LCBO stores raise funds for Osteoporosis Canada

TORONTO, ON (Thursday July 19th, 2012) - Starting July 22, 2012 the public can help support Osteoporosis Canada by making a donation at any of the more than 620 LCBO stores throughout Ontario. Donation boxes for Osteoporosis Canada will be displayed at LCBO checkout counters until August 18, 2012.

Osteoporosis Canada, established in 1982, is the only national organization in Canada serving people who are, or are at risk of, osteoporosis. Funds raised through the LCBO stores will help Osteoporosis Canada to continue its work to educate, empower, and support individuals living with osteoporosis, as well as their caregivers, the general public, and health care professionals in the areas of post-fracture treatment, fracture risk reduction, and treatment of osteoporosis.

Fractures from osteoporosis are more common than heart attack, stroke and breast cancer combined.  It is estimated that nearly two million Canadians are living with osteoporosis. At least one in three women and one in five men will suffer from an osteoporotic fracture during their lifetime.

Each year 30,000 Canadians break their hip. 28% of women and 37% of men who suffer a hip fracture will die within the following year. The cost of treating osteoporosis and the fractures it causes is estimated to be $1.9 billion each year. The reduced quality of life for those with osteoporosis is enormous. Osteoporosis can result in disfigurement, lowered self-esteem, reduction or loss of mobility, and decreased independence.

Dr. Famida Jiwa, President & CEO, Osteoporosis Canada said “We appreciate the support we receive from LCBO, its employees and especially its customers. LCBO’s province-wide store network and supportive staff enable us to raise significant funds and increase public awareness of our charity.”

“LCBO is pleased to partner with Osteoporosis Canada and provide support to a variety of worthy causes,” says LCBO President & CEO Bob Peter. “Generous LCBO customers and staff improve the lives of countless Ontarians and help communities throughout the province.”

Osteoporosis Canada thanks the public for its support when shopping at their local LCBO store during July and August.

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Media Contacts:

Matthew Rocheford
Osteoporosis Canada
Communications Coordinator
Tel: 416 696-2663; E-Mail: mrocheford@osteoporosis.ca

Stephanie Petroff
LCBO Senior Communications Consultant
Tel: 416 864-6792; E-mail: stephanie.petroff@lcbo.com