An estimated 27,700 women and 260 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in Canada.

To show my support for all Canadians impacted by breast cancer, I am participating and fundraising for this year’s Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure on Sunday, October 6, 2024.

My first diagnosis in 2007-2008 was full of doctor’s appointments, surgery, chemo and radiation. My second diagnosis in 2015 was the same breast but a different cancer. It was a totally different journey than the first and the decisions I needed to make were about the physical. This is where I made the decision to lose a part of myself by having a double mastectomy to live a long and healthy life. It is not a decision made lightly, since I really only needed to remove one breast. Did I want to deal with this diagnosis again? Absolutely not! My head knows it was the right thing to do, but my heart hurt so much. My heart did heal.

I am very blessed in so many ways, and I was surrounded by those who love and care for me: family, friends, doctors, nurses, and colleagues. I draw on their strength and support to help guide me through. It can be a lonely journey if you allow it. I cannot forget to mention God who plays one of the biggest roles in my life, even though I do not give Him enough credit or thank Him enough for all the blessings of my life! In my heart, I know He walks each and every step with me, and I love Him for his unconditional love.

I am delighted to report that I have come out the other side with a bright outlook and am 8 years cancer free. I choose to be happy!

I choose to look into the future rather than the past. The past teaches great lessons, but the future is what I look forward to. The future is where my hopes and dreams live and I choose to live and share them with all who choose to be a part of my life! That includes the wonderful man in my life. We were just married in June of 2023. My dreams are coming true.

Please donate today. I believe better treatment options and survival outcomes are possible. Together, we can give Canadians impacted by breast cancer a reason to have hope. And we can help change the future for all.

Thank you! I appreciate your generous support.

P.S. Did you know? A $75 donation can fund a clinical trial for someone with breast cancer to test new treatments to save lives and give hope to countless others.