life for children and adolescents.

About Brother Canada:
Brother Canada celebrated its 50^th anniversary in 2010. The company was established in Montreal in 1960 and is part of a worldwide network of companies belonging to Brother Industries Ltd, of which the corporate headquarters is situated in Nagoya, Japan. Active in over 100 countries, Brother markets a wide range of business machines and home appliances known for their reliability, ease of use and versatility at affordable prices. Numerous Brother products have been awarded significant honours.

Recent awards for the company include: the PC Mag Reader's Choice Award 2011 for the quality and reliability of Brother B&W and colour laser printers and all-in-ones, as well as the internationally recognized iF Product Design Award 2011, commending seven Brother products for their innovation and quality of design. Brother Industries Ltd. is a 6 billion-dollar (USD) company employing more than 29,000 people operating in 44 countries and regions around the globe.

Brother Canada has pledged to support CCC. Through its partnership with them, Brother has become a National Sponsor and has helped fund a variety of vital initiatives.

For more information on Brother Canada, please visit www.brother.ca.

Kristin Gable
Citoyen Optimum
514-282-4841 / [email protected]