Some stories begin in sorrow but evolve into powerful missions. For Gordon Frank, a Montreal-based philanthropist, the loss of his mother and younger brother to cancer became a turning point; not only in his personal life, but in his drive to support a cause close to his heart. His journey led him to a profound partnership with the Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Foundation (HBOC), a national organization based in Montreal, focused exclusively on genetic cancers that run in families.
Now, through generous contributions and hands-on involvement, Gordon is helping advance research that could prevent others from experiencing the kind of loss he knows all too well.
A Unique Canadian Charity: HBOC
What sets HBOC apart is its laser-focused mission: to raise awareness, fund research, and support individuals and families affected by inherited breast and ovarian cancer. Many cancers are sporadic, but HBOC addresses the urgent need to identify and treat those rooted in genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2, which can significantly raise a person’s lifetime cancer risk.
Though headquartered in Montreal, the Foundation’s impact is nationwide. And what’s more remarkable: it’s run entirely by volunteers, meaning that every dollar donated goes straight to funding research, education, and support initiatives.
To learn more or support the cause, visit: https://hboc.ca
Leading the Scientific Effort: Dr. Harley Eisman
Among the driving forces behind HBOC’s work is Dr. Harley Eisman, a leading pediatric emergency physician affiliated with the Montreal Children’s Hospital. His focus, however, goes well beyond pediatric care.
Dr. Eisman is spearheading efforts in genetic cancer research, working to establish screening programs for hereditary breast, ovarian, and prostate cancers. By helping identify individuals with genetic predispositions before cancer develops, his work offers families the chance to take preventative steps and, in many cases, save lives.
To learn more about Dr. Eisman’s work, visit his profile: https://montrealchildrenshospital.ca/staff/harley-eisman
Why Gordon Frank Stepped In
Gordon Frank’s personal experience with cancer shaped not only his worldview but also his determination to contribute meaningfully. His involvement in HBOC is both emotional and strategic, offering time, support, and financial contributions aimed at accelerating genetic research and outreach.
“This isn’t just about honoring my family,” Gordon explains. “It’s about helping others avoid that pain altogether. Genetic screening is the key, and I’m involved because I believe we can make that screening widely accessible.”
His message is clear: we all have a part to play, whether as donors, volunteers, or advocates for education and testing.
What’s at Stake: Understanding the Genetic Risk
Hereditary cancers aren’t rare. In fact:
- 5–10% of breast cancer and 10–15% of ovarian cancer cases are due to inherited gene mutations.
- Women with BRCA1 mutations can face a 72% lifetime risk of breast cancer.
- Men with certain mutations are at higher risk for prostate and pancreatic cancers, and even male breast cancer.
The solution? Early detection through genetic screening. Knowing one’s genetic risk opens the door to prevention, from regular screenings and medications to risk-reducing surgeries. It’s not just medical science; it’s peace of mind.
How You Can Make a Difference
If Gordon Frank’s journey inspires anything, it’s this: you don’t need to be a researcher to make an impact. Supporting organizations like HBOC ensures that researchers like Dr. Eisman can continue their work and that families across Canada have access to life-saving information and services.
The Foundation welcomes all forms of support, from financial donations to volunteer time and corporate sponsorships. Every effort helps expand access to genetic screening and education for people across the country.
Visit https://hboc.ca to get involved.
In a world where cancer remains one of our greatest challenges, Gordon Frank reminds us that compassion, combined with action, can move mountains.