The odds of coincidental and similar cancer diagnosis are astronomical, but Laura Daly is convinced her brother and his best friend will triumph.

Ms Daly’s 27-year-old sibling, Ryan, was diagnosed with leukemia last April. His best friend, also 27, who asked to remain anonymous, received the same news one year ago.

Both Markham men are undergoing treatment at Princess Margaret Hospital, where health professionals are dismayed at the rarity of the case.

“They’re floored,” Ms Daly said. “Leukemia is a mystery and so is the situation of two close friends having the same thing. They say it could be environmental.”

Her brother will require a bone marrow transplant, she said.

Adding to the bizarre circumstance is the fact Ms Daly and her brother organized fundraising golf tournaments for several years before the disease affected the young men.

In the past, their annual event supported charities including The Make A Wish Children’s Foundation and the Canadian Cancer Society.

This year the focus is a bit more personal.

The “Get Wrec’d” charity tournament at Rolling Hills Golf and Country Club in Gormley is this Saturday. The 1:30 p.m. shotgun start is fully booked, Ms Daly said, but people wishing to contribute to the cause are welcome.

To date, more than $3,000 has been raised on behalf of cancer research and treatment at Princess Margaret. More money is anticipated after the event’s silent auction and participant’s fees.

“The objective is to raise funds and awareness for the signs and symptoms of leukemia and how bone marrow transplants can help patients,” she said. Ryan and his best bud remain close, going to treatments together. “Both are the most amazing people I know,” Ms Daly said. “They’re doing well. They’re strong and positive, but it is day-to-day.”

For information or to contribute, e-mail Ms Daly at spor_tee_44@yahoo.ca.