John’s Story

At 81 years old, John Savage is a well-known and respected member of the Sudbury community. A teacher for more than 30 years, father of former NHL player Brian Savage, and a passionate advocate for healthcare in the North, John is sharing his cancer journey to highlight the exceptional care available at Health Sciences North (HSN).

In 2022, John noticed what appeared to be a small blemish on his scalp. It quickly grew and was diagnosed as Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer few people have ever heard of. His treatment has included surgery, multiple PET and CT scans, 57 rounds of radiation, and nearly two years of immunotherapy.

Throughout it all, John speaks with deep gratitude for the teams at HSN who guided him through every step of care, from diagnosis through treatment and recovery.

“After my third immunotherapy treatment, my tumours quickly began to disappear,” says John. “I know I am extremely fortunate.”

He credits the surgeons, oncologists, nurses, and staff who supported him through what was an intense and often overwhelming journey, all close to home in Northeastern Ontario.

During treatment, John was moved by the way patients mark milestones in their care. In the radiation department, they ring a loud bell to celebrate completion of their treatments, a moment filled with emotion and relief. In the chemotherapy suite, however, he noticed only a small, rather quiet, handheld bell.

Wanting every patient to have that same sense of recognition and hope, John donated a wall-mounted brass bell to the chemotherapy suite in memory of his son, who passed away from esophageal cancer.

Today, the sound of that bell carries through the unit, marking moments of strength, courage, and completion for patients and families.

Now finished his treatments and having his own chance to ring that bell, John continues to advocate for HSN and the importance of investing in exceptional healthcare in the North. Even while supporting his wife through her own health issues, he remains committed to giving back and sharing his story.

His journey is a reminder of the impact of philanthropy in shaping not only care, but the moments that help patients feel seen, supported, and celebrated.