Founded in 2009, Bladder Cancer Canada is the first and only patient advocacy group in Canada that provides support specific to bladder cancer patients and research. The organization was founded by two bladder cancer patients who discovered a need for emotional support and connection from a dedicated community who understood the hardships and intricacies of the disease relative to other forms of cancer. Bladder cancer is the 5th most common form of cancer, yet ranks 21st in terms of funding and research. Bladder cancer also has the highest rate of recurrence, and common treatment involves the total removal of the bladder. Both of these facts make it the most expensive form of cancer to treat. Through patient programs, fundraising and awareness campaigns, Bladder Cancer Canada strives to provide support to patients, shine light on symptoms to increase early detection of the disease, and fund research into the diagnosis, treatment and elimination of bladder cancer. In doing this, the hope is that one day bladder cancer will be just a memory.