Earlier this year, I decided that it was time to accept the fact that I was now in my 40s and it might be smart to take more control of my health. I had not been to a doctor since pre-covid days, so I make an appointment for a physical in June. Prior to that appointment, my mom had reminded me that the screening age for mammograms in Ontario was dropping from 50 to 40 this fall so maybe I could ask to get my first one sooner than later. I figured why not? It would probably be smart to get a base line as early as possible, so I asked my doctor and she thought it was a great idea as well.

On August 7, I had my first mammogram. The following day, I received a call asking me to come back for another. On August 12, I had my second mammogram and within hours of my appointment, I received a call from my doctor saying that they found something suspicious and that a biopsy was recommended. I had my breast core biopsy done on August 26 and on September 3rd, I learned that I have breast cancer – ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)/an early-stage breast cancer to be exact. I was shocked (still am!) at the diagnosis because there is no history in my family and I had/have zero symptoms. I am also trying to be thankful, because had I not gone for this screening, I would be looking at a much worse diagnosis years from now.

I am still waiting for my surgical consultation to find out what my next steps are, but again I find myself thankful because I’m close to a reputable hospital and cancer centre so I will be in good hands.

To show my support for myself and 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.