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At 85, former journalist Caroline Ion learned about the new benefits of donating shares to a registered charity. "You hear about people giving lots of money and think that you yourself can't make a difference. But when I read an article in the Financial Post about new legislation that eliminates capital gains on gifts of shares to a charity, I discovered that I can do something," said Caroline. Her husband of 62 years, Nelson, died of prostate cancer that had metastasized to his bones. "I was so pleased with the care he received at the BC Cancer Agency's Vancouver Island Centre. They were so compassionate, even with me, as well as being kind and knowledgeable. I originally wanted to do something in my will for the BC Cancer Foundation, and then I read about this new legislation for gifts of shares and thought it would be more effective to give now and receive the tax benefits."

"I think donating to this cause is tremendously important. The BC Cancer Agency is really leading in research and becoming a recognized agency for the new ways of treating and preventing cancer. It gives me a quiet satisfaction that I am making a difference — and that there is money for bright young researchers. I try to do the best I can with what I have and this new legislation made that possible."