Claudia Gagnon, a 32-year-old mother from Chicoutimi, is battling aggressive brain cancer, diagnosed on her wedding day. Despite her struggles, she aims to help others by creating an educational video on breast self-exams and selling “support balls” for cancer awareness. Previously, she fought stage 4 breast cancer during her pregnancy, determined to survive for her family. Claudia’s journey reflects resilience and a commitment to empowering others facing similar challenges.
A Brave Mother’s Journey Through Cancer
After facing the challenges of two cancer diagnoses, one of which occurred on her wedding day, a dedicated mother from Chicoutimi is determined to spend her remaining time helping others impacted by this devastating disease.
Claudia Gagnon, a 32-year-old mother of three, including two young daughters aged three and four and a stepson of 13, is currently battling an aggressive and incurable form of brain cancer. Her world turned upside down on August 10, the day she was set to marry, when excruciating headaches struck her as she prepared to don her wedding dress.
The Wedding Day Crisis
“It was a challenging moment, but I managed to walk down the aisle,” Claudia recalls with a smile, despite the circumstances. However, shortly after exchanging vows, she was rushed to the hospital by ambulance, missing out on her wedding night. A 2.5 cm tumor was discovered in her brain shortly thereafter.
“This was a nightmare for everyone… especially since we had chosen this day to celebrate life and look forward to remission,” shares Claudia, who works as a nurse. Although she underwent successful surgery on August 19, cancer had already spread to her cerebrospinal fluid, requiring her to endure painful daily “drainages.”
Her husband, Mathieu Lavoie, describes the immense suffering she endures, as she remains hospitalized in Chicoutimi since early September. The cancer not only causes severe nausea but also affects her ability to speak and see.
“All she longs for is to regain her sight, to see her daughters again,” Mathieu says, fighting back tears. Despite her fragile condition, Claudia has made the courageous decision to commence another round of “palliative” chemotherapy, hoping to extend her time with her family.
From Survivor to Advocate
Claudia is no stranger to cancer; she previously battled it three years ago. In November 2021, while she was 36 weeks pregnant, she was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, which had metastasized to her bones. Following a premature delivery, she faced six months of intense chemotherapy.
“I was told my chances of survival were below 18%. But I only needed one chance; I couldn’t let my family down,” she reflects emotionally.
Driven to make a difference, Claudia feels frustrated that such challenges have overshadowed what should be joyous moments in her life. She aims to create an educational video to empower women to conduct their own breast self-examinations, believing that awareness is crucial. “There’s not enough conversation about this,” she emphasizes.
This informative video, produced with the help of clinical nurses at Chicoutimi Hospital, is set to be released soon. Additionally, Claudia has designed decorative ornaments for Christmas trees, known as “support balls,” which will be available for purchase in local stores. Proceeds from these sales will benefit the Cancer Saguenay organization.