Montreal Pediatric ER Doctor Who Beat Breast Cancer Launches ‘More Than a Cure’

Black women with breast cancer are 41% more likely to die than white women in Canada. A pediatric ER doctor in Montreal is fighting this with a new nonprofit. It’s based on science, personal experience, and community support.

Dr. Tamara (Tammy) Angela Gafoor was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2022. She went through six rounds of chemotherapy, surgery, 20 rounds of radiation, and a year of immunotherapy. With her partner, Dr. Olumide Adeleye, and others, she started More Than a Cure, or MTAC.

Her goal is to help those who can’t afford basic care. In Quebec, costs like transport and cold caps can be high. MTAC aims to help those who can’t afford these costs.

MTAC has a 16-woman board, including breast cancer experts. Their first event, the Harvest Brunch Launch, raised money and showed community support. Every dollar raised goes to women in need.

The story of Dr. Gafoor and MTAC is inspiring many. It’s reaching hospitals and news across Canada. With support from many, including Marylena Sicari, Dr. Gafoor is making a difference.

Meta Overview: Montreal Pediatric ER Doctor Launches ‘More Than a Cure’

A pediatric ER doctor at the Montreal Children’s Hospital has beaten breast cancer. Now, he starts a nonprofit that puts patients first. It focuses on dignity and making sure everyone has access. The story is written in a friendly way, aiming to help Canadians understand the importance of this initiative.

Meta title: Montreal Pediatric ER Doctor Who Beat Breast Cancer Launches ‘More Than a Cure’

Dr. Tamara Gafoor, a doctor at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, has turned her fight against breast cancer into a mission. She wants to help others. The program she started is important for all of Canada, and the story is easy to follow.

Meta description: After surviving breast cancer, Montreal Children’s Hospital pediatric ER physician Dr. Tamara Gafoor

Dr. Gafoor uses her experience to help others. She offers things like wigs, cold caps, and education. Her work shows how to fill the gaps in care for breast cancer patients.

Article type: Roundup post | Tone: Friendly | POV: Third person | Target: Canada

This roundup post Canada brings together important information. It’s about services, events, and partners. The story is written in a friendly way, making it easy for Canadians to get involved.

Dr. Tamara Gafoor’s Breast Cancer Journey at the Montreal Children’s Hospital

Dr. Tamara Gafoor is a paediatric ER physician at the Montreal Children’s Hospital. She’s used to reading scans and making quick decisions. This skill helped her tell a strong survivor story of courage and insight.

Diagnosis in April 2022: finding a lump and the road ahead

She found a lump and got diagnosed in April 2022. The time was filled with COVID rules and masked hallways. Alone in imaging, she knew what was coming. She quickly planned her journey and who would support her.

Treatment path: 6 rounds of chemo, surgery, 20 rounds of radiation, and a year of immunotherapy

Her treatment plan was detailed: six chemo sessions, surgery, 20 radiation rounds, and a year of immunotherapy. Each step required strength and focus. The care teams at the Montreal Children’s Hospital and MUHC guided her every step.

Returning to the ER: the joy and emotion of coming back to care for kids

Being away from the ER was the toughest part. She missed the fast pace and the children she cared for. When she returned, she cried with joy, ready to care for kids again.

The role of partner support: Dr. Olumide Adeleye, family, and friends

Her partner, Dr. Olumide Adeleye, was a big support. He was there for every step, along with family, friends, and colleagues. Their support made tough days easier, strengthening her survivor story.

Why ‘More Than a Cure’ (MTAC) Was Founded: From Survivor to Advocate

After treatment, she noticed gaps that care alone couldn’t fill. The goal was to give people the tools to finish the race, not just start it. In Canada, the system covers core treatments, but daily life needs are left out. MTAC fills this gap, providing practical help and a human touch.

Addressing inequality: higher mortality among Black women with breast cancer

Data shows a stark truth: Black women with breast cancer have worse outcomes. Higher mortality is linked to delayed diagnosis, limited navigation, and health inequities. MTAC aims to address this by providing early screening guidance, culturally aware support, and swift referrals.

Closing the gap beyond “the basics” of care in Quebec and across Canada

In Quebec, healthcare gaps appear after the last clinic visit. Needs like transport to frequent appointments, cold caps, and rehab are often not covered. MTAC fills these gaps, keeping recovery on track and strengthening cancer support.

Financial toxicity: $800–$1,000 monthly costs beyond public coverage

Many face financial toxicity from add-on costs during treatment. These costs pile up for parking, child care, nutrition, and medications. A monthly cost of $800–$1,000 forces difficult choices. MTAC helps shoulder this burden, focusing on health, not the wallet.

Board leadership: 16 outstanding women powering MTAC’s mission

The MTAC board brings diverse skills to action. Members from various fields work together, aligning support with real needs in Quebec and beyond.

MTAC’s Mission, Vision, and Community Impact Across Canada

More Than a Cure works across Canada with a clear mission and vision. They aim to make a difference in the lives of patients and families. Their efforts are felt during the toughest times of care.

