Ceremonial gong stolen from Waterloo Region’s cancer centre

The empty stand at the Waterloo Regional Health Network Cancer Centre (left), and the ceremonial gong before it was taken (right). (Source: WRHN Foundation)

A ceremonial gong has gone missing from a cancer centre in Kitchener, Ont.

The gong is used by patients to mark major milestones in their treatment at the Waterloo Regional Health Network Cancer Centre.

The hospital said they were “deeply disheartened by the disappearance.”

“This gong is more than an object, it represents resilience, hope and the strength of patients along their cancer journeys,” Desa Hobbs, vice-president of the WRHN Cancer Centre, said in an email to CTV News. “While we are saddened that it was taken, we want to reassure our community that the WRHN Foundation is in the process of replacing it so patients can continue to celebrate these powerful moments. We remain committed to supporting our patients and ensuring these traditions endure. We appreciate the community’s understanding and support.”

The Waterloo Regional Police Service has not released details about when the gong went missing or whether any suspects have been identified.

More to come.