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Supporting Canadians on their breast cancer journey

On average every day, 75 Canadians hear the words “you have breast cancer.” Thanks to the support of our incredible donors, we are changing the way breast cancer is treated by improving outcomes and saving lives, all while supporting Canadians at every stage of their breast cancer journey.

Our vitally important support system helps people better manage life with breast cancer, find community and connection, and access information and resources about their diagnosis. Here are some of the ways we make a real difference for people affected by breast cancer.

Providing information and resources about breast cancer

Many people facing a breast cancer diagnosis may be overwhelmed and not know where to look for information between doctors’ appointments. That’s why people like Sharon Sandhawalia turned to our Cancer Information Helpline (1-888-939-3333) to get information and resources from trained specialists. For Sharon, our helpline provided information about breast reconstruction options and gave her the opportunity to connect with others on a similar journey.

“I would tell anyone facing cancer to get in touch with the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) for information and support through their Cancer Information Helpline,” said Sharon. “With the Cancer Information Helpline, I feel like I can ask anything and get accurate answers about my diagnosis.”

 
Sharon Sandhawalia

Creating community and connection for people affected by breast cancer

As a social worker, Kim Sutherland supported clients and their families through life-changing illnesses, but when she was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after her 56th birthday, she needed a support system of her own. Through CancerConnection.ca, our online community for people affected by cancer and their loved ones, Kim found comfort from others who had also faced a breast cancer diagnosis and knew what she was going through.

“CCS provided me with connection – connection to a community, so I didn’t feel alone, connection to information, so I felt informed and empowered by knowledge, and connected me to others who understood the emotional and physical journey of cancer,” says Kim.

Kim Sutherland

Helping to make living with breast cancer easier

After losing her hair as a result of her breast cancer treatment, Cynthia Denault felt as if she had lost a piece of her identity. This experience led her to a CCS wig bank where she was able to try on a variety of wigs, ultimately finding one she loved, which was provided to her free-of-cost.

“Receiving a real-hair wig from CCS helped me feel like myself again. It was important for me to find a wig that matched my personality and it was great to find one that was right for me,” says Cynthia.

This October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and now more than ever, we need your support to create a world where no one fears breast cancer. This year, being physically apart won’t stop us from coming together as a force-for-life in the face of breast cancer.

Join us for the reimagined CIBC Run for the Cure on October 4, to help raise much-needed funds for groundbreaking research and the largest breast cancer support system in the country.
Cynthia Denault