Laura’s life was turned upside down in November 2023 when she was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer—an aggressive form of breast cancer which can result in a more challenging prognosis.

It’s called “triple-negative” because the cancer cells lack estrogen and progesterone receptors and do not produce the HER2 protein, which limits treatment options to intensive chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

When Laura received her diagnosis at our Breast Health Centre, her first thoughts were about her four-year-old daughter, who had been recently diagnosed with autism and is non-verbal. The fear of not being there for her daughter compounded the stress of her diagnosis.

With her family living out of province, Laura leaned on her parents for emotional support from afar with regular phone and video calls.

“Hearing the word ‘cancer’ is never easy. Yes, I had endured it before, but it was totally different this time around, as a single mom with a toddler,” says Laura. “Having a positive attitude and outlook helped me get through it even when I was at my worst.

“If I could share some advice with others going through something similar, it would be: Don’t let it defeat you. This too shall pass! Yes, take the time to yell, scream, cry… get all the emotions out, and then focus on the goal: kick cancer’s ass!”

Following her diagnosis, surgeon Dr. Timothy Cheang, oncologist Dr. Mateya Trinkaus, and the team at Markham Stouffville Hospital acted quickly, initiating a comprehensive treatment plan. Laura underwent six months of chemotherapy with immunotherapy, enduring 16 treatments.

Throughout her journey, she faced side effects, including a severe drug reaction during her second cycle of treatment, requiring her to take pre-medications with each subsequent treatment infusion, along with ongoing exhaustion. After her third treatment, Laura contracted a viral infection, forcing her to cancel her Christmas plans. Losing her hair in the new year was emotionally devastating, symbolizing the loss of control over her body—but she continued to fight.

In May 2024, Laura completed her final chemotherapy and immunotherapy session—a milestone she celebrated by ringing the ceremonial bell in the oncology clinic, surrounded by friends who came to support her. It was an emotional day, marking the end of a difficult chapter in her journey.

Laura underwent surgery on July 4, 2024; incredibly, all of the cancer in the lymph nodes was gone, and only very few microscopic cells were found in the primary tumour—a testament to the effectiveness of her treatment.

Following surgery, Laura completed radiation therapy from August through September 13, 2024. She now is completing her final few weeks of immunotherapy.

“I would like to extend my deepest thanks to my chemotherapy social worker, Taheera Habib, who supported me through the toughest times,” says Laura. “She helped alleviate my stress so that I could focus on what was important.

“The entire oncology team at Oak Valley Health was amazing. They made the worst part of my experience tolerable, and words cannot express how grateful I am for their care.”

Laura’s strength to recover stemmed from her devotion to her daughter.

“My daughter, Grace, is my pride and joy. She gave me the strength to fight and persevere through everything,” Laura shares. “Although she is non-verbal and on the autism spectrum, she understood everything.

“When I was sick, she would rub my shoulders and console me in her own way, which gave me the push I needed to keep going.”

Treatment for breast cancer has become highly personalized, involving the expertise of medical imaging, surgical, oncology, and pathology services. Our newly-renovated Breast Health Centre played a pivotal role in Laura’s care.

Equipped with state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic technologies, the centre is designed to streamline breast cancer diagnosis and treatment decisions, allowing patients to receive quick referrals and timely care. The success stories seen today at Oak Valley Health are thanks to the collective effort of over 30 team members behind the scenes ensuring timely, comprehensive, and state-of-the-art treatment.

Laura’s experience is a testament to the expertise and collaboration of the entire care team to deliver comprehensive care under one roof.

“The entire team does their very best for every patient like Laura,” says Dr. Trinkaus. “We see her not just as a patient—she’s a mother, a daughter, a person. We continue to push for the best outcomes possible.”

Early detection is critical in the fight against breast cancer. Women should seek medical advice if they feel or see any abnormality in their breasts, and should discuss with their primary care provider when may be the best time to start cancer screening.

Our team further encourages healthy lifestyle practices to prevent breast cancer, such as limiting alcohol intake, quitting smoking, exercising, and being aware of any family history of cancer.

Laura’s journey underscores the importance of vigilance and early diagnosis for treatment, recovery, and becoming cancer-free.