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.