Sault IDA pharmacies to raise funds for leukemia research

An upcoming fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada is being held in honour of a Sault Ste. Marie native who was recently diagnosed with leukemia.    

On April 21, a fundraiser will be held at four local IDA pharmacies for James Borrelli, an assistant athletic therapist with the Calgary Flames who is currently undergoing treatment for an aggressive form of leukemia. 

"James is a big part of our Flames family and we stand shoulder to shoulder with him in his fight," said Calgary Flames General Manager Brad Treliving in a Feb. 23 news release. "We know James is going to beat this and we ask the entire C of Red to keep him in your thoughts and prayers."

Frank Perna, pharmacist and co-owner of four IDA pharmacies in Sault Ste. Marie, is currently organizing the one-day fundraiser that will take place at all four of his pharmacies (Queenstown, Wellington Square, Market Mall and Urban Square).

Perna says he was “shocked” by his cousin's diagnosis.  

“I just wanted to do anything we can here to try to help out in any way we can by donating some money to the cause,” Perna said. 

The Calgary Flames organization has created decals in the shape of a ribbon bearing the words ‘JBo Strong’ that can currently be seen on the helmets of Calgary Flames players. 

The four participating IDA pharmacies will use the image of the ‘JBo Strong’ ribbon for the fundraiser. Borrelli’s former employer, the North Bay Battalion of the Ontario Hockey League, has also used the ribbon to throw its support behind him on social media.  

“That was a big thing, because it shows the effect he’s had both professionally and personally with all these organizations. He obviously means a lot to them, and for them to show that kind of support is pretty awesome,” said Perna, speaking to the support shown by both the Flames and the Battalion. “He’s made some really long lasting connections in those communities.” 

Perna hopes to have images of the ‘JBo Strong’ ribbon displayed at participating pharmacies in the coming weeks. 

More information on the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada can be found on its website.