“Today, Feb. 4, is World Cancer Day. My thoughts are with the thousands of Albertans who are battling this dreadful disease, and their families and loved ones who are by their side on their journey.

“I can say, I don’t know a family that has not been touched by cancer; cancer does not discriminate based on age, gender or race. About 20,000 Albertans from every walk of life will be diagnosed with cancer this year, and more than 6,600 of our friends and family members will succumb to the disease.

“I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the tireless work of our oncology doctors, nurses and staff – our front line of hope and courage for patients and their families. Alberta is fortunate to have some of the best cancer treatment programs and skilled professionals in the country.

“Also, I wish to thank the thousands of Albertans who volunteer and donate to assist the work of the many organizations supporting patients, families, research and cancer prevention.”