This year I am once again raising money in support of Bladder Cancer Canada by participating in Canada Walks for Bladder Cancer on September 22nd.Canada Walks for Bladder Cancer is a national walk, with participants from across Canada uniting to increase awareness and raise funds to support Bladder Cancer Canada.

I was first diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2012, and, prior to this summer, I had had eight surgeries, more than 39 cystoscopies and 54 BCG treatments. Although I was cancer free for six years, I had a recurrence in 2021, and again last year and this year when cancer was found in one of my ureters and the bladder. In June of this year I underwent major surgery to remove my bladder, (cystectomy) my left kidney and ureter (nephrectomy) and my uterus (hysterectomy). I am happy to say that I have recovered well and I am adjusting to my new reality of living with an ileal conduit.

Although bladder cancer is one of the most expensive cancers to treat, with a high recurrence rate, it receives very little research funding. 

This year, more than 13,000 Canadians will be diagnosed, adding to the 80,000+ survivors. Please donate today and support my fundraising efforts so that other patients will be cured without having to lose their bladders in the process. Consider joining Canada Walks for Bladder Cancer. Together we can make bladder cancer just a memory!