Mission: financial assistance, services, and support with confidence, hope, and dignity

MTAC’s mission is to offer financial help, practical services, and a caring network. They want survivors, thrivers, and families to face treatment with confidence and dignity. They focus on needs that public coverage misses, helping when work is paused and bills keep coming.

Vision: education, equitable screening, and strength through community

Their vision is to educate everyone about detection and treatment. They aim for fair screening in every region and strong support circles. By combining knowledge with access, MTAC supports families through every decision.

Impact highlights: funds raised, support bras, holiday baskets, volunteer hours

MTAC measures success in real results, not just promises. In September, they raised $53,000 for women who had to stop work for treatment.

They’ve donated 100% of profits, given out 150 support bras, and made holiday baskets. These baskets bring comfort during the holiday season. Volunteer hours power their work, including education and one-to-one support.

Events that mobilize giving: Harvest Brunch Launch, High Tea at the Ritz, Wellness Week

MTAC’s events turn goodwill into action. The Harvest Brunch brings together local leaders to start the year off strong. High Tea at the Ritz encourages donors to invest in ongoing care. Wellness Week focuses on education and self-care, reducing stress.

These events bring the community together, growing their impact all year round. They keep the mission and vision alive, inspiring neighbours, sponsors, and clinicians alike.

Practical Help MTAC Provides: From Financial Aid to Wellness Programs

More Than a Cure fills gaps where others stop. It eases daily worries so healing can focus. Families in Quebec and Canada get help with practical tools and care.

Financial aid for essentials: food, rent, utilities, childcare, medications

MTAC helps with food, rent, and utility bills. They also cover urgent transport and childcare when a parent is in treatment. Grants help with medications not covered by public plans.

When money is tight, MTAC sends holiday baskets and grocery cards. These small aids keep the lights on and meals simple, making treatment easier to follow.

Custom wigs and cold caps to preserve identity and dignity

MTAC offers custom wigs and cold caps during chemotherapy. These help protect hair follicles and reduce loss. The team guides patients through the process.

Many patients feel more confident with these options. They say it helps them feel like themselves at work, school, and family events.

Free educational workshops: breast exams, chemo and surgery prep, self-advocacy

MTAC provides free workshops on breast exams, chemotherapy, and surgery prep. They also cover self-advocacy in clinics. These are easy to watch at home.

These workshops use clear language. They help patients ask better questions and plan for their care. Caregivers can watch too, ensuring everyone is informed.

Wellness programs to improve outcomes and reduce stress

MTAC offers personalized wellness programs. These include gentle movement, stress management, and sleep routines. They fit treatment cycles and daily life.

MTAC also funds research to improve screening and care. A new program will support children through a parent’s diagnosis with age-appropriate resources and peer connections.

Scalp Cooling and Identity: Cold Cap Therapy in Canada

In Canada, cold cap therapy helps patients keep their identity and dignity during chemotherapy. It lowers scalp temperature, making hair loss prevention possible.

How cold caps work: freezing follicles to reduce chemo-related hair loss

Cold cap therapy cools the scalp to minus 30°C. This cold stops blood flow and slows drug delivery to hair follicles. As a result, hair loss is often reduced.

This method has been used in Europe for 30 years and is now growing in Canada. It helps patients feel more comfortable and in control during treatment.

Dr. Gafoor’s experience: keeping 80% of her hair

Dr. Tamara Gafoor used scalp cooling during chemotherapy. She kept about 80% of her hair, avoiding baldness. This helped her feel more like herself at work.

Access and awareness: 11% may refuse chemo due to hair loss concerns

Not everyone knows about scalp cooling, and it can be expensive. Some patients worry about how it will affect their appearance. Dr. Gafoor says about 11% of women might skip treatment because of hair loss fears.

Now, community groups help fund and provide training for cold cap therapy. This makes it easier for patients to focus on their health, not just their appearance.

Role of surgical oncologists like Dr. Stephanie Wong in recommending options

Getting advice early is important. A surgeon like Dr. Stephanie Wong can help patients get ready for treatment. Discussing scalp cooling at the start helps patients plan and prepare.

This approach helps patients stick to their treatment plans. It also makes hair loss prevention a common topic in Canadian cancer care.

Community Voices and Leadership: The People Behind MTAC

MTAC is all about skilled care, smart plans, and a community that helps patients and families. Its team mixes medical know-how with stories and support. They reach out to Canadians everywhere they are.

Founder profile: Dr. Gafoor’s McGill roots, ER leadership, and advocacy

Dr. Tamara Gafoor, the founder, went to McGill University. She works in Pediatric Emergency Medicine at the Montreal Children’s Hospital. She’s also an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics.

She leads the Pediatric Advanced Life Support Resuscitation Program at McGill University Health Centre. Her Instagram series “When To Freak” on @doctor.tammyg helps parents deal with emergencies. This shows MTAC’s focus on helping parents understand health issues.

