A Promising Challenge for Breast Cancer Research

Kim Joubert conceived the Challenge rose after receiving a diagnosis of an aggressive breast cancer. Now in remission, she wanted to make a meaningful difference by creating a challenge that directly supports breast cancer research.

Held in Guatemala, the Challenge rose combined wellness and personal growth through hiking, yoga, meditation, health workshops, and meaningful opportunities to connect with others. The highlight of the experience was the ascent of Acatenango Volcano, a climb of more than 1,600 metres in elevation gain. Participants were rewarded with breathtaking scenery and powerful, emotional moments along the way.

More than 90% of breast cancer-related deaths are associated with metastasis, a process in which cancer cells leave the primary tumour and spread to other organs.

Thanks to the funds raised, Loïc Binan, a researcher at the Lady Davis Institute of McGill University, has received an operating grant from the Cancer Research Society for his innovative project: Profiling the migratory path of metastatic cells in tissue. The project aims to reconstruct the journey of cancer cells as they travel throughout the body.

His team will modify cancer cells so that they leave a molecular trace as they move. This approach will allow researchers to track their path and better understand what attracts these cells to specific organs. Ultimately, this work could shed new light on how and why metastases develop and contribute to the development of new strategies to better treat, or even prevent, metastatic disease.