Progress Powered by Research

Breast Cancer Canada invests donations into life-saving research that directly impacts Canadian patients.

That means better answers, bigger breakthroughs – and more personalized treatment for every breast cancer diagnosis.

The more we know, the sooner we can end it.

Breast Cancer Research Pillars

Breast Cancer Canada funds research initiatives that surround precision oncology. This is broken down into our research pillars

Basic
Science

Basic Science research delves into the fundamental biological processes underlying breast cancer development and progression.

The information uncovered by basic science projects lay the groundwork for all other research that follows.

Screening &
Detection

Here, we focus on developing new, less invasive technologies that offer higher quality results for early cancer detection.

New personalized technology like genomic blood tests that identify breast cancer during screening or machine learning that assists a clinician for more accurate breast cancer detection.

Treatment

Research explores treatments tailored to the over 50 different types of breast cancer.

We seek projects that are developing targeted therapies that address the unique characteristics of each subtype and optimize patient outcomes.

– Novel drug targets, exploring combination therapies, immunotherapy and other precision medicine approaches.

Patient Reported Outcomes

This pillar emphasizes gathering and analyzing data directly from patients to better understand their experiences and needs throughout the cancer care journey.

This shapes treatment and surgical interventions that impact many aspects of a patient’s life.

Internal Projects

PROgress Tracker Breast Cancer Registry is a knowledge-based research study collecting Patient Reported Outcomes (PRO) from breast cancer patients from across the country.

The goal is to lead us to more directed research, updates in health care policies and treatment advances.

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Progress CONNECT is an online tool designed that provides patients with information specific to their type of breast cancer.

The goal is to help patients have thoughtful discussions with their treating oncologist by providing up to date evidence-based information.

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At the forefront of breast cancer care and research in Canada, REAL Canadian Breast Cancer Alliance was established in December 2023 to address critical gaps in treatment and care.

Formed by a dynamic coalition of clinical and academic leaders, the REAL Alliance brings together experts from across the nation to develop and advocate for evidence-based clinical recommendations, shaping the future of breast cancer management and standards of care.

Under the leadership of Dr. Jan-Willem Henning, our national efforts focus on translating cutting-edge research and innovation into updated care and treatment strategies.

By providing evidence-based recommendations to public and governmental bodies, REAL Alliance strives to ensure all breast cancer patients across Canada have equitable and timely access to care.

 
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Signature Research Projects

Breast Cancer Canada Translational Research Unit

Over $10-million

BCC-TRU researchers at London Health Sciences are moving into exciting new areas of investigation including population data analysis, genomics and artificial intelligence. By incorporating these “big data” approaches, the team hopes to continue progressing towards a cure for breast cancer.

Over the past 25 years, research in the BCC-TRU has focused on the understanding, prevention, tracking and treatment of metastasis, the deadliest aspect of breast cancer.

Thanks to donor support, the BCC-TRU has served as the exemplar for how to engage basic scientists, clinicians and trainees together to carry out impactful, patient-focused cancer research.

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Dr. Jane Bayani and Dr. Melanie Spears $250,000 to the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research

Dr. Jane Bayani and Dr. Melanie Spears are helping bring new diagnostic tools to breast cancer patients as part of OICR’s Diagnostic Development program. They are also studying the mechanisms of metastasis in breast cancer, as well as the impact of lifestyle and environmental factors on breast cancer risk.

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$250,000 to Dr. Paola Marigani to identify HER2+ markers

About one third of all breast cancers are classified as HER2-positive due to high levels of the HER2 cell surface protein. Drugs that target HER2 have been successful, however this type of cancer returns at a high frequency once treatment has been completed.

Dr. Paola Marignani’s research aims to identify unique markers associated with HER2+ breast cancer recurrence.

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$3-million to Prevention

Dr. Rama Khokha and her team are working on molecular breast cancer prevention research to improve early detection, screening, treatment and ultimately, future prevention strategies for high risk groups.

“With BCC’s unparalleled support for our bold ideas, we will strive to progress Canada’s position as a leader in cancer prevention.”
— Dr. Rama Khokha, world-renowned expert in mammary stem cells and breast cancer research

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$2.5-million to McPeak-Sirois Group

The commitment to McPeak-Sirois Group is opening access to clinical research for patients living outside major urban areas. 

The partnership is amplifying the geographical reach and impact – while enabling regional hospitals to offer the latest clinical trials to breast cancer patients.

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Precision Oncology Research Grant Recipients

Dr. Saima Hassan, Centre de Recherche de Centre Hospitalier de l’Universite de Montreal

Immunotherapy & PARP Inhibition

Dr. Katarzyna Jerzak, Sunnybrook Odette Cancer Centre

MicroRNA predictive biomarkers

Dr. Joanne Kotsopoulos, Women’s College Hospital, University of Toronto

Long-term outcomes of BRACA1

Dr. Hermann Nabi, Quebec City University Hospital Research Centre

Personalized risk-stratified follow-up care

Dr. Luc Sabourin, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute

Sox10 genetic activity in HER2+ breast cancer

Dr. Mohammad Reza Akbari, Women’s College Hospital, University of Toronto

Young-onset patients with ER+/HER2-

Anand Krishnan, University of Saskatchewan

Novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of breast cancer

Carrie Shemanko, University of Calgary

Exploring the role of prolactin in Metastatic breast cancer cells and the bone.

