Sea Wolves Men’s Cancer Pack: A Powerful Brotherhood Supporting Men with Cancer on Vancouver Island
Sea Wolves Men’s Cancer Pack: A Powerful Brotherhood Supporting Men with Cancer on Vancouver Island
For many men, cancer is more than a diagnosis—it’s a deeply isolating experience. The Sea Wolves Men’s Cancer Pack exists to change that.
Born from the belief that no man should go through cancer alone, the Sea Wolves is a grassroots men’s cancer support group based on Vancouver Island. Founded and led by men who are cancer survivors themselves—or are currently walking the path—this group offers a rare kind of brotherhood rooted in shared experience, authenticity, and emotional support.
Whether you're newly diagnosed, in remission, a long-term warrior, or a male caregiver supporting someone through their battle, the Sea Wolves is a safe space where men can drop the mask, speak freely, and be held up by others who truly understand.
Why the Sea Wolves Exist: Men Supporting Men Through Cancer
Many men struggle to talk openly about vulnerability, especially when facing a life-threatening illness. The Sea Wolves recognize this and create a unique, judgment-free space that makes it easier for men to open up and receive the help they need. Through their shared language and life experience, the Sea Wolves help break the stigma around men expressing emotion and seeking support.
The group’s motto is simple: Men with cancer helping men with cancer. That mission has evolved to include not just patients but caregivers too—men supporting loved ones through treatment who also need connection and community.
Growing Community, Growing Impact
What started as a simple Tuesday coffee chat between four men in Nanaimo has quickly grown into a movement. Today, the Tuesday Coffee Meetups at White Rabbit Coffee Co. welcome more than 20 men weekly from communities like Port Alberni, Qualicum Beach, and Cedar. Some guests have even traveled from as far as Australia after discovering the group online.
These meetings are filled with laughter, bad jokes, shared stories, a few tears, and unwavering emotional support. Men lift each other up during tough weeks, celebrate clean scans and victories, and form friendships that extend well beyond a coffee shop table.
The Backpack Program: Small Package, Huge Impact
A cornerstone of the Sea Wolves mission is their treatment backpack program, which distributes thoughtful care packages to men undergoing cancer treatment across Vancouver Island.
Each backpack contains comfort items, resources, and a personal message of encouragement. More than that, each one is a powerful symbol of brotherhood. Members of the Sea Wolves personally deliver these backpacks to patients at cancer centres, workplaces, and even neighbourhoods—spreading support across the island and beyond.
Men who receive these backpacks often describe feeling seen, understood, and less alone. Many are moved to tears—not just by the items inside, but by the fact that someone took the time to show they care.
100% Volunteer-Led and Community-Funded
Unlike many non-profits, the Sea Wolves Men’s Cancer Pack receives no government funding. Every dollar raised comes from individual donations, private sponsors, and in-kind support from local businesses across Vancouver Island.
All programs—including the treatment backpacks and local meetups—are powered by volunteers and cancer warriors who give their time, energy, and heart to help others.
The group recently received a major honour: Winner of the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce Health & Wellness Award. While the Sea Wolves don’t do this for recognition, they’re grateful for the growing awareness and validation of their mission.
Ways to Get Involved with the Sea Wolves
Whether you’re looking for support, want to contribute, or are simply inspired by this mission, here are a few ways to get involved:
Start a Local Coffee Group – The Sea Wolves model can be replicated in any town. If you’d like to start your own men’s cancer support group or caregiver meetup, the Sea Wolves will guide you. Reach out to Don Helgeson (250-616-6221), Greg Brown (604-612-1676), or Duane Seibel (778-220-8991).
Donate or Sponsor – Your support helps fund treatment backpacks and expand programs across Vancouver Island. Both financial and in-kind contributions are needed.
Refer a Cancer Warrior or Caregiver – If you know a man facing cancer or a caregiver who needs support, don’t let them do it alone. Help them get in touch.
Become a Sea Wolf Ambassador – Join the brotherhood, spread the word, and help deliver backpacks in your community.
Mark Your Calendar: Man Up To Cancer Family Day – Sept 27, 2025
The Sea Wolves' biggest cancer fundraising event of the year is coming up this fall!
📅 Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025
📍 Location: Wolf Brewing Company – 940 Old Victoria Road, Nanaimo, BC
This all-ages, family-friendly event features:
Live music from local bands
A delicious BBQ hosted by the Nanaimo Daybreak Rotary Club
Kids’ activities including face painting and colouring
A moving Men’s Cancer Panel
50/50 draws and a silent auction
And much more
Want to sponsor the event, donate an auction item, or volunteer? Get in touch now—planning is underway!
Join the Pack
Men’s cancer support doesn’t have to be clinical or cold—it can be a warm, welcoming, real connection among men who understand what you’re going through. The Sea Wolves Men’s Cancer Pack is proving that, every single day.
📲 Follow along on Facebook, Instagram, or visit www.seawolvesmenscancer.ca to learn more.
🧡 Because no man should fight cancer alone. Not now. Not ever.
