Overview

Meagan Bebenek was just 4 years old when her family heard the words that would change their lives forever. Meagan was diagnosed with an inoperable and malignant brain tumour that would take her life a short 6 months later.

When Meagan's mother, Denise, left the hospital after Meagan passed away, she knew she had to do something to help other children who faced serious health challenges. She also knew that no family should have to walk this path alone.

Denise founded Meagan's HUG: Creating a Circle of Hope.

Brain tumours are the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children and adolescents. Yet, childhood cancer is consistently underfunded, accounting for only five percent of all cancer research funding in Canada. It is important to note that paediatric brain tumours are on the rise in our communities.

The mission of Meagan's HUG is to raise awareness and funds for paediatric brain tumour research, and to foster hope and improve outcomes for affected children and their families.

Meagan’s HUG is making an indelible mark on paediatric health care by improving outcomes, quality of life, and survival rates for children and young people with brain tumours. The goal is to translate research observations into tangible benefits for our children who are affected by brain tumours.

Donations support:
families throughout their cancer journey
seed research projects, some resulting in seminal discoveries, and leading to the establishment of clinical trials
the purchase of cutting-edge equipment
the ongoing funding of the Toronto Brain Tumour Network tissue bank
the Meagan's HUG Neuro-oncology Fellowship