This weekend, Stratford will host the highly anticipated Patient Education Symposium, aimed at those affected by cancer. Taking place on Sunday, April 5, starting at 9:30 a.m. at Grayson Mills, this event promises to be a beacon of hope for patients and their families navigating the complexities of cancer.

Tammy Quigley, the regional vice president for the Southwest Regional Cancer Program, expressed her enthusiasm about the symposium. “It's an incredible opportunity for us to engage with patients and families who have been on their cancer journey,” she noted. Quigley emphasizes the importance of involving cancer patients and their families in the conversation around their care. “Our philosophy is that there is nothing about us without us. While healthcare providers may assume they know what information patients need and how they prefer to receive it, it’s vital to engage those who have lived the experience.”

In a time when cancer statistics highlight a grim reality—one in two Ontarians will likely face a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime—there is encouraging news on the survival front. “Looking back 30 or 40 years, a breast cancer diagnosis meant only a 67% chance of surviving five years,” Quigley conveyed. “Today, thanks to advancements in cancer treatment, that likelihood has soared to nearly 90%.” This transformation in cancer care underscores the incredible progress being made in the fight against the disease.

The symposium will feature four main sessions designed not only to present information but to gather valuable feedback directly from patients and their families. These sessions will cover topics such as Navigating Cancer and Healthcare Information, After Treatment and Survivorship, a presentation from community partners, and discussions surrounding the 2025/2026 Regional Patient Education priorities.

“The purpose of this day is to gain insight and feedback from those who matter most: the patients and families,” Quigley added. “Our first session focuses on how to effectively navigate the vast amount of information regarding healthcare and cancer. Given the overwhelming amount of online resources, we want to ask those affected how they prefer to receive that information. Following this, we’ll discuss the gaps in education concerning life after cancer treatment, and we are eager to hear about their experiences.”

A special presentation from Wellspring, a critical resource within the cancer community, is also on the agenda, promising to enrich the day with their expertise and insights. As the day wraps up, the focus will shift to synthesizing the feedback gathered, which will help shape future educational programs aimed at better supporting cancer patients and their families in the coming year.

The Patient Education Symposium represents a significant moment for the community—a chance to not only share information but to create a collaborative environment where the voices of survivors and their loved ones lead the conversation about cancer education and support. Mark your calendars and join us in Stratford for a day of empowerment and connection!