Mousumi Majumder, Brandon University

Precision Genomics Research – development of a simple blood test to detect breast cancer

Melba D’Souza, Thompson Rivers University

Patient Reported Outcomes – Experiences of indigenous breast cancer patients in rural B.C.

Jim Xiang, University of Saskatchewan

Developing novel HER2- targeted T cell vaccines for HER2+ breast cancer

Lisa Porter, University of Windsor

Targeted alternative therapies for patients with Triple Negative breast cancer (TNBC)

Matched Grant

Breast Cancer Canada in collaboration with AstraZeneca announce $200,000 in grants for Screening & Detection

These grants were awarded to two Canadian research teams committed to advancing breast cancer screening or detection through the integration of precision diagnostics and AI technology.

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$200,000 Screening & Detection Grant Recipients

Dr Elijah Van Houten

Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec

Dr Van Houten’s research uses state of the art technology to build a sensor bra to measure suspicious breast lumps with a goal to revolutionize simple and convenient screening and detection.

Dr Luke McCaffrey

Goodman Cancer Research Centre McGill University, Montreal, Quebec

To reduce the need for more invasive therapy, Dr. McCaffrey’s lab is developing a machine learning model to discriminate between ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and minimally invasive types of breast cancer (MIBC).

Contact Us

Breast Cancer Canada
National Office

101-415 Exmouth Street
Sarnia, Ontario
N7T 8A4
Address
Charitable Registration Number: 13796 9861 RR0001
© Breast Cancer Canada 2024
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How to

Support an Event

Make a contribution to a fundraiser being held in support of Breast Cancer Canada. You can search for the organization or person you wish to support; or click on the event name to make a general donation to the Raise More initiative of your choice.

Support Now

How to

Sponsor

Thinking about becoming a corporate partner of Breast Cancer Canada? Amazing. We work with all types of organizations. We’ll help you deliver results which are measurable. National or local.

A partnership with Breast Cancer Canada is a win-win. It improves employee engagement, boosts morale, fosters a tighter culture. It raises your organization’s profile and demonstrates your support for breast cancer research. To customers. To employees. To suppliers. Most of all – it makes a positive impact for those affected directly by breast cancer.

We’ll raise money for life-saving breast cancer research, together.

Let’s talk about building your program!

Contact Charlene Politano today to get started.
Email: cpolitano@breastcancerprogress.ca
Phone: 1-800-567-8767 or 416-352-8567

To make an online corporate donation, please click here.

If you would like to explore other ways to give, we invite you to learn more.

How to

Fundraise

Join the Raise More Challenge

The more money we raise, the sooner we can end breast cancer. The more time researchers have in the lab. The more technology they can use. The more support we can get. Advancements in early detection and personalized treatment are in reach, and with your help to raise funds, we can find a cure sooner.

There are many ways to fundraise – whether you want to create a competition or tournament, fundraise with your team, challenge your colleagues, host a pink party, have a bake sale or cook-off, the idea is to raise more for breast cancer research.

Breast Cancer Canada will empower you with all the tools you need for a successful fundraiser, and if you need more information, contact Dawn Hamilton at: dhamilton@breastcancerprogress.ca  

Join the Raise More Challenge

I am a

Corporate Donor

Support life-saving breast cancer research. A corporate donation is a simple and efficient way to demonstrate your corporate support.

To make a one-time or reoccurring corporate donation online, please click here.

Learn more about

How to Sponsor

Thinking about becoming a corporate partner of Breast Cancer Canada? Amazing. work with all types of organizations. We’ll help you deliver results which are measurable. National or local.

A partnership with Breast Cancer Canada is a win-win. It improves employee engagement, boosts morale, fosters a tighter culture. It raises your organization’s profile and demonstrates your support for breast cancer research. To customers. To employees. To suppliers. Most of all – it makes a positive impact for those affected directly by breast cancer.

We’ll raise money for life-saving breast cancer research, together.

Let’s talk about building your program!

Contact Dawn Hamilton today to get started.
Email: hello@breastcancerprogress.ca
Phone: 1-800-567-8767 

To make an online corporate donation, please click here.

I am a

Legacy Donor

Over the last 30 years, many generous donors have left a legacy to Breast Cancer Canada in efforts to advance breast cancer research.

No matter what the form of your gift, you will be remembered by your legacy which will live on through each of the lives you touch with your gift.

Donate Now

Learn more about

Legacy donor

Leave a legacy. Plan for a future gift.

  • Leave a gift in your will
  • Donating a life insurance policy
  • Donate a TFSA, RRSP, or RRIF

Support Breast Cancer Canada with a future gift to create a better future for breast cancer patients. Your gift helps to save lives through early detection and improve outcomes with better treatments.

or more information, please contact: hello@breastcancerprogress.ca


LEAVE A GIFT IN YOUR WILL

This is often called a bequest. It’s the simplest way to make a legacy gift. A gift in your will has no effect on your current income and your estate receives a charitable donation tax receipt. Here’s a sample of simple bequest wording : “To pay the sum of $_________ OR _______% of the residue of my estate to Breast Cancer Canada.”


