Over 100 women from Newfoundland and Labrador affected by cancer got together recently in St. John’s for a two-day conference.

The event offered women a chance to share their experiences, meet others who understand what they are going through, and find emotional support and connection. The initiative served as a reminder that they are not alone in their cancer journey.

A total of 135 women came together to share their experiences, learn from one another, and find support at the 2026 Newfoundland and Labrador Cancer Conference for Women in St. John’s. Participants said that being around people who understand what they are going through can make a big difference. The conference was organized by Cancer Care Foundation N.L. to help women build friendships, find strength, and remember they do not have to face cancer alone.

The co-founder of the conference, Joan Aucoin, is a breast cancer survivor herself, and she started the initiative so that other women with cancer could receive the same support she had during her treatment. Her fellow co-chair, Sondria Browne, also a breast cancer survivor, helped create the event so women with all types of cancer could find support. Their goal is to help women realize they are not alone and that they can find friendship, support, and a community beyond their cancer journey.

Participants in the conference had the chance to explore a vendor market featuring various services and organizations that support women with cancer, such as the Avalon Dragons and the Canadian Cancer Society.

Source: Abby Cole, CBC