Hi, my name is Nicole and I was diagnosed with breast cancer in the summer of 2023.  I am an example of how early detection and screening is so important!  I turned 50 in the later part of 2022 and was eligible for the breast cancer screening program. Being a teacher, I put off scheduling my mammogram til the summer.  I had my mammogram at the end of June 2023.  A few days later, I was called back for a follow up mammogram and an ultrasound. Again, a few days later, I was contacted to schedule a biopsy.  The results came back with a confirmation of breast cancer - tubular carcinoma, stage one.  To say it was a whirlwind of a summer is an understatement!  On October 4th 2023, I had a partial mastectomy (lumpectomy) with the removal of one sentinel node.  My tumour was very small, measuring about 0.7 cm, but deep enough that I would not have detected it that early on my own doing self exam! After a period of recovery from surgery, I had 15 rounds of radiation at the Windsor Cancer center and am now on medication to stop the production of hormones as my cancer was estrogen and progesterone positive and HER2 negative.  I am currently in remission and I am thankful for the excellent care I received both in Chatham and Windsor! I am also extremely grateful and fortunate that my cancer was caught early.  I encourage everyone to schedule that mammogram!  

I am a person that believes everything happens for a reason and for me, my journey has taught me many life lessons!  I was and am fortunate to be surrounded and supported by my husband and three children along with family and friends.  This will be my first time participating in the CIBC Run for the Cure, it is my way of giving back and to show support for others affected by breast cancer.