DONATING A LIFE INSURANCE POLICY

Life insurance is a way to provide financial security for your family. If the needs of your family are already taken care of, a life insurance policy is a smart way to donate to charity including tax savings for your estate. Speak to your financial advisors for your personalized advice and learn how a gift of life insurance can work for you. Here’s the top-line on ways of leaving gifts of life insurance:


Bequeath your policy to Breast Cancer Canada for the future:

  • Name Breast Cancer Canada as the beneficiary of your policy. BCC will receive your insurance proceeds tax-free. Your estate will receive a donation receipt.


Transfer ownership of a paid-up policy to Breast Cancer Canada now:

  • Want to gift us your existing, paid-up policy right now? Make Breast Cancer Canada the beneficiary and owner of your policy. You will receive a donation receipt for the fair market value of the policy. BCC may redeem the policy now, or hold it and receive the face value in the future – however your gift can be put to best use.


Transfer ownership of a policy on which premiums are still owing to BCC now:

  • Premiums still owing? You can still opt to transfer your policy ownership to BCC. You’ll receive a donation receipt for the policy’s fair market value. Want to make it an ongoing gift? Transfer the ownership to BCC, and still continue to pay the premiums owing. You’ll receive donation receipts for those payments too.


DONATE A TFSA, RRSP, RRIF

Register a significant difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer. Donate the proceeds of a registered account: Tax-free savings account (TFSA); Registered retirement savings plan (RRSP); Registered retirement income fund (RRIF). It’s a smart way to make a major contribution. Without reducing your current assets. Without subjecting the funds to probate fees. While reducing taxes on your estate through a donation receipt.

Making a gift like this is easy. Designate Breast Cancer Canada as the beneficiary of your registered account.  You benefit from the full use of your account(s) during your lifetime. We receive any remaining funds after your passing.

For more information, contact: hello@breastcancerprogress.ca

I am a

Individual Donor

When you support Breast Cancer Canada, you are helping to improve and save lives through better treatments and early detection of breast cancer.

Donate Now

Learn more about

Gifting securities

Donating securities is becoming more popular, and supports Breast Cancer Canada just like cash donations. Gifts of publicly traded securities (stocks, bonds, mutual funds) are an easy, tax-effective way to make a contribution towards life-saving research that helps with early detection, better treatments, and ultimately  Securities can be of any size and given immediately, or you can bequeath them to Breast Cancer Canada in your will. Just like a cash donation, you’ll get a donation tax credit for your gift of securities.

Today, most securities are held electronically and are easily transferred from your brokerage account to our BCC brokerage account. Your Financial Advisor can make all the arrangements.

For more information, contact: hello@breastcancerprogress.ca

Send e-cards in memory or honour

Bravery is beautiful. That’s why we encourage you to make a donation in honour of a loved one’s own experience with breast cancer. With your donation, we’ll send a email to acknowledge the dedication to the individual or family.

Make a donation with  eCard by dedicating your donation:

Let’s get started

Corporate matching

Multiply the impact of your donation

Fact: thousands of companies will match donations made by employees.

It’s true, and it’s very generous. Want to know if your company will match your donation to BCC? Use the search tool below. It also has access to all the forms, guidelines, and instructions you need to submit a company-matchable gift donation today.

Search Tool

Monthly Giving

Support life-saving breast cancer research every month of the year.

 

When you make a monthly contribution to Breast Cancer Canada, you provide stable funding for year-round campaigning and allow us to continue to support research projects across Canada.

 

To join, simply pre-authorize a monthly deduction from your credit card.

  1. Online:  Donate Now
  2. By Phone: Sign up as a monthly donor by calling Toll Free: 1-800-567-8767
  3. By Mail


Breast Cancer Canada, National Office
415 Exmouth Street Unit # 101
Sarnia, ON N7T 8A4

You will need to provide us the credit card type, number and expiry date, and the amount you would like to give each month.

How to

Volunteer

Volunteers are Breast Cancer Canada’s most important resource, and the backbone of our organization. From helping build our PROgress research to helping breast cancer patients, to supporting events, special fundraising projects and administrative tasks, our volunteers are dedicated to making a positive, life-changing impact.

We ensure our volunteers have the best possible experience and apply the Canadian Code for Volunteer Involvement.

You can help us end breast cancer by:

  • Volunteering with one of our fundraising campaigns. Or a BCC signature event
  • Helping with local community events where you live
  • Joining our PROgress research at a local hub
  • Assisting us with virtual office tasks

Learn more about our volunteer driven Regional Hubs.

Regional Hubs are an integral part of Breast Canada Canada. We connect communities and those committed to our mission to make the goal local. Together, we can save lives through advancing breast cancer research, coast to coast.

Connect to learn more about what is happening in your area: volunteer@breastcancerprogress.ca