Sundas Shamshad’s breast cancer journey emerges at the intersection of science, access to care, and community advocacy. At the age of 29, with no family history of breast cancer, Sundas was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer in 2017. Sundas‘ experience underscores the multi-faceted challenges faced by individuals residing in regions lacking proximity to specialized diagnostic tools, coupled with her young age.
Residing in Fort McMurray, Alberta, Sundas dealt with the geographical barrier, necessitating a five-hour commute each way to Edmonton for comprehensive breast cancer care, including her initial referral for an ultrasound that was categorized as both “low risk and cautionary”. The long trips to Edmonton became frequent for biopsies, surgery and many subsequent treatments.
Sundas‘ experience sheds light on the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis – especially in cases involving young Canadian women with dense breast tissue, which pose challenges for early detection. As Sundas shared her story, we heard more about the financial strains incurred from travel expenses, prescription medication costs, and fertility treatments preceding cancer therapy. Sundas‘ advocacy extends beyond the financial view as she acknowledges systemic issues such as limited access to diagnostic tools like mammograms and radiologists in remote Canadian communities.
Additionally, she highlighted the critical role of public, equitable access to medications such as Neulasta, vital for mitigating infection risks during chemotherapy. Thankfully her extended health benefits covered part of the cost of her Neulasta treatments; however Sundas couldn’t stop thinking about other individuals facing chemotherapy who would not be able to afford the injections.
Due to the lack of support services in Fort McMurray, Sundas took a proactive approach towards her beloved community. She culminated in the establishment of Sisters in Cancer YMM a local group aimed at fostering solidarity and information sharing among patients and cancer survivors. Amidst her advocacy efforts, Sundas emphasizes the importance of education and awareness in navigating the intricacies of cancer, hosting workshops on anxiety management for patients and survivors. She also tells women to use their voice when something doesn’t feel right; “it’s up to you to speak up when you notice changes in your breast health and advocate for screening; regardless of your age”.
In October, Sundas delivered a compelling presentation at the Cancer Equity Forum, focusing on patient-centered healthcare for marginalized communities, including minorities, young cancer patients and rural residents. Her advocacy shed light on the significant disparities faced by rural Alberta patients, emphasizing the urgent need to address gaps in patient care, particularly within immigrant and BIPOC communities. Sundas‘ dedication to inclusivity and equal opportunities is evident in her extensive professional background and community initiatives. As a Person of Colour and a breast cancer survivor, she has turned her personal experiences into a force for change, exemplifying leadership and making significant contributions to the advancement in the Wood Buffalo area for women with cancer, young girls, and Individuals of Colour.
Sundas‘ journey serves as a poignant reminder of the pressing need for access to breast cancer care and policy change around access to screening for younger women. We commend Sundas for her efforts to use her story to bridge the gaps in healthcare delivery and ensure universal access to quality care for all individuals is possible, regardless of geographical location or age.
The research funded by Breast Cancer Canada focuses on improving techniques for breast cancer screening and detection. We also advocate for better access for breast screenings and treatment equity. With your support, we can know more about breast cancer. And that helps us detect it earlier and treat it better, for patients like Sundas.
