Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw celebrated his successful cancer treatment, marking the milestone by ringing the bell in UHN's Princess Margaret Cancer Centre.
"I am immensely grateful for my care team at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre," he said.
"The only way to describe the care I received is 'world-class.'"
It was an emotional moment for Chief Demkiw, his wife and Dr. John Cho, the PM radiation oncologist who treated him for five years and declared the magic words: "Congratulations. You are all clear."
"There is no question that I received the best possible care," Chief Demkiw said. "Every single person including nurses, doctors, technicians and volunteers were exceptional.
"They gave me great strength. You truly are remarkable people doing extraordinary things."
First diagnosed with cancer of the right vocal chord in the summer of 2019, Chief Demkiw acknowledged that cancer had a "tremendous impact" on his family and friends, noting his treatment was "intense."
Sharing his story on a LinkedIn post, Chief Demkiw honoured the role friends, family and the Toronto Police community played in helping him maintain positivity throughout treatment and recovery.
Chief Demkiw also thanked The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation (PMCF).
"It is impossible to reflect on the past five years without acknowledging the work of The PMCF, which raises money for invaluable medical research," he said. "Throughout my treatment, I participated in research and came to better understand the value of philanthropy and fundraising.
"The research professionals I met are incredible and the work they do to find a cure and improve treatment is inspiring… you are truly saving lives and helping people through some of the most challenging of circumstances."
"This is the point at which I can now consider myself cured," said Chief Demkiw. "Although yearly check-ins will continue, and every sore throat will still bring a feeling of apprehension."
Chief Demkiw, appointed to his role in 2022, raises money for various charities and supports Cops for Cancer.
