IS CANCER COLOUR-BLIND? Michelle Audoin on Black Women and Cancer by Madina Tabesh.

Is Cancer Colour-Blind?

Michelle Audoin is driving change by highlighting the unique experience of Black women with cancer. Madina Tabesh

When Michelle Audoin was diagnosed with cancer in 2017, she wasn’t expecting to become an advocate for Black women facing cancer. But for this teacher, wife and mother of two, speaking out about her own experience and encouraging other Black women to do the same was a necessity.

“My breast cancer was already at an advanced stage, but the healthcare professionals didn’t realize that until after the initial biopsy. I had to really advocate for myself at this time.” Michelle notes that Black women have unique challenges in the cancer care space that others may not. For instance, “in Canada we don’t collect race-based data and that’s problematic. Some forms of breast cancer affect Black women differently. And if Black women aren’t aware of their risk, they won’t speak out for themselves. I think Black women need to know they can be at risk.”

After a diagnosis, knowing what to expect during treatment helps many women feel prepared. But when the images available in doctor’s offices, pamphlets, and television are of women who don’t look like you, it can be difficult for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour) people to feel supported or ready to take on their diagnosis.

“I was two years into breast cancer and hadn’t seen myself reflected in the materials I received”, says Michelle. “There is also a lack of other racialized or Black women in clinical trials. I know for me and other Black women, we experienced side effects from treatment that were not on the list. When you bring this up, your medical team may not even have the information, or take your concerns seriously. But, when you talk to other Black women, they also experience the same sideeffects.”

For Michelle, speaking up and being gentle with herself was key throughout her diagnosis. She played a key role in creating Uncovered: A Breast Recognition Project, with Rethink Breast Cancer highlighting the unique experience of Black women with cancer in both words

When the images are of women who don’t look like you, it can be difficult to feel supported. 

My breast cancer was already at an advanced stage... I had to really advocate for myself.

and photography. Michelle also connected with LGFB to help inform its programming, training, imagery and language to better reflect a diverse community.

Michelle is driving change in how Black women with cancer are supported and seen in Canada. She hopes that by sharing her story, she will inspire systemic change as well as show other Black women with cancer that their experiences are valid and inspire them to share their stories, so they can feel better supported.

Click here for our full interview with Michelle Audoin. “I HAVE A QUESTION”

How to advocate for yourself and get more out of visits to any healthcare provider.

PRE-APPOINTMENT:

 Make a list of all medications you take.  Write down your questions & concerns.  Ask a friend or family member to join you for support.  Compile your family history if it is available to you.  Check if your hospital offers translation services if needed.

APPOINTMENT DAY:

 Remember to bring your Health Card and/or necessary documents.  Bring your list – it’s okay to ask questions and advocate for yourself!  Take notes to help you remember later – your support person is also a second set of ears.  Clarify next steps and timing before leaving.

POST-APPOINTMENT:

 Review notes and fill any prescriptions given.  Call doctor’s office for clarification, if needed.  Schedule next visit or tests, if needed.

Fearless is the new Flawless

Look Good Feel Better has been helping women with cancer feel like themselves again for the past 30 years. We are proud to support an organization that focuses on women’s well-being and quality of life during a difficult time. Look Good Feel Better’s commitment to women’s empowerment continues to be an inspiration for Sephora Canada. We remain equally devoted to creating a world where each person feels empowered to define their individual beauty, champion it fearlessly, and belong beautifully… at any stage in life. Congratulations on three decades of effort, education and community-centric support!

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Feeling like yourself helps lift your spirit.

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