A Canadian father inspired by his daughter’s death from brain cancer has raised more than $1.6 million for research and received London’s first-ever London Medal | World News

Wayne Dunn’s life changes in ways he never imagined when he loses his daughter Allison to brain cancer at the age of 33. What started as a heartbreaking loss for a family turned into a mission to help others facing the same disease. The London, Ont., philanthropist launched the Dunn & Cancer Run in Alison’s memory, turning personal grief into a fundraising event that raised more than $1.6 million for brain cancer research. His decades of service to charities, food banks and children’s organizations have now earned him another accolade, becoming the first recipient of the City of London’s new Order of London in recognition of his lifelong commitment to community service.

How brain cancer inspired Wayne Dunn’s mission

Wayne Dunn spent decades supporting charities before cancer struck his family. His daughter, Allison, was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive and often fatal form of brain cancer, at age 33. She had three children but died just four months after being diagnosed in 2020. Instead of letting her grief define her future, Dunn decided to start the Dunn Cancer Run in her honor. The event has since grown into a major fundraiser to support brain cancer research across Canada, with proceeds helping researchers develop better treatments and improve outcomes for future patients.

Give back a lifetime

Long before she started the Cancer Run, Dunn had become one of London’s best-known community volunteers. He has led the Business Cares Food Drive since its inception, helping to raise millions of dollars and collect thousands of tonnes of food for London food banks. He also founded the Sunshine Foundation Golf Classic, which supports children with severe physical disabilities and life-threatening illnesses. His work brings businesses, volunteers and local organizations together to support those in need throughout the community.

Dunn and the inspiration behind her cancer run

Even before Alison became ill, she shared her father’s passion for helping others. She worked with him on several charity projects and later became director of community services at Friendship House in Waterloo, where she helped disadvantaged people access support services. After her death, Dunn wanted to create something that reflected her compassion while also funding research into the disease that took her life. Today, the Dunn with Cancer Run supports brain tumor research projects in teaching hospitals across Canada and has raised more than $1.6 million.In an interview with CBC, Dunn said meaningful change starts with believing in a cause and taking action, rather than just talking about it. He believes that anyone can make a difference by donating their time, participating in community events or supporting local charities, regardless of age or income. He believes that successful fundraising is never about one person, but the result of a team of volunteers, donors and supporters working together towards a common goal.

Awarded London’s first London Medal

The City of London has launched the Order of London as part of its bicentenary celebrations to recognize residents who have made outstanding contributions to their communities. Dunn becomes the inaugural recipient of the honor, recognizing his decades of leadership in charitable fundraising and volunteer work. He described the award as humbling and said it reflected the efforts of the many people who have stood by him throughout his fundraising journey.

A legacy built on hope

Although he has gained widespread recognition for his work, Dunn said his focus remains on helping others rather than celebrating personal achievements. His journey from losing his daughter to launching a fundraising campaign shows how personal tragedy can inspire lasting change. Through food drives, children’s charities and brain cancer research, Wayne Dunn continues to inspire others to donate their time and support worthy causes, believing that even small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.