I was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer in 2019, at 40 yrs old. I underwent multiple surgeries and 5 month of grueling chemotherapy. Diagnosed at Stage 1, my chances of a cure were good   or so we thought.  I learned of my family's hereditary cancer genetics as a carrier of a BRCA1 mutation (same as Angelina Jolie made famous many years ago). I wanted to learn everything I could about this, so I immediately connected and began volunteering in cancer and genetics research.

In 2021 after briefly returning to work, cancer returned, this time spreading to my spleen.  I underwent another round of surgery and more chemotherapy.   A new type of medication has kept me in remission so far.  It's not a cure, but is helping to delay my cancer's progression - and I will take it!!   I'm spending my days living my best life and making lots of memories with family land friends.    I've worked as a volunteer, educator and fierce advocate in a variety of public and health care settings to spread awareness and provide input from a patient’s perspective about Ovarian Cancer and hereditary and familial cancer genetics.

I also help those newly diagnosed in properly advocating for themselves and connecting with support services while navigating the cancer landscape.  I find great pride in sharing my story and lived experience input to many different projects and events in a variety of private, research, clinical and public areas including Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation, Ovarian Cancer Canada, AstraZeneca, University of Ottawa, University of British Columbia, Abbey Retreat Centre, OCC’s Survivors Teaching Students (STS) program, social media, print and radio platforms.

In 2022, I proudly lobbied the Federal Government of Canada encouraging further investment and funding for desperately needed ovarian cancer research.  

CANCER AFFECTS US ALL!!    Please join me in supporting the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation's amazing new fundraising campaign - SHOW US YOUR BRAVE!!!!