“Even tough I have never smoked, I was diagnosed with lung cancer.”

My world changed dramatically on June 28, 2017. Not only was I diagnosed with lung cancer, but it was a cystic adenoid carcinoma, a very rare form of the disease. And I’ve never smoked in my life.

I’m 44 years old, and before I got cancer, I was always in great shape: I would go downhill skiing, mountain hiking, etc.

On October 12, 2017 I was operated on for 14 hours by two thoracic surgeons who removed my left lung, a muscle, and rib number six.

After the operation, I had to undergo 37 radiotherapy sessions. It was during that period that I benefited from the services of the Quebec Cancer Foundation.

I received 6 massages and a program of activities to do at home. And twice a week, I had the pleasure of meeting with Marie-Josée Dauphinais, the kinesiologist at the Eastern Townships Regional Center, who gives me training on the premises of the Fleurimont CHUS. They also gave me information capsules on various subjects related to my illness.

For 2 years I have been involved with the Foundation and with people affected by cancer in my region:

• Every year, I organize a fundraising team at La marche du Grand défoulement in Granby;
• Every Thursday, I volunteer in the chemotherapy wards and talk to each patient about the services offered by the Quebec Cancer Foundation;
• As the first case of adenoid cystic carcinoma at the Fleurimont CHUS, I was invited by the Quebec Lung Association to testify before 25 doctors, in particular about the services offered by the Quebec Cancer Foundation.

Why do I get so involved? Because in my opinion, if you have cancer and you live in Sherbrooke, the Quebec Cancer Foundation is the organization that can help you the most. I am so grateful for everything it has done for me to help me get through the ordeal of cancer!