A journey from health care provider, to patient, to cancer advocate
In 2023, Catherine, a retired nurse from Regina, became a patient herself as she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Catherine’s journey to diagnosis was one that happened over many years. In 2021, she noticed a lump in her breast and was told by her clinic it was benign. The following year at a checkup, she was reassured yet again that it was probably benign. In 2023, her lump had gotten larger, and she had additional symptoms like very intense hot flashes. Catherine went to her doctor and asked for a biopsy as she was concerned. Catherine’s doctor suggested they start with a mammogram and then if they felt it was required, they would order a biopsy.
Even with a lump that had significantly grown in size, Catherine was not seen for her mammogram for almost six weeks. From there, it was determined she would require a breast biopsy, which took another month. From the date of her doctor’s appointment until her surgery, Catherine waited five months while her lump continued to grow. Additionally, Catherine’s biopsy was being conducted in Calgary, so she had to organize travel and accommodations. Additionally, currently in Regina, there are only two surgeons conducting breast cancer surgeries.
Catherine was very fortunate to have her husband, family and friends by her side to support her while undergoing testing and surgery. Additionally, Facebook groups like “Breast Friends” provided Catherine with comfort and information from those also being treated for breast cancer. Unfortunately, Catherine’s brother was also diagnosed with cancer at the same time. For Catherine, this meant that they could lean on each during this difficult time, and it taught her that support can go both ways.
Catherine’s message to those who may have been recently diagnosed or undergoing treatment is to never stop advocating for yourself. Don’t be scared of potential repercussions. You are your own best advocate.
Catherine’s message to elected officials is to ensure there are trained nurses and doctors across the country. There are now only two breast cancer surgeons in Regina, when there used to be seven. We need to have doctors, nurses and a cancer care system that is there to support people when and where they need it. Elected officials need to invest in and commit to improving cancer care for all Canadians that are and, in the future, will be, impacted by cancer.
There are far too many similar stories as Canadians are waiting to be a priority. Cancer Action Now is working to bring forward challenges experienced by Canadians living with cancer in accessing timely, high-quality cancer care, and calling on policy makers to make cancer care a priority.
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