CALGARY — A pair of Edmonton philanthropists have donated $5 million to the University of Calgary to expand research and services for patients with lymphedema.
The money from Dianne and Irving Kipnes will be used toward development of a lymphatic imaging suite, education development, and support for recruitment of new researchers.
Lymphedema is a chronic infection often associated with excessive swelling because the lymphatic system fails to drain fluid, cells and proteins away from tissues within the body.
It is often a complication arising from the treatment of various cancers and melanoma.
Dianne Kipnes says she suffered from lymphedema after her own cancer treatment and knows about devastating it can be.
Irving Kipnes is an Edmonton land developer who also owns the Liquor Depot chain.
He is a member of the Alberta Order of Excellence.