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WINDSOR, ON, September 28, 2026 - - An $80 million federal investment over four years, matched by the Terry Fox Research Institute and participating institutions, will support precision oncology research through the Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network (MOHCCN). The $160 million national investment will help expand the network’s work, including research involving the University of Windsor and Windsor Regional Hospital in Windsor-Essex.
Together in partnership, the University of Windsor and Windsor Regional Hospital became the first community hospital-based site in Canada to join the network. Supported by WE-SPARK Health Institute, their collaboration connects local researchers and clinicians with a national effort to use genomic information and shared research data to better understand cancer and inform treatment.
“Through the collective efforts of researchers, clinicians, healthcare partners and patients, Windsor-Essex is helping advance precision oncology while ensuring our community contributes to and benefits from a national research network,” said Dr. Dora Cavallo-Medved, director of WE-SPARK Health Institute. “We are excited to build on the momentum already underway through the leadership of researchers and clinicians in our region.”
Most people with cancer in Canada receive care in community healthcare settings, where access to precision oncology remains limited. Participation in the MOHCCN creates opportunities to expand local access to precision oncology and research, including clinical trials. Over time, this work could help more patients benefit from advances in cancer care closer to home.
Precision oncology uses the genetic and biological makeup of cancer cells to help doctors choose treatment tailored to each patient. This approach can reduce damage to healthy cells and harmful side effects, while improving the likelihood that treatment will work. Bringing this research into community care can help move discoveries into patient care sooner and improve access for patients outside major centres.
Dr. Lisa Porter, Distinguished Professor of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Windsor, and Dr. Caroline Hamm, an oncologist at Windsor Regional Hospital, both WE-SPARK Core Principal Members, are among the local research leaders contributing to the network’s work. The investment also strengthens the training environment for students and trainees working alongside cancer researchers and clinicians.
“This announcement highlights the important role Windsor-Essex is playing in advancing cancer research on a national stage,” said Dr. Shanthi Johnson, vice-president, research and innovation, at the University of Windsor. “The University of Windsor is proud to support outstanding research leaders such as Dr. Porter and Dr. Hamm, whose work is helping shape the future of cancer research and precision oncology. This investment also creates new opportunities for our students and trainees to participate in high-impact research and develop the skills needed to tackle tomorrow’s health challenges.”
“Too often, patients in smaller communities are expected to travel to larger centres to access cutting-edge research and innovation,” said Kristin Kennedy, president and CEO of Windsor Regional Hospital. “Through our participation in the Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network, Windsor Regional Hospital is helping change that. This investment strengthens our ability to connect local patients with world-class cancer research while allowing them to remain close to their support systems, families and care teams.”
Local support from the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation, Transition to Betterness and the Cancer Research Collaboration Fund has also helped strengthen Windsor-Essex’s cancer research programs connected to the network.
The announcement was made in Ottawa on September 24 by the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health. It also included remarks from Mona Fortier, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs; Jim Woodgett, president and scientific director of the Terry Fox Research Institute; and Darrell Fox, speaking on behalf of the Fox family. The federal government described the investment as part of its commitment with the G7 to accelerate the fight against cancer and advance cancer research.
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