Your investment in research has given Tootsie more time with her loved ones.
Donors’ generous support has made an impact on many Manitobans affected by cancer, including Tootsie. Channeling her own cancer diagnosis, Tootsie has deeply connected to people in her beloved community of Winnipeg Beach in a new way.
Tootsie’s first experience with cancer was in 2018. Following a routine surgery to remove her gallbladder, she was shocked to learn that she had cancer. Her future felt uncertain as she underwent numerous tests. Fortunately, doctors determined that the cancer had not spread, and the initial surgery was a success.
Then in 2022, after experiencing some concerning symptoms, she was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. The news was devastating for Tootsie and her family. She began radiation immediately, and soon learned that she was eligible to receive a new type of immunotherapy treatment.
Tootsie’s treatment was developed through years of donor funded research. This therapy trained her immune system to attack the cancer cells in her body.
Over the next two years Tootsie received immunotherapy every three weeks. During this challenging time in her life, she came to understand the importance of cancer research. She is grateful for donors’ support which helped her care team to access an innovative treatment that has given her more time with the people she loves.
Tootsie’s next scans revealed positive news – the tumour on her lung had shrunk significantly. Today, she continues with regular appointments to monitor her cancer. Overall, she is feeling positive thanks to donors and the loving support of her family.
Tootsie openly shares her story with people in her community of Winnipeg Beach to create awareness, and to fundraise in support of other people impacted by cancer. “I’m so lucky to live in a town where people support me. I enjoy fundraising because I know it is for a good cause,” said Tootsie. “It’s amazing to me the connections that have come from sharing my cancer story. It has been rewarding in so many ways and helped me meet so many new friends.”
Tootsie is grateful to donors who have helped her have more time with her family including five grandkids and two great-grandkids. Manitobans generous support of local research has truly made a difference for Tootsie and for her community. “If it wasn’t for donor support of research, I truly believe that I wouldn’t be here today.”