National Volunteer Week (NVW) is April 14-20, 2024. This is a week to recognize and celebrate every volunteer and each contribution they’re making to strengthen inclusivity and wellbeing in our community. The theme for National Volunteer Week 2024 is Every Moment Matters. Volunteers are fundamental to meeting this challenging moment. By coming together, committing support, and increasing our collective efforts and impact, we contribute exponentially to the quality of life we all strive for. Volunteering matters – moment by moment we can move collectively from surviving to thriving again. Now m ..read more

By Dick G. In April 2012, as I prepared for retirement after nearly 40 years as an Urban Transportation Planner, my plans took an unexpected turn. I noticed blood in my urine, prompting a visit to my family doctor and, eventually, a referral to a urologist. Following a series of tests, including a transurethral resection of a bladder tumour (TURBT) and cystoscopy, I received a diagnosis of muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Through a biopsy and CT scans, it was determined that the type of cancer was “small cell”, an aggressive type rarely found in bladder tumours. An oncologist with experience in ..read more

By Enid R. I never imagined I’d be part of a cancer story, especially since cancer wasn’t in my family history. Yet here I am, six years cancer-free, a survivor of bladder cancer sharing my story with you. Looking back, every moment feels vivid, like it happened yesterday. The Discovery: It all began in January 2017 when I noticed blood in my urine. I brushed it off as an anomaly, but when it happened again in February, I started to think it was perhaps the end of menopause, so I brushed away any concern. I told my daughter about the recurring blood in my urine, and she urged me to seek medica ..read more

As inflation rates have surged, the demand for financial assistance within our community has risen significantly. We’ve experienced a notable increase in requests for information regarding drug and accessory coverage, provincial programs for low-income individuals, disability tax credits, successful application processes, and more.  To address the growing needs of our community, we are launching a Financial Help and Resources Series. These new resources will be gradually released throughout 2024 and 2025, aiming to encompass support options available in each province.  What’s availab ..read more

Written by Glen Mund (CPA, bladder cancer patient & BCC volunteer)  Embarking on the challenging journey of bladder cancer comes with its share of physical, emotional, and financial strains. For individuals facing this formidable battle, the Canadian tax system offers a lifeline in the form of the Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC). This article aims to delve deeper into the intricacies of the METC, providing bladder cancer patients with a comprehensive guide on how to navigate this tax credit effectively.  Understanding the Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC)  At its core, the ..read more

Bladder Cancer Canada is consistently developing valuable resources to offer useful tips and tools for individuals navigating the challenges associated with a bladder cancer diagnosis. Through the surveys listed below, we aim to gather insights into the experiences and needs of our community.   We invite you to complete these surveys to provide us with a clearer understanding of how we can further support you and the bladder cancer community.  Available Surveys 1. Managing Side Effects & Pain Post-Procedures: This survey seeks to gather recommendations on how to best mitigat ..read more

By Brian M.  When I started having pain on my left side eight years ago, I thought I might have appendicitis. Like most men, I kept saying, “I’ll be fine, I’ll be fine!” It turns out that I wasn’t “fine.” After all, I was only around 50 at the time, pretty healthy, physically fit, never smoked, rarely drank and was physically active.  After a little encouragement, I finally went to see my family doctor, who laughed and said, “It’s not your appendix for sure. That’s on the right side!” So, he sent me for blood work, an ultrasound, CT scan and X-ray. They could find nothing wrong.  ..read more

By Hasu P. How does it feel to perceive oneself as a bladder cancer (BC) survivor rather than a bladder cancer patient? The first time I was introduced as a survivor within the Bladder Cancer Canada (BCC) community, I felt a sense of empowerment and it changed my perception of myself – forever.   My first encounter with bladder cancer was over twenty years ago when I was diagnosed with urothelial carcinoma – a form of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. Since then, I have had seven TURBTs, mitomycin C and BCG intravesical therapies and countless cystoscopies. However, that has not hi ..read more

Dear Bladder Cancer Canada Community,  We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone in our mission to support those affected by bladder cancer: the release of our brand-new guidebook for caregivers. As an organization dedicated to improving the lives of bladder cancer patients and their loved ones, we understand the vital role that caregivers play in the journey of those living with this disease. This comprehensive guidebook is designed to provide caregivers with essential information, resources, and support to navigate the challenges that may arise while caring for their loved one ..read more

Date/Time November 18 9:30am-1:00pm Join Bladder Cancer Canada for a Patient Education Meeting in Montreal on November 18. The event will be held at Hotel Ruby Foos (7655 Decarie Blvd, Montreal, Quebec H4P 2H2) The morning includes presentations in French and English by: Michelle Colero, Executive Director, Bladder Cancer Canada Dr. Paul Toren, MD, FRCSC Dr. Wassim Kassouf, MD, CM, FRCSC Registration is free (although donations are greatly appreciated) and includes refreshments & a light lunch. We hope to see you there! Please register here: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/montreal ..read more