Radiation therapy: two words that sounded surreal when I heard them attached to my cancer treatment plan. I knew what radiation was, technically, but I was clueless about what the actual experience would be like or how it would affect me. Mostly because my oncology team had described it and its potential side effects in vague terms. Apparently, this isn’t unusual for women like me who’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer.

There was a total of three oncologists from different areas of care that I would meet along the way. Then there is my plastic surgeon! The beginnings of a joke. Three oncologists and a plastic surgeon go into a bar... If you have a good joke for this scenario, I would love to hear it. But this is the thought that keeps popping into my head every time I am told about my surgical team.

As my towel brushed past the bottom of my right breast, I couldn’t help noticing that something didn’t feel right. Broken glass? It felt like broken glass. Is that possible? Could I have broken my boob? Can you break a boob? My mind began to swirl toward real questions then to ones that were clearly insane and made no sense... and yet, I asked them out loud... to myself... in the mirror.

In recent years, cannabis has become a potentially valuable tool to help manage symptoms caused by cancer and its treatment. While the plant has been used medicinally for centuries, modern scientific interest has focused on its potential to lessen pain or nausea, and to improve appetite or anxiety—common challenges faced by people living with cancer. Although cannabis is not a cure for the disease, its role in improving quality of life is increasingly being studied by researchers.

I vividly remember the first night, after I found out I had breast cancer. I was lying in bed, wide awake with my eyes closed, listening to Trixie the cat purring beside me. My body was heavy, but my mind was wild, racing with thoughts of nothing and everything all mashed together. That was the beginning of a new kind of insomnia. Not the kind where you just can’t fall asleep, but the kind where sleep feels like something you used to do in a different lifetime but can’t access any more.

Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers worldwide. While progress in early detection and treatment has significantly improved survival rates over the past few decades, continued advancement depends on clinical trials. These research studies are the foundation of medical progress, playing a vital role in finding better ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat breast cancer.

Every October, the world turns pink to highlight Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Social media floods with pink ribbons, brands roll out special edition products, and awareness campaigns gain momentum. But for those impacted by breast cancer, whether they’ve been diagnosed themselves, have a loved one who has, or work in research or care, the experience lasts well beyond one month a year.

Metastatic breast cancer may come back months or even years after the original diagnosis and treatment. Even after successful treatment, some cancer cells may stay in the body without being detected. This can be a scary and overwhelming experience but understanding what’s happening and what to expect can help you make informed decisions about your health.

Not long ago, I felt confident about my post-cancer status. Like I was finally rising above and beyond being just a breast cancer survivor. That I could actually do real-life things and shake off some of the lingering shadows. It felt good and empowering, and suddenly, I was ready to take on new challenges. So, I did, by swimming laps at the community centre pool. And boy, did I suck at it horribly.

With the 2025 federal election underway, many of us are thinking about the issues that matter most. These uncertain economic times are at the top of our minds, and ensuring access to healthcare is a crucial part of that. Here are some of the most important healthcare issues to consider in relation to the election.

Going through breast cancer treatment can take a toll on your skin, making it more sensitive to issues like dryness, itching, rashes, and hyperpigmentation (where skin patches become darker), to name a few. While skin problems may seem less urgent compared to serious side effects like heart complications or neutropenia, they can still greatly impact your daily life.

Warm weather is just around the corner, and although traveling during or after breast cancer treatment may not be the first thing that comes to mind, it can be safe and even beneficial for your mental wellbeing. Depending on your treatment plan and how your body responds, travel might be possible; however, some individuals may need to wait until their treatment is complete. The key is to consult your healthcare team to ensure travel aligns with your treatment plan and take these tips into consideration.

If you are faced with a breast cancer diagnosis, timely access to care is crucial, but each person will experience wait times in a different way. For some, a bit of waiting is a normal part of the process and is not necessarily cause for concern. For others, delays can cause anxiety and impact the course of their treatment. When navigating the uncertainties of a breast cancer diagnosis, understanding wait times and their potential impacts on health outcomes is essential. That’s why it is important to know what to expect and take the necessary steps in case you experience long delays.

Many people diagnosed with breast cancer experience fear of recurrence. While some level of fear is natural, excessive and persistent fear can negatively impact your quality of life. Signs that fears are interfering with your daily life and wellbeing include heightened anxiety, trouble making decisions, difficulty completing daily tasks, and a greater risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression. Being able to recognize the intensity and frequency of these fears is necessary to be able to manage them effectively.

While mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are now well-publicized, there are other, lesser-known genetic mutations which can significantly increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer as well. Understanding these genetic risks allows individuals to make informed decisions about their health, from preventive measures to early detection strategies. Here, we discuss the lesser-known genetic mutations that can also impact the risk of developing breast cancer.

March 3^rd is recognized as Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) Day. While its aggressive nature and fewer treatment options can be distressing for those living with TNBC, access to information and support resources also continues to grow and improve. Seeking help, staying informed, and keeping in tune with your own experiences and emotions can help you feel more in control of your journey. Here, we present a list of educational and support resources for those diagnosed with TNBC.

Recently, a woman from Alberta, who is dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis, reached out to me on Instagram. We’d connected before and shared parts of our breast cancer experiences with each other, so it was great to hear from her again. This time, though, instead of a written update she sent me a video clip from season two of The Big C, a television series currently on Prime TV. The show stars actor Laura Linney as Cathy, a suburban mom diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma and in the scene, Cathy advises a group of young medical students on how to treat their cancer patients.

Some people require additional imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI, due to factors like dense breasts or increased risk from BRCA gene mutations or family history. False positives on a mammogram can often lead to unnecessary biopsies. Despite these challenges, mammograms and other screening tools remain essential. This emphasizes the importance of advancing screening technology and pathology, which is where AI shows promise for improving outcomes.

When it comes to breast cancer prevention, many factors come into play—genetics, environment, and lifestyle choices. While we can’t control our genes, we do have the power to influence our health through diet, exercise, and other habits. Over the years, research has pointed to various lifestyle factors that may either increase or reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

As we look back on 2024, we take a moment to reflect. This year has been one of growth, impact, and unwavering commitment to supporting breast cancer patients and their caregivers. Through donations, advocacy, networking, and your stories we've made significant progress in raising awareness, bringing you critical research, and providing vital resources and education for patients and their families.