AMY’S HOUSE
A Home Away from Home For Cancer Patients
Amy’s House offers free accommodations for families who must travel more than 100 km to Edmonton for cancer treatments. Now consisting of two homes located side by side, Amy’s House is just a 12-minute drive from three key hospitals: the Royal Alexandra Hospital, the University of Alberta Hospital, and the Cross Cancer Institute.
Each home hosts one family at a time, typically for extended stays ranging from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the patient’s treatment schedule. These homes provide a safe and comfortable environment, allowing families the privacy and space they need during their stay, similar to being in their own home. This proximity to treatment centers provides much-needed convenience during a challenging time, helping to ease both the emotional and logistical burdens faced by patients and their loved ones.
HISTORY /AMY ALAIN
In May 2018, 37-year-old Amy Alain, a mother of two and devoted wife to Phil Alain, was diagnosed with stage 3b non-small cell adenocarcinoma lung cancer. Amy, an ultra-runner, triathlete, and fitness instructor, was the picture of health, making the diagnosis a complete shock to her family and friends. Determined to raise awareness about lung cancer and dispel the myth that it only affects smokers, Amy launched the Lunges for Lung Cancer campaign. For eight months, she committed to doing lunges daily, even from her hospital room, spreading her message: “If you have lungs, you can get lung cancer.”
Amy’s inspiring journey touched thousands, as she raised awareness about the seriousness of lung cancer while fighting her own battle. Sadly, on February 22, 2019, Amy passed away, but her legacy of strength and compassion continues.
One of Amy's final wishes was to create a home where cancer patients, especially those from out of town, could stay while undergoing treatment. She had often spoken to fellow patients who had to endure long, exhausting drives back and forth for radiation or chemotherapy, further taxing their health.
On September 28, 2019, what would have been Amy’s 39th birthday, Amy’s House 1 officially opened. This home provided a sanctuary for patients and their families, offering a place of comfort during an incredibly challenging time. In May 2023, a second home opened, expanding the reach of her dream. Both homes provide a comforting environment, helping to ease the emotional and physical burdens of cancer treatment.
Amy’s House represents the fulfillment of her dream—to provide support, convenience, and comfort for families in need, just as she and her own family were fortunate enough to receive during her journey.
