This year alone, it’s estimated that 28,600 Canadian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. This represents 25 per cent of all new cancer cases in women in 2022, according to The Canadian Cancer Society.
A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, and the immediate focus is typically around treatment and next steps. But we can’t underestimate the power of emotional support.
Jessica Cheng, a twelfth grader at St. Clements School in Toronto, knows this better than anyone as she lost her own mom to the disease. To honour her mother’s legacy, she launched a school-wide initiative asking students to create cards with words of hope and reassurance for breast cancer patients. With the help of our Peter Gilgan Centre, these cards will be distributed to those who need it most.
Cheer and kindness can go a long way, particularly in challenging situations. Sometimes, a sweet message or short note of encouragement can inspire renewed hope. From personal experience, Jess saw the power of words and put together a meaningful initiative that can speak to 28,600 women.
For more information about cancer-related services and resources, please visit The Peter Gilgan Centre for Women’s Cancers at Women’s College Hospital.