IRIC - Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer

Published on February 19, 2025

February 17, 2025, will remain a milestone for William Brock, Chairman of IRIC’s Board of Directors. It’s been 20 years since he received a stem cell transplant that cured him of leukemia… a transplant that changed his life forever! This anniversary is a testament to his strength and resilience, and to the incredible progress made thanks to research and the solidarity of many. IRIC spoke to Mr. Brock to find out more about his journey and his determination to make the world a little more beautiful, just and healthy.

How do you feel today, 20 years after your transplant?

I feel incredibly grateful to have had, with my family, friends and colleagues, 20 years of a wonderful second life after cancer. I owe a debt of gratitude, which I can never fully repay, to the generations of scientists, physicians, philanthropists, and others who through decades of research gave me this second life.

Where does your boundless energy for your many projects come from?

Every day I have been given is a gift, and this energizes me to make use of every day, to help others, and to advance the science that saved my life. I try to live by the words of the late President John F. Kennedy. “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”

How important do you think it is to have citizen and corporate philanthropists for scientific research in Quebec?

Science saved my life and supporting science may save their lives and the lives of those they love. Supporting scientific research is truly supporting life!

Why did you choose to get involved with IRIC?

In Canada, one in two people will develop cancer in their lifetime, and one in four will succumb to the disease. Cancer remains the leading cause of mortality in the country, accounting for 30% of all deaths each year. IRIC is an internationally renowned research center dedicated to the fight against cancer through cutting-edge fundamental research, training the next generation of scientists, and translating discoveries into real-world applications, IRIC is a driving force for innovation in oncology and one of Montreal`s jewels. Helping IRIC is an important way I can repay the gift of life given to me.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Making the most of my second life, watching my children grow to be wonderful adults, and helping scientists, doctors and other patients, thereby, I hope, repaying the gift that was given to me.

What is your ultimate wish for cancer research?

That one day all cancers will be curable and that many others will enjoy the gift of life that has been given to me.