A Legacy of Love Begins
In 1989, the world lost Gilda Radner—a woman who made millions laugh but whose greatest gift was her ability to bring people together. Her journey with ovarian cancer sparked something profound: a vision that no one should face cancer alone. That vision became Gilda’s Club.
(2003-2010)
A Dream Takes Root in Simcoe Muskoka
In 2003, Patricia Gilbert stood at a crossroads. A close friend’s battle with cancer made her realize something was missing: a place where people could find more than just medical treatment—a place where they could find comfort, understanding, and strength in community.
Determined to bring Gilda’s spirit to Simcoe Muskoka, Patricia and a team of dedicated volunteers launched a seven-year journey of fundraising, advocacy, and unwavering belief.
And then, in May 2010, a door opened—a bright red door that symbolized hope. On September 17, 2010, Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka officially welcomed its first members, marking the beginning of a space where laughter, tears, and connection could exist together.
Determined to bring Gilda’s spirit to Simcoe Muskoka, Patricia and a team of dedicated volunteers launched a seven-year journey of fundraising, advocacy, and unwavering belief.
And then, in May 2010, a door opened—a bright red door that symbolized hope. On September 17, 2010, Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka officially welcomed its first members, marking the beginning of a space where laughter, tears, and connection could exist together.
(2010-Present)
Building a Community of Support
Over the years, the clubhouse has grown into a haven for those facing the unimaginable. Sitting across from Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre and the Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Program, it has become more than just a building; it’s a lifeline.
place where a mother newly diagnosed with cancer finds reassurance in a support group. A place where children who have lost a parent to cancer can laugh and play without fear. A place where a survivor can sit in a cozy chair, sip tea, and realize they are not alone.
Through educational workshops, support groups, social activities, and a deep sense of belonging, Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka now serves over 750 members annually. And every program, every hug, every tear, every moment of courage, is offered free of charge.
place where a mother newly diagnosed with cancer finds reassurance in a support group. A place where children who have lost a parent to cancer can laugh and play without fear. A place where a survivor can sit in a cozy chair, sip tea, and realize they are not alone.
Through educational workshops, support groups, social activities, and a deep sense of belonging, Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka now serves over 750 members annually. And every program, every hug, every tear, every moment of courage, is offered free of charge.
Help Us Keep the Red Door Open
This year, we celebrate 15 years of community, connection, and compassion at Gilda’s Club. But as our membership continues to grow, so does the need for your support.
Each member who walks through our door costs approximately $1,500 per year to serve, offering them access to life-changing psychosocial support, counselling, programs, and a place where no one faces cancer alone.
In 2021, we operated at a deficit. By 2023, even with increased fundraising, expenses still exceeded revenue. And in 2024, while we proudly reached over $1 million in revenue, our expenses have also risen sharply, reflecting the growing number of individuals and families depending on us.
Your donation isn’t just a gift, it’s a lifeline. A monthly support group, a family night, a bereavement circle, a young adult meetup… all made possible because someone like you believed in our mission.
As we mark this milestone year, help us sustain and expand our programs to meet the increasing demand. Every dollar makes a difference. Every donor helps keep our red door open for someone who needs it.
Donate today. For Gilda’s. For the community. For everyone facing cancer.
In 2021, we operated at a deficit. By 2023, even with increased fundraising, expenses still exceeded revenue. And in 2024, while we proudly reached over $1 million in revenue, our expenses have also risen sharply, reflecting the growing number of individuals and families depending on us.
Your donation isn’t just a gift, it’s a lifeline. A monthly support group, a family night, a bereavement circle, a young adult meetup… all made possible because someone like you believed in our mission.
As we mark this milestone year, help us sustain and expand our programs to meet the increasing demand. Every dollar makes a difference. Every donor helps keep our red door open for someone who needs it.
Donate today. For Gilda’s. For the community. For everyone facing cancer.
A Legacy of Love Begins
In 1989, the world lost Gilda Radner—a woman who made millions laugh but whose greatest gift was her ability to bring people together. Her journey with ovarian cancer sparked something profound: a vision that no one should face cancer alone. That vision became Gilda’s Club.
