There's a new person at the helm of Central Plains Cancer Care. Sharilyn Knox has been named the new executive director for the organization, following Judy Sauder's move to Ontario. Knox had officially started in the position on August 15th but only spent a week-and-a-half in the role before taking pre-booked holidays. She returned to the office yesterday morning and says she's really looking forward to serving in the position. Knox says Central Plains Cancer Care provides great services to Portage and the surrounding communities, so decided to become a part of the organization wasn't a difficult decision.

"Cancer affects everybody. You can probably talk to anybody and it has impacted their life in some way. The organization has been around for a long time, it has been well run. I want to do something in my life where I can help people, and that's what we're here for."

Knox has worked in many service-type industries in the past and has no shortage of experience in the non-profit realm both with the Portage Plains United Way, and United Ways in other communities. She feels that experience, combined with her previous work in the service industry will have benefits in the new position.

During her first week, she was able to learn the ropes while working with Sauder. Knox says what really stands out from that experience was just how well supported the organization is, and what they've been able to accomplish since it was started in 1998.

"It was started by a group of really dedicated individuals that saw the need in our community and surrounding area. They've kept that running for the last 18 years. We know we need to raise funds to make sure the people in our area are supported, and that the services we offer are what they need."

Knox says while she's fairly new to the role, she has some big ideas for the future. She says they're always looking for opportunities to better serve their clients, in an effort to expand their impact on the Central Plains area.