by Steph Troughton
Forty-eight-year-old Surrey father and Simon Fraser University (SFU) Pipe Band member Andrew Bonar is the inspiration behind a fundraising performance benefiting cancer research scheduled for March 28.
Bonar was diagnosed with brain cancer last fall. He underwent a complicated operation to remove a tumour from the left side of his brain, which was discovered after he developed headaches and problems with balance and coordination.
Ranked as one of the world's best pipers, Bonar, who has been with the SFU band for 35 years, has been to the World Pipe Band Championships 29 times, sharing in the ensemble's six world champion titles and more than 20 finishes in the top three.
Band founder, Surrey resident and longtime friend Jack Lee, says the news about Bonar was devastating.
"Andrew is a great person, a great friend and a great piper," said Lee who added Bonar played the bagpipes at Lee's wedding. "We are thrilled to have this opportunity to show our respect and admiration of Andrew."
Pipe Up For Cancer will be held at SFU Theatre in Burnaby and is scheduled from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The event will also feature the Heather Jolley Highland Dancers, which includes Bonar's 10-year-old daughter Kate.
All funds from the concert will go to the BC Cancer Foundation, as requested by Bonar.
Tickets ($35) include a burger and beverage. For more information, visit www.sfupb.com