Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation

Recently a unique, and free event focused on post-mastectomy breast reconstruction options took place at the Lois Hole Hospital for Women. BRA Day Edmonton, hosted by the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation, in partnership with local reconstruction experts and the Canadian Cancer Society, is designed to help women with questions about breast reconstruction easily find the answers they need.

The event brings together breast cancer survivors, women currently facing breast cancer and those who are at high risk of developing breast cancer, along with leading reconstruction surgeons and women who have made choices about reconstruction to learn more about options and the process. 

The goal is to empower women with knowledge and confidence to make an informed decision about whether reconstruction after breast cancer is right for them.

“We know women may face complicated decisions about breast reconstruction and of those who decide against reconstruction, 40 per cent felt they were not adequately informed about their options,” explains Natalie Witkin, senior manager of partnerships and programs at the Canadian Cancer Society. “This event supports women in a safe and supportive environment by giving them as much information as possible about the many options that exist for breast reconstruction.”

A notable feature of BRA Day is the Show & Tell Lounge* – a comfortable area where women share their own reconstruction stories and results with attendees and answer questions about their experiences. It is consistently one of the most popular components of the event, bringing countless women direct access to first-hand knowledge and experience.

“What an honour to sponsor today’s BRA Day event,” said Sharlene Rutherford, vice president and chief operating officer at the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation. “We are pleased to help shape and host an event that offers such a complete and comprehensive experience for women.” 

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Canadian women. Of the women who undergo mastectomies, only 16% choose breast reconstruction surgery. BRA Day events take place across the country to help ensure that more women feel educated, empowered and able to access the right options for them.

Now in its ninth year, more than 30 countries host BRA Day events and 20 events will be held in Canada alone.

It was our pleasure to be visited by the Edmonton Journal as well. Please find the Edmonton Jornal article here