Breast Cancer Connection

In this episode, Dr. Christine Brezden-Masley breaks down the overwhelming medical language to help patients make sense of key metastatic breast cancer terminology so they can make informed decisions from diagnosis to treatment. The podcast will also touch on helpful resources for patients that want to learn more. This podcast episode was supported by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc. About Dr. Christine Brezden-Masley Dr. Christine Brezden-Masley, is a Medical Oncologist at Moun...

You may not know where to start when it comes to selecting metastatic breast cancer treatment, or maybe you wish you had a more active role during your appointments but you’re not sure how. In this episode, Dr. Christine Simmons shares tips and tricks on how to establish and leverage your role when it comes to decision-making between yourself and your care teams. This podcast episode was supported by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc.About Dr. Christine SimmonsDr. Christine Simmons is a Med...

A diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer can feel overwhelming for both patients and their loved ones. In this episode, oncology nurse, Fiona Macdonald, guides us through navigating a metastatic breast cancer diagnosis by answering the question of “where to start.” This episode also features helpful resources, as well as coping strategies and ways to prioritize mental health while living with metastatic breast cancer. This podcast episode was supported by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc.He...

Genetic, genomic, or biomarker testing – what does it all mean? In this episode, Dr. Brandon Sheffield explains the key differences between genetic testing, genomic testing, and biomarker testing and how patients can make sense of the terminology to know when and why they are receiving a particular test and how it will inform their diagnosis. This podcast episode was supported by Hoffmann-La Roche Limited.About Dr. Brandon Sheffield: Dr. Sheffield is a pathologist, Medical Director of Immuno-...

Living through a breast cancer diagnosis while navigating a complex healthcare system can be overwhelming for patients and their loved ones. In this episode, guest expert Niya Chari addresses challenges and barriers faced by patients, while providing tips to help patients be their own advocates throughout their breast cancer experience. This podcast episode was supported by Hoffmann-La Roche Limited.Terms, tools and tips mentioned in this episode: ‘Drug Access Navigators’ or DANs are healthca...

Knowing the basics of clinical trials – and how they differ from research studies – is important for understanding your options. In this episode, Dr. Stephen Chia answers common questions, offers guidance on what to consider before deciding to participate, and outlines a ‘day-in-the-life’ experience for those enrolled in a clinical trial. This podcast episode was supported by Hoffmann-La Roche Limited.This podcast contains scientific information about compounds and uses that are investigation...

Coping with the emotional toll of breast cancer – from diagnosis through to treatment and beyond – can be difficult for patients, as well as for their loved ones and caregivers. In this episode, Dr. Karen Fergus discusses the evolving needs of patients throughout their breast cancer journey, helpful resources and coping strategies, confronting mortality, and prioritizing life after cancer. This podcast episode was supported by Hoffmann-La Roche Limited.About Dr. Karen Fergus: Dr. Fergus is a ...

Living with breast cancer can mean endless medical appointments and a multi-person healthcare team. In this episode, guest expert Jennifer Newton provides tips and guidance for patients on how best to work with their healthcare team and how to get the most out of their (many) appointments. This podcast episode was supported by Hoffmann-La Roche Limited.About Jennifer Newton:Newton is an oncology nurse educator at The Ottawa Hospital, as well as a clinical instructor, simulation facilitator, a...

Personalized healthcare is frequently referred to as the ‘future of breast cancer treatment’. In this episode, Dr. Nancy Nixon explains what it is, discusses the role of personalized healthcare in disease management, and talks about how it can help guide treatment decisions. This podcast episode was supported by Hoffmann-La Roche Limited.About Dr. Nancy Nixon: Dr. Nixon is a medical oncologist at Tom Baker Cancer Centre and an Assistant Professor at the University of Calgary.Helpful Links and...

What is the likelihood of breast cancer coming back? For many patients, the risk of recurrence is a stressful concern that can significantly impact daily life – even after treatments are complete. Dr. Karen Gelmon discusses risk factors for breast cancer returning and ways to reduce the chances of recurrence. This podcast episode was supported by Hoffman-La Roche Limited.About Dr. Karen Gelmon: Dr. Gelmon is a Professor of Medicine at the University of British Columbia and Medical Oncologist ...