The ACTION Centre
Alberta Complementary Therapy and Integrative Oncology Centre
KOOPMANS LECTURE 2026
Learn More about True North Treks
The Healing Power of Nature:
From Research to Real Lives
Join us for the 2026 Koopmans Lecture featuring David E. Victorson, licensed psychologist, Professor at Northwestern University, and leader in integrative oncology research.
​
In this public lecture, Dr. Victorson will explore how mindfulness, social connection, engagement with nature, and positive health behaviours can support well-being and resilience for individuals affected by cancer. Drawing on both research and real-world experience, the presentation will examine the important role that connection—to ourselves, to others, and to the natural world—can play in supportive cancer care.
​
Dr. Victorson is also co-founder and volunteer executive director of True North Treks, a nonprofit organization that supports teens, young adults, and caregivers affected by cancer through nature-based experiences focused on reflection, healing, and connection.
​
The evening will be hosted by David Spence, a familiar and trusted voice in Calgary, who will also share his personal experience with cancer and his connection to nature.
ARE YOU JOINING US?
OUR MISSION
The mission of the ACTION Centre is to promote and facilitate evidence-based integrative oncology care throughout Alberta and beyond through patient and healthcare provider education, clinical service, research and training.
​
Integrative Oncology (IO),as defined by the Society for Integrative Oncology (www.integrativeonc.org) is “a patient-centered, evidence-informed field of cancer care that utilizes mind and body practices, natural products, and/or lifestyle modifications from different traditions alongside conventional cancer treatments."
Integrative oncology aims to optimize health, quality of life, and clinical outcomes across the cancer care continuum and to empower people to prevent cancer and become active participants before, during, and beyond cancer treatment
​
IO includes interdisciplinary care blended throughout cancer care as necessary for each person, employing a collaborative team approach which is patient-centered. Treatments are devised through a partnership between the patient and a range of practitioners, meant to promote health and wellness, prevention of disease and to bring out the innate healing capacity in each person.