For Tracey Chase, breast cancer advocacy is a mission born from love and resilience.
Having watched her mother face breast cancer at age 39, Chase felt compelled to embrace early screenings and prepare herself for any challenge that might come her way.
"From the time I was in my 30s, I knew I’d be screening regularly. It brought up some anxiety having seen what cancer does and how it affects people. So, I went for 15 years of doing those screenings,” she said.
Eventually, she faced her diagnosis at 45.
Chase is a 50-year-old breast cancer survivor living in Waterloo, Ont. Today, Chase not only survives but thrives, actively giving back as a volunteer with Breast Cancer Canada to raise awareness and support for those on similar journeys.
“This organization has been my connection to a community that understands the physical and mental challenges that come with this disease,” she said.
Humber Polytechnic’s Department of Public Safety rallied to support Breast Cancer Canada during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, launching its first health-related initiative. The initiative surpassed its fundraising goal of $1,000 by raising $1,554, achieving 155 per cent of its target.
The initiative, driven by a combination of student engagement and dedicated outreach tables, aimed to bring breast cancer awareness to campus while raising crucial funds for research.
The overwhelming support earned Humber a spot in Breast Cancer Canada’s top ten fundraising contributors nationwide.
Angela Marlatt, the vice president of Mission and Advocacy at Breast Cancer Canada, emphasized the critical role of partnerships like these in advancing breast cancer research.
“Campaigns like Humber’s enable us to engage more communities and raise awareness on a personal level,” she said.
Marlatt said the reach of these campaigns not only brings awareness but also empowers people to act.
“It’s essential that people recognize the importance of early detection, especially since advancements now allow more personalized treatment based on the type and stage of breast cancer,” she said.
The funds raised this year will support innovative projects that could transform how breast cancer is detected and treated, particularly for individuals in remote communities who face barriers to access.
Marlatt said a new research project funded by Breast Cancer Canada focuses on developing a blood test for early detection, which could save high-risk individuals the long travel times for screening procedures.
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month concluded, both Breast Cancer Canada and Humber Polytechnic look forward to continuing their collaboration.
The funds raised will go directly toward research efforts in 2025, with new announcements expected in December.
Marlatt expressed deep gratitude to the Humber community, encouraging students and faculty alike to continue supporting awareness and research efforts.
Adnan Salam, assistant manager of Public Safety, said the department’s motivation behind the campaign, noting many within the Humber community have personal connections to breast cancer.
“One of my colleagues was diagnosed recently, and we felt it was essential to bring this cause to campus to support those affected and to help drive forward research that can save lives,” he said.
The campaign has since become a model for future health initiatives on campus, with plans to expand its reach and impact next year.
For Chase and others, these efforts underscore the value of community support. Her message to those beginning their journey is simple but powerful.
“Find your community. Organizations like Breast Cancer Canada are there to connect you with resources, to help you navigate each step,” Chase said.
