2024 Was a Year of Progress. Thanks To You. Friend, As we close out 2024, this moment serves as an opportunity for us at Breast Cancer Canada to reflect on the successes of the past year while acknowledging areas where progress is still needed. Highlights of Our Impact This year, Breast Cancer Canada continued to drive innovation in breast cancer research through national programs and strategic partnerships. Notable multi-year collaborations with the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto and the McPeak Sirois Group in Quebec are advancing transformative discoveries. Our advocacy efforts played a pivotal role in a significant review of breast screening guidelines, leading Ontario and Manitoba to lower the recommended screening age. By convening world-renowned experts, we have championed best practices that elevate breast cancer care across Canada. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we illuminated iconic Toronto landmarks—Queen’s Park and Union Station—to highlight the critical importance of early screening and timely detection. We celebrated the success of Progress CONNECT, our signature patient education program that fosters meaningful dialogue between patients and surgeons, empowering informed decisions. Additionally, PROgress Tracker continues to grow as a vital tool, enabling patients to share real-world insights that drive research and improve care outcomes. BCC unveiled our 2024 Progress Report, highlighting perspectives in breast cancer across Canada. From advancements in precision medicine to financial toxicity, the report identifies areas for continued focus. This year, we funded groundbreaking research across Canada, advancing early detection, precision medicine, and patient-centered care. At London Health Sciences, our Breast Cancer Canada Translational Research Unit continues its 25-year legacy of studying metastasis, now integrating cutting-edge techniques like genomics and AI to accelerate breakthroughs. You can explore all of the research funded through 2024 at: breastcancerprogress.ca/progress-through-research/ Fundraising efforts have been the cornerstone of sustaining and growing our programs. Events organized by individuals, businesses, and groups have rallied critical support for breast cancer research and education. These initiatives—spanning in-person events, virtual campaigns, retail partnerships, and grassroots advocacy—demonstrate the immense power of community action. One shining example is the Raise More Challenge, which inspired participants across Canada to create personalized campaigns for breast cancer research. This October, we also laid the groundwork for new, innovative initiatives designed to meet the evolving needs of our community. Our Commitment We want to reaffirm that the Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers at Breast Cancer Canada are united in their commitment to donor confidence, accountability, and transparency. Over the past year:We engaged external expertise to refine our mandate and practices, positioning us to better meet the evolving needs of Canadian breast cancer patients.We transitioned our charitable reporting functions to a new firm, strengthening financial oversight and ensuring sustainable, long-term growth.We focused on fundraising excellence and donor engagement, streamlining operations to enhance program delivery and development. Our unwavering commitment to transparency ensures that every dollar raised is carefully allocated to advance our mission: transforming breast cancer care through groundbreaking research, patient advocacy, and educational outreach. Looking Ahead We remain steadfast in our dedication to advancing research and advocacy, investing in programs that deliver meaningful, patient-centered outcomes, and strengthening partnerships within our community. Your support empowers us to approach this work with care, diligence, and a commitment to delivering results that truly make a difference. Together, we are addressing the challenges of today while shaping a future where breast cancer patients have access to improved care, outcomes, and resources. All the best for 2025. Breast Cancer Canada P.S. Remember to make your donation before December 31st. Not only will your generosity help to fund life-saving breast cancer research, but you can also take advantage of the 2024 tax benefits! Donate NowYour commitment drives the progress that improves outcomes for Canadian breast cancer. By donating today, you ensure the vital research we champion continues without interruption in 2025. Breast Cancer Canada is a national charity dedicated to saving lives through breast cancer research. With a focus on precision oncology (personalized care), we are the only national breast cancer organization in Canada that has a clear mandate to raise money for research and advocate and educate on the progress of new research evidence. For more information please visit, breastcancerprogress.ca.Stay connected on our social channels: |