The battle against cancer became personal in 2023, when I was diagnosed with Early Stage Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. Self-sought genetic testing identified a CHEK2 pathogenic variant, an inherited mutation linked to increased risk for breast cancer as well as other cancers. This additional information has been actionable to my care, resulting in revised treatment protocols and enhanced longterm surveillance.

My genetic status triggered extensive screening of my blood relatives. Several family members have already tested positive for this mutation, prompting enhanced surveillance, and more testing continues. Sadly, my Father’s CHEK2 mutation was identified shortly after he had already passed from cancer, too late for him to benefit from increased screening and diagnostics.

To show my support for the thousands of Canadians diagnosed with breast cancer every year, I am participating and fundraising for this year’s Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure. 

 

With your help, I can reach my fundraising goal and make a life-changing difference for so many people. Every dollar I raise will fund groundbreaking breast cancer research and support programs and services for those impacted by this disease. 

 

Please donate today. I believe better treatment options and survival outcomes are possible, especially with increased accessibility to genetic testing and screening. 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.