Following the death of Ms. Suzanne Lévesque on January 4, the Montreal Cancer Institute wishes to pay tribute to this long-standing and generous benefactor. At the head of the J.-Louis Lévesque Foundation, Mrs. Lévesque held the position of President and CEO for many years.
An ally of the Institute, the Fondation J.-Louis Lévesque has provided significant financial support to the Montreal Cancer Institute’s Brain Repatriation program, contributing financially to the Concert contre le Cancer over the past 10 years for a total of $250,000 donated to cancer research. To date, 13 researchers from the Montreal Cancer Institute have been repatriated and are working in the Cancer Axis of the Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal.
Ms. Lévesque has been instrumental in funding the work of renowned oncology researchers, including Dr. Simon Turcotte, a member of the Institute who was repatriated thanks to the Brain Repatriation program in 2013. His contributions have been crucial to breakthroughs in cancer immunotherapy, notably in the isolation and expansion of anti-tumor T lymphocytes, paving the way for innovative and more effective treatments for various forms of cancer.
Ms. Lévesque’s philosophy, summed up in her maxim “In philanthropy, you gain much more than you give”, reflects the depth and authenticity of her commitment. Her generosity not only enriched the scientific community, but also transformed the lives of many individuals affected by cancer.
Suzanne Lévesque’s legacy, particularly in cancer research, continues to inspire and guide future generations of researchers. Her vision and unwavering support for scientists like Dr. Turcotte have opened up unprecedented perspectives in cancer treatment.
Ms. Lévesque, thank you for everything.
The family will receive condolences on Thursday, January 25 and Friday, January 26, from 3 to 6 p.m., at Complexe funéraire Mont-Royal.
Other news