A Dream Takes Root in Simcoe Muskoka
In 2003, Patricia Gilbert stood at a crossroads. A close friend’s battle with cancer made her realize something was missing: a place where people could find more than just medical treatment—a place where they could find comfort, understanding, and strength in community.
Determined to bring Gilda’s spirit to Simcoe Muskoka, Patricia and a team of dedicated volunteers launched a seven-year journey of fundraising, advocacy, and unwavering belief.
And then, in May 2010, a door opened—a bright red door that symbolized hope. On September 17, 2010, Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka officially welcomed its first members, marking the beginning of a space where laughter, tears, and connection could exist together.
Help Us Keep the Red Door Open
Over the years, the clubhouse has grown into a haven for those facing the unimaginable. Sitting across from Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre and the Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Program, it has become more than just a building; it’s a lifeline.
place where a mother newly diagnosed with cancer finds reassurance in a support group. A place where children who have lost a parent to cancer can laugh and play without fear. A place where a survivor can sit in a cozy chair, sip tea, and realize they are not alone.
Through educational workshops, support groups, social activities, and a deep sense of belonging, Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka now serves over 750 members annually. And every program, every hug, every tear, every moment of courage, is offered free of charge.
place where a mother newly diagnosed with cancer finds reassurance in a support group. A place where children who have lost a parent to cancer can laugh and play without fear. A place where a survivor can sit in a cozy chair, sip tea, and realize they are not alone.
Through educational workshops, support groups, social activities, and a deep sense of belonging, Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka now serves over 750 members annually. And every program, every hug, every tear, every moment of courage, is offered free of charge.
Help Us Keep the Red Door Open
This year, we celebrate 15 years of community, connection, and compassion at Gilda’s Club. But as our membership continues to grow, so does the need for your support.
Each member who walks through our door costs approximately $1,500 per year to serve, offering them access to life-changing psychosocial support, counselling, programs, and a place where no one faces cancer alone.
In 2021, we operated at a deficit. By 2023, even with increased fundraising, expenses still exceeded revenue. And in 2024, while we proudly reached over $1 million in revenue, our expenses have also risen sharply, reflecting the growing number of individuals and families depending on us.
Your donation isn’t just a gift, it’s a lifeline. A monthly support group, a family night, a bereavement circle, a young adult meetup… all made possible because someone like you believed in our mission.
As we mark this milestone year, help us sustain and expand our programs to meet the increasing demand. Every dollar makes a difference. Every donor helps keep our red door open for someone who needs it.
Donate today. For Gilda’s. For the community. For everyone facing cancer.
Each member who walks through our door costs approximately $1,500 per year to serve, offering them access to life-changing psychosocial support, counselling, programs, and a place where no one faces cancer alone.
In 2021, we operated at a deficit. By 2023, even with increased fundraising, expenses still exceeded revenue. And in 2024, while we proudly reached over $1 million in revenue, our expenses have also risen sharply, reflecting the growing number of individuals and families depending on us.
Your donation isn’t just a gift, it’s a lifeline. A monthly support group, a family night, a bereavement circle, a young adult meetup… all made possible because someone like you believed in our mission.
As we mark this milestone year, help us sustain and expand our programs to meet the increasing demand. Every dollar makes a difference. Every donor helps keep our red door open for someone who needs it.
Donate today. For Gilda’s. For the community. For everyone facing cancer.
15th Anniversary Red Tie Gala
For 15 years, Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka has been a place of hope, connection, and support for those impacted by cancer. This year, we invite you to celebrate this incredible milestone with an unforgettable evening of laughter, love, and legacy—just as Gilda Radner would have wanted.
Join Us for Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka’s Red Tie Gala
Gilda Radner believed that “laughter is healing,” and for 15 years, we’ve brought that philosophy to life in Simcoe County and beyond. This event is more than a celebration—it’s a chance to honour the past, embrace the present, and pave the way for the future of free cancer support in our community.
Can’t attend but want to support Gilda’s?
Consider donating to help us continue offering free programs for those impacted by cancer.
Proud Sponsors of Gilda's Club 15-Year Celebration
