Imagine emerging from breast cancer treatment not just alive, but truly empowered to reclaim your life— that's the heart of survivorship, and it's what makes events like this conference so vital. But here's where it gets really compelling: how do we bridge the gaps in recovery and support that so many survivors face? Let's dive into an exciting upcoming event that's set to spark those very conversations.
David W. Lim, a dedicated surgical oncologist and the Medical Director of the Henrietta Banting Breast Centre at Women’s College Hospital, recently posted on LinkedIn about his role in leading discussions at the Breast Cancer Survivorship and Supportive Care International Conference. For those new to this world, a surgical oncologist specializes in operations to remove cancers, and survivorship refers to the long-term journey after treatment, focusing on quality of life, emotional health, and preventing recurrence. You can check out his full post here: (https://www.linkedin.com/posts/david-w-lim-4abb756abreastcancersurvivorship-supportivecare-oncologyconference-activity-7398063360384348161-cP-8?utmsource=share&utmmedium=memberdesktop&rcm=ACoAAELNDS4BPuVMU-mZbul07-k5CmTl5Y0W3eM).
He's thrilled to moderate two standout sessions on Friday, November 28, in Toronto— a key part of the conference running November 28-29, 2025, at The Westin Harbour Castle. With over 300 participants expected, it's a powerhouse gathering of experts, patients, and advocates. And this is the part most people miss: these sessions aren't just talks; they're practical guides to real-world challenges in cancer care.
The first session, from 9:30 to 10:30 AM, is titled 'Beyond the Operating Room: Predicting and Managing Post-Surgical Functional Impairments and Recovery in Breast Cancer Survivorship.' This dives into what happens after surgery— things like mobility issues, pain management, and rebuilding strength— which can feel overwhelming for beginners but are crucial for long-term well-being. For example, imagine dealing with arm swelling or fatigue that lingers; the speakers will share evidence-based strategies to predict and tackle these. Featured experts include Toni Zhong, a breast reconstructive surgeon from University Health Network who helps restore confidence through innovative procedures; Margie McNeely, a clinician-scientist at the University of Alberta researching rehab techniques; and Emma Mauti, a physiatrist at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre specializing in physical medicine to aid recovery. Joining them as a patient advocate is Penka Petrova, whose personal insights will ground the discussion in lived experience.
Then, from 2:30 to 3:30 PM, the focus shifts to 'Addressing the Unique Needs of LGBTQ+ in Breast Cancer Survivorship.' Boldly put, this session tackles a often-overlooked area: how sexual orientation and gender identity intersect with cancer care, from tailored emotional support to navigating biases in healthcare. Co-moderated by Gary Ko, a clinical associate breast surgical oncologist at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, it features Jean-Marc Bourque, a radiation oncologist at CHUM – Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, discussing treatment adaptations; Margo Kennedy, an oncology social worker and psychotherapist at University Health Network, on mental health nuances; and Christian Schulz-Quach, a psychiatrist at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, exploring psychological impacts. Patient advocate MJ Tomlinson will add a vital voice, highlighting stories that remind us care must be inclusive.
But here's where it gets controversial: While strides have been made in general cancer survivorship, support for LGBTQ+ patients sometimes lags behind, raising questions about equity in medicine. Is the healthcare system doing enough to make everyone feel seen and supported? It's a counterpoint worth pondering— perhaps traditional protocols need bolder overhauls to truly embrace diversity.
Overseeing the event's scientific planning is Chair Dr. Muna Al-Khaifi, with Co-Chair Jennifer Jones and a stellar committee including Maryam Lustberg, Larissa Nekhlyudov, Amanda Roberts, Michelle Audoin, Philiz G., Dr. Arielle Buch-Frohlich, Noam Raiter, Flay Charbonneau, Italo Fernandes, and Samantha Kennedy. Dr. Al-Khaifi, who leads the Breast Cancer Survivorship Program and works as a GP oncologist in the Skin Cancer Clinic at Sunnybrook, amplified the excitement in her own LinkedIn post (https://www.linkedin.com/posts/muna-al-khaifibreastcancersurvivorship-supportivecare-oncologyconference-activity-7398072801087295488-G5rk?utmsource=share&utmmedium=memberdesktop&rcm=ACoAAELNDS4BPuVMU-mZbul07-k5CmTl5Y0W3eM). She said they're over the moon to have David moderating these pivotal panels, emphasizing how 'When a community comes together, knowledge grows, and care transforms.' This year's lineup boasts top national and international speakers— true trailblazers in survivorship— and with more than 300 attendees registered, the energy is palpable.
Want to learn more or join in? Head to the conference website (https://breast-survivorship-conference.ca/) for details. For additional insights on David W. Lim, see (https://oncodaily.com/tag/david-w-lim), and for Muna Al-Khaifi, check (https://oncodaily.com/tag/muna-al-khaifi).
What do you think— is enough being done to address the specific needs of diverse groups like LGBTQ+ survivors in oncology? Share your thoughts in the comments below; I'd love to hear if you've experienced gaps in care or seen inspiring examples of inclusive support. Let's keep the conversation going!