Board of directors: physicians, health leaders, entrepreneurs, and creators

MTAC’s board has a wide range of skills and experiences. It includes doctors like Dr. Stephanie Wong and Dr. Karen Prakash. There’s also Dr. Mitch Heilpern and Dr. Daphna Dadoun.

Carlie Déjoie, a therapist, and Val Desjardins, a strength coach, are also on the board. Jennifer Campbell, Madelaine Kojakian, and Vanessa Strzelecki lead in media and events. Tatiana Londono, a real estate executive, and Katia Piccolino, from the Ritz-Carlton Montreal, join them.

Alex Shiller and Brittany Shiller bring education and design expertise. Keisha Gafoor, a specialized educator, and Kim Heilpern, a sales strategist, complete the team.

Warrior testimonials: tangible relief through aid, cold caps, and care baskets

Warrior stories talk about quick access to cold caps during chemo. They also mention grocery cards and bill help that eased financial stress. This let families focus on treatment.

Holiday baskets brought comfort when spirits were low. They included items that showed families were seen and cared for.

Social presence: @morethanacure and educational content for families

On Instagram @morethanacure, the team shares updates and resources. They help parents understand complex care and offer tips for clinics and wigs.

The community donates and volunteers through regular calls to action. This keeps programs running from hospitals to homes across Canada.

• Platforms: Instagram @morethanacure and @doctor.tammyg for quick guidance
• Focus areas: timely aid, equity in access, and clear language for families
• Roots: McGill University training and frontline Pediatric Emergency Medicine expertise
• People: a multidisciplinary board of directors and a growing volunteer community

Marylena Sicari

Marylena Sicari links health advocacy with the arts. As a canadian actress and singer, she shares vital stories. Her work connects people to important health education and support.

Canadian arts and culture tie-ins: canadian actress, filmography, biography, awards

Marylena Sicari has a growing filmography and a strong Toronto background. She uses her acting and singing to highlight real patient voices. Her work has earned her credibility and awards in the canadian film industry.

These achievements open doors for her to participate in panels and charity events. They also allow her to tell stories that promote equity and evidence-based resources.

Amplifying awareness via media: social media presence and upcoming projects in the canadian film industry.

Marylena Sicari is active on social media, keeping her audience engaged. She shares updates on her projects, along with tips on health and wellness.

By incorporating advocacy into her interviews, she helps her partners reach more people. This supports national campaigns and community events.

Cross-discipline support: canadian singer, music artist, toronto performer, vocal coach, music industry professional

As a music artist and performer in Toronto, she hosts benefit concerts and Q&As. She also works as a vocal coach, helping choirs and bands. This work supports various causes and helps her connect with her audience.

Her efforts help fund important initiatives like cold caps and educational kits. They also give creators a chance to make a difference.

How Canadians Can Help: Donate, Volunteer, and Share

Every small action helps a woman get the care she needs. In Canada, people can donate, volunteer, sponsor events, and share resources. This way, no one has to face treatment alone. Support also helps with wigs, cold caps, transport, and education through MoreThanACure.com and @morethanacure.

Donate to support financial aid, wigs, cold caps, and transport

Donations cover essential needs like food, rent, and medications. They also provide wigs and cold caps and transport to treatment. When Canadians donate, they make a real difference right away.

Volunteer and sponsor events that fuel MTAC’s impact

Volunteers in Montreal help with logistics and outreach. Businesses and individuals sponsoring events help too. Their support means more aid for women in treatment.

Share resources and workshops to increase screening and early detection

Sharing screening education saves families time and stress. Free videos and workshops teach about breast exams and more. This helps build a culture of early action in Canada.

Visit MoreThanACure.com and follow @morethanacure to stay engaged

For updates and ways to help, visit MoreThanACure.com and follow @morethanacure. Stay involved, sponsor events, or volunteer in Montreal. Together, we can expand access to care nationwide.

Conclusion

Dr. Tamara Gafoor started a fight in April 2022 for breast cancer equity and survivor advocacy. She went through chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and immunotherapy. Then, she created More Than a Cure to fill gaps in public coverage.

The MTAC impact is clear: they offer financial aid, wigs, cold caps, wellness programs, transport, support bras, and holiday baskets. All profits go back to patients in the Montreal community and beyond.

She talks about the hard truth: Black women face a 41% higher mortality rate. Many families spend $800–$1,000 a month on non-covered costs. MTAC is led by a 16-member board with diverse backgrounds.

They show how Canadian healthcare support grows when the community gets involved. With @morethanacure and her @doctor.tammyg “When To Freak” education, they focus on early detection and real help.

The first event raised $53,000, and every program focuses on dignity, access, and learning. The MTAC impact shows the power of care that goes beyond the basics.

Everyone can help: donate and volunteer, sponsor a fundraiser, and share trusted tools for early detection education. Together, they can drive breast cancer equity and strengthen survivor advocacy.