CORNWALL, Ontario – Feb. 4 was World Cancer Day, and the Canadian Cancer Society of SD&G and Prescott-Russell invited Evelyn Berniqué to share her story at the Stomping Grounds Bistro in Cornwall.
In 1998, just before the Ice Storm, Evelyn was diagnosed with breast cancer, but after radiation and chemo therapy, she would perservere. In 2014, Evelyn would face cancer again, this time in the form of Follicular Lymphoma, but Evelyn beat cancer again after two years of treatment. In 2016, Evelyn would learn taht her breast cancer would return, this time she had no other option other than to undergo a mastectomy.
After overcoming her breast cancer again, Evelyn would face cancer one more time in 2017, when she was diagnosed with colon cancer. Evelyn explained that throughout her different diagnoses she drew strength from volunteering in the community and from her husband Gerry.
“My husband became my guardian angel,” Evelyn said. “There were times when I could shoot him, but really, he deserves a medal.”
Evelyn says she has been volunteering with the Canadian Cancer Society for 18 years and will likely be at this year’s Relay for Life on Friday, June 7 in Maxville.
The theme for this year’s event is James Bond. In addition to the annual walk around the track at the Maxville Fairgrounds, there will also be an opening ceremony and activities including a Casino Royale to go along with the walk and luminary ceremony.
“At the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) we know that while cancer changes people, it doesn’t have to define them,” said Allison St. Jean, Community Fundraising Specialist for the Canadian Cancer Society’s S.D.G. & Prescott-Russell Community Office. “We belive that life is bigger than cancer. That’s why today, on World Cancer Day, we want to officially kick off our Relay for Life season. We invite you to continue to help us make a difference for the one-in-two Canadians expected to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime by registering your team online at relayforlife.ca.”
Evelyn Berniqué for her part says that it is important for people to go for their regular check-ups.
“It is not always a death sentence,” she said. “It is always better to remain positive.”
