I am running for Tanja this year.  She has been a friend for 30+ years and this is her story:

In Canada, an estimated 27,700 women and 260 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Depending on your postal code, your healthcare varies. The province you live in should not dictate the level of women’s health. My last ‘clear’ regular mammogram in late 2021 missed my cancer, and my request for supplemental screening was denied, just like other NS women with dense breasts at higher risk. When I became sick, my pain was repeatedly ignored by my doctor as menopausal. I fractured my hip in early 2023 around the same time I found my own tumor. Even with a biopsy scheduled, I still had to demand an xray/CT scan from my doctor. I was eventually diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer, extensive bone metastases.

Advocate for your health, you know your own body.

My first run, I needed a cane to walk and was unable to drive. With treatment guided by my oncology team, I am stronger now and hope to be eligible for surgery.

My team’s fundraising will go toward a variety of important needs. What I have, metastatic breast cancer (MBC), is underfunded. I’ve set a personal goal of $2,500, the minimum level at which Run for the Cure will allow me to designate my donations toward MBC research to improve treatment options for women living with terminal breast cancer.

Stage IV is incurable, but there is always hope. I am running with the support of my family and friends. I run for my friends and colleagues passed and present with breast cancer, either caring for themselves or loved ones, at every stage of the disease. I support CIBC through donation, fundraise with the Pink Panthers breast cancer support group (all my donations will count toward my team’s total), and advocate with Dense Breasts Canada. I am inspired by the countless strong women making a difference in their own way to help the breast cancer community.

It means a lot to me to ensure that the donations I raise individually go toward MBC research. Thanks so much for your support.

I am honored to be part of her team. Please help me support her goals, her dream, and her fight.

Anne