Marcy Weston

I'm on a mission to support those facing cancer

On May 4, I turn 42. And while I’m normally a pretty low-key birthday person, this year’s a little different.

Why? Because on July 11, 2024, just 18 days after completing the Mont Tremblant Half Ironman, I was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Yes — I trained for months, crossed the finish line, celebrated the achievement, and then got hit with a plot twist.

The good news? We caught it early. Thanks to Nova Scotia’s breast screening program, a few margaritas with friends (more on that in a minute), and a lot of stubborn follow-up, I’m now focused on prevention and recovery.

And this September, I’m joining the BMO Ride for Cancer — to raise money for better cancer care, earlier detection, and life-saving treatment options for others.

A Little Backstory (With Some Margarita Wisdom)

I found a lump, but like many people, I convinced myself it was nothing — maybe a swollen lymph node. Also like many people, I avoided making a doctor’s appointment because…well, it felt hard.

Then one night, over margaritas with friends (shoutout to margarita medicine), I casually mentioned it. That conversation changed everything. They told me I could self-refer for a mammogram at 40 in Nova Scotia. I had no idea.

It still took me a few months, but I eventually called. I got in within two weeks at the Halifax Breast Screening Clinic. What followed was a rollercoaster of tests, referrals, and the kind of waiting that makes you question the meaning of life and your Wi-Fi signal.

When Things Got Real

After follow-up mammograms and ultrasounds at the IWK, I got booked for a biopsy — two days after my race. The radiologist said there was a 50/50 chance I had cancer in my left breast and 50–90% chance of cancer on the right. At that point, I knew. 

Sixteen days later, I got the call confirming it was invasive ductal carcinoma in my right breast. The left side? Don't know but we suggest cutting out the problematic area for further testing - surgeons love to cut stuff. I told my doctors I wanted a bilateral mastectomy — no loyalty to these boobs. They tried to kill me. They had to go.

Surgery, Setbacks & Silver Linings

Surgery on October 9th went well. Clear margins. No lymph node involvement. The left side confirmed to be Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) — stage 0.

Then, just when I thought I was in the clear, I got an infection. Not just any infection, a multi-drug resistant infection. I just called it “a week in the hospital with bonus IV meds and a revolving door of residents.”

The Future Looks Bright (and Very Estrogen-Free)

After genetic testing on my tumour (thanks to advances in cancer care), I learned that chemotherapy wouldn’t significantly help prevent recurrence, so I’m on endocrine therapy instead — blocking estrogen to reduce risk. I started treatment in December and had reconstruction surgery just before Christmas. Santa brought me new boobs.

I’ve been incredibly lucky. I had a great care team, a curious brain, a support system that includes my husband, family, friends, and a couple of cats who think they’re nurses. I’ve had access to world-class care, and I’m able to focus now on helping others.

Why I Ride

I’m riding in the 2025 Ride for Cancer because not everyone gets the early detection I did. Because we need better tools, faster diagnoses, and smarter treatments. Because breast cancer is scary — but treatable when caught early. And because I want other women to feel empowered to speak up, ask questions, and advocate for their health (margaritas optional but encouraged).

This year, instead of birthday gifts, I’m asking for donations to support this cause. Every dollar helps bring precision oncology to more people — ensuring they get the treatment that’s right for their cancer.

If my story made you laugh, cry, or check your own boobs — please consider donating.

Thanks for reading. Thanks for riding alongside me — in spirit or spandex.