Challenge accepted: Vancouver builders join movement to fight cancer

In February 2020 Geoff Tessarolo’s life changed forever.

At just nine months old, his son Beckett was diagnosed with leukemia, kicking off a terrifying journey. 

“Beckett had not been acting like himself, and after a trip to our family doctor and some bloodwork we learned the horrible news,” said Tessarolo, CFO at VanMar Constructors. “We received the diagnosis late at night from our dedicated family physician, and within an hour we were on our way to BC Children’s Hospital in a state of shock, unsure of what would happen next.”

18 months of out-patient maintenance chemotherapy followed, with countless appointments and lab visits to monitor along the way. For the family, life could not have been more stressful, chaotic and uncertain. Thanks to immense support and an incredible medical team, Beckett recently celebrated his sixth birthday, finished his first year of school and season playing hockey and is, most importantly, cancer free.

“Beyond the difficult days our family endured, we gained unbelievable perspective, and a deeper connection and appreciation for our family, friends, and community,” Tessarolo said. “The experience also left us with immense gratitude to everyone that cared for Beckett along the way and motivated us to give back to this community however we can.”

That’s why Tessarolo and other construction professionals have banded together to help those facing blood cancers. Born in the early days of the pandemic in 2020, the Construction Industry Challenge for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC) began when three leaders from competing construction firms in Montreal united for a greater cause: to raise critical funds for Canadians affected by blood cancers. Their collaboration sparked a movement that has since raised over $750,000 and has expanded to Halifax, Ottawa, and now Vancouver. 

It’s the kind of collaboration that the industry was built on. From laying the foundation to the final touches, every leader plays a role in completing something meaningful—together. That same spirit drives this initiative forward, as the industry unites once again to build a world without blood cancer.

Last year, the Construction Industry Challenge raised over $150,000. This year, it aims to grow even further with the introduction of the Vancouver market by rallying its exceptional general contractors, developers, and trade contractors to support patients and families impacted by blood cancers.

Tessarolo explained that his family directly benefited from the research and advancements made in treatment therapies and protocols supported by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada. This has motivated them to help others that are currently experiencing or will experience a life altering blood cancer diagnosis. VanMar has been instrumental in helping to raise crucial funds to support the LLSC, its funded researchers as well as patient resources. 

“VanMar remains committed and I am incredibly grateful and proud to have them participate in this year’s inaugural Construction Industry Challenge for Vancouver,” he said.

Why join the Construction Industry Challenge?

• Support a cause that matters – Your impact directly fuels life-saving research and patient care for those fighting blood cancers and the more than 20,000 Canadians that will be diagnosed this year. 
• Engage your company and team – Build morale and unite your workplace for a meaningful cause.
• Gain industry recognition – Be highlighted in media, construction publications and at Light The Night.

The construction industry has the power to make a real difference. Join VanMar, Bird, Peterson, FIRST ONSITE, Long Life Windows & Doors, and others in this challenge.

For more information on the Construction Industry Challenge or the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada please contact Ben Neumer, Campaign Director, 604-314-9100, ben.neumer@lls.org, or, click here.