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Hear the 5 milestones reached in breast cancer research through those it affected most

Over the past 32 years, the Canadian Cancer Society and CIBC have joined forces to unite Canada in support of the Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure. And through the power of community, we’ve changed the landscape of breast cancer treatment forever. Experience the milestones we’ve reached in breast cancer research through those who it affected most.

Milestone 1: Building a community

The first Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure event in 1992 reduced the stigma around breast cancer. For the first time people felt comfortable talking openly about their breast cancer experiences, uniting a national breast cancer community. Listen to how Coral looked to her community for courage and support throughout her breast cancer journey.
Coral with her arms around her daughter while they smile at each other.
Coral (left) and her daughter

Milestone 2: Rise of personalized treatments

The early 2000s marked a shift in breast cancer treatment. With the identification of breast cancer subtypes and genetic risk factors, treatments shifted from a one-size-fits-all approach to a plan based on an individual's unique diagnosis. Listen to how Salimeh was able to receive targeted breast cancer treatment throughout her pregnancy.
Salimeh holding her baby in her arms.
Salimeh and her baby

Milestone 3: National support system

In 2017, the Canadian Cancer Society and the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation merged. This allowed for the national support programs they provided to grow: transportation services, wig banks, a toll-free helpline, lodges and more. Listen to how Angus used the Canadian Cancer Society's online community, CancerConnection.ca, and found an abundance of support.
Angus smiling at the camera.
Angus

Milestone 4: Advances in prevention and detection

Genetic testing, standardized screening, measures taken during surgery and drugs have reduced the likelihood of breast cancer coming back. Because of the Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure, we know more than ever before about how to prevent breast cancer and diagnose it early. Listen to how this played a crucial role for Linda as an adopted Canadian with no record of her family's medical history.
Linda smiling at the camera.
Linda

Milestone 5: Increasing survival

Today, the 5-year breast cancer survival rate has reached 89%, largely the result of upgraded screening and improvements in diagnosis and treatment. Listen to how Maja was able to survive and thrive from the day of her diagnosis.
Maja standing facing the camera.
Maja

Milestone 6: This milestone hasn't been reached yet

Sign up for this year’s Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure on October 6 and help us reach the next milestone.