Anne's Light Myeloma Cancer Foundation - Media

Province-wide August 8 event will raise funds for multiple myeloma research, patient support and blood donation through participating Fairgrounds Racket Club locations

TORONTO, ON, May 26, 2026 - Anne’s Light Myeloma Foundation and Fairgrounds Racket Club today announced the launch of Smashing Myeloma, a province-wide Ontario pickleball fundraiser taking place on August 8, 2026, in support of multiple myeloma research, patient support and blood donation.

The campaign was inspired by Anne Tulett, an avid pickleball player, world traveller, mother, grandmother and myeloma warrior, whose family created Anne’s Light Myeloma Foundation to honour her legacy and help shine a light on a blood cancer that continues to affect Canadian families.

Registration and fundraising officially open on June 1, 2026. Participants can create a fundraising page, raise a minimum of $100, and secure a spot to play at a participating Fairgrounds Racket Club location on August 8. Supporters who do not wish to play can also donate directly to a registered fundraiser or to the campaign.

“My mom loved pickleball because it brought people together, and that is exactly what we hope Smashing Myeloma will do,” said Kelly Tulett, Founder and Managing Director, Anne’s Light Myeloma Foundation. “She faced myeloma with courage, warmth and an incredible love for the people around her. This campaign is a way to carry her light forward while raising awareness and funds for families affected by this disease. Anne's husband Leonard, sons David and Mickey, and daughter Kelly and the entire Tulett family are deeply dedicated to Anne's legacy.” 

Multiple Myeloma is a form of blood cancer affecting plasma cells in the bone marrow. It is the second most common form of blood cancer, and while treatments and overall survival are improving, there is still no cure. Every day, appx. 11 Canadians are diagnosed with myeloma.

As pickleball participation surges across Canada, Smashing Myeloma turns one of the country’s fastest-growing recreational sports into a platform for cancer awareness and community fundraising. According to Pickleball Canada, 1.54 million Canadians now play pickleball, with Ontario home to the highest number of players.

“Pickleball has a unique ability to bring people of all ages and skill levels onto the same court,” said Vanesa Rodriguez, Events Director, Fairgrounds Racket Club. “We are honoured to support 

Anne’s Light by opening our clubs across Ontario and helping turn play into purpose for a cause that deserves greater awareness.”

Registered fundraisers will also have the opportunity to participate in free clinics sponsored by Adidas Pickleball in July. The clinics will help both beginners and experienced players build confidence on the court while creating momentum ahead of the August 8 event.

The August 8 event will take place at participating Fairgrounds Racket Club locations across Ontario, including Leaside, Rosehill, Cloverdale, Assembly Park - Vaughan, Kingston, Whitby, Hamilton and Ottawa, with a potential player capacity of more than 2,000 participants.

Smashing Myeloma will also be supported by community partners, sponsors and prize contributors, with announcements and activations rolling out throughout the campaign. Top fundraisers will be entered to win a Club Med grand prize trip to the Caribbean, along with many other incredible sponsor prizes.

Movement is a key influencer in the progression of this cancer, and exercise is important and should be doctor approved. “We want people to pick up a racket, have fun and be part of something bigger,” added Tulett. “Whether you are a lifelong player, brand new to pickleball, or simply someone who wants to support families affected by myeloma, this is a chance to play in Anne’s honour and help shine a light on this disease.”

To register, create a fundraising page or donate to a participant, visit: fundrazr.com/smashingmyeloma.

About Anne’s Light Myeloma Foundation

Anne’s Light Myeloma Foundation is a registered Canadian charity created by the Tulett family in memory of Anne Tulett, a Windsor-Essex County, Ontario resident, avid pickleball player, world traveler and beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend who passed away from myeloma in late 2023. The foundation honours Anne’s legacy by raising awareness and funds for multiple myeloma research, patient support in Canada and blood donation. For more information, visit anneslight.ca. There are many ways to get involved and support our cause. You can make a donation, become a volunteer, or even organize a fundraising event in your community. Whatever you choose, know that your contribution will make a difference in the lives of those in need.