If you’ve ever wondered what role the federal government plays in your healthcare (especially after a breast cancer diagnosis), you’re not alone. Many people may be surprised to learn that while the federal government helps fund healthcare, it doesn’t directly provide hospital or doctor services. Still, it plays several important roles that can affect your treatment and care. Here’s a breakdown of what the federal government does do, how it can matter to you, and some ways you can get involved in advocacy.

Are you ready to lace up your running shoes for a great cause? On October 18 and 19, 2025, thousands of participants will hit the streets for the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, and this year, you can make every step count by fundraising for the Canadian Breast Cancer Network (CBCN)!

About 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases are passed down through families. Sometimes, several people in a family may have breast or other types of cancer, even if no specific gene mutation is found. This is called familial breast cancer. Having a family history can raise your risk, but it doesn’t always mean the cancer is genetic.

When going through breast cancer, you often hear about different kinds of tests like scans, biopsies, and blood work. One new kind of test that’s starting to gain attention uses ctDNA or circulating tumour DNA. You may also hear it called a liquid biopsy. But what is it? And how could it help in breast cancer care?

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.