A fundraiser in honour of former McMaster University faculty member Tom Lee has more than tripled its initial goal of $3,000, collecting over $10,000 in donations.
Lee, who previously led the Master of Engineering Entrepreneurship and Innovation program in the Faculty of Engineering, retired in 2023 after being diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic colon cancer.
Since 2019, Michele Vaz, Business Manager within the Faculty of Engineering’s W Booth School of Engineering Practice and Technology, has led a fundraising effort for a meaningful cause. For 2024, the choice was clear: supporting the Grand River Regional Cancer Centre (GRRCC) in Kitchener-Waterloo, where Lee is receiving palliative chemotherapy.
“Tom is a highly valued member of the Booth School community, and showing our support during his treatment is the least we can do,” said Vaz. “The success of this fundraiser, with over $10,000 raised, demonstrates how much our community cares for and appreciates Tom.”
The funds raised will be used to purchase a new chemotherapy technology chair in honor of Tom Lee and the W Booth School of Engineering Practice and Technology. Any remaining funds will support other general patient care initiatives at the GRRCC.
“I’m reminded of the power of community with this fundraiser,” said Brian Baetz, Director of W Booth School. “Whether you know Tom personally or joined in support of this cause, together, we’ve made a significant impact. Thank you to everyone who donated and helped coordinate this effort.”
On November 13, 2024, Vaz and Baetz presented a cheque to Lee and his family as well as GRRCC representatives.
“This was an amazing way to reconnect with my McMaster friends following my retirement,” says Lee. “And as always, the team set sights high and achieved results that will help a lot of people.”