In April 2015, Gordana Gavranovic was just 44 years old when she got the news that she had breast cancer. Within a month’s time, she had noticed a pain in her right breast and received the startling diagnosis that upended her life. The Serbian-born Oakville resident was speechless when the doctors first told her. “They asked me if I had any questions and I said no. I couldn’t speak.”
Prior to this diagnosis she had never had any health issues and was an extremely active person, running a successful transportation company with her husband and spending time with her two children, doing activities she loved like riding bikes, walking and reading. She was shocked and upset – there was no room for this kind of devastating news in her busy, happy life.
The rest of Gordana’s year involved intensive treatment at Trillium Health Partners’ Credit Valley Hospital, including two surgeries to remove the cancer that was detected in both breasts, six rounds of chemotherapy and 21 sessions of radiation, finishing December 2015.
“When I lost my hair, I cried like a baby. I had long hair and that was the only thing that really upset me,” recalls Gordana of one of her lowest points during the eight-month ordeal. She was sad but quickly picked herself back up. “I got a wig, wore makeup. I made a point of going for dinner with friends and remained social. That helped me a lot.”
In addition to her positivity and the support of loved ones, Gordana speaks highly of her care team, particularly Medical Oncologist Dr. Brian Higgins, who Gordana describes as “cool, compassionate and an excellent doctor,” always making her feel comfortable and supported.
Seven years have passed and she’s been in remission, dedicating her spare time to volunteering with the charity Breast Cancer Canada, raising money and awareness for the cause. Recently, she took part in a photoshoot with other cancer survivors and it was that experience that spurred an idea.
“I thought ‘maybe we can put the picture on one of my company’s trucks,’” says Gordana. And so the empowering photo was plastered on two trucks – one donated by a customer and one Gordana’s company paid for – travelling across the United States and Canada and bringing awareness to women all over North America.
“For me, it was time to get over what I went through by giving back. I’ve met so many survivors and this continues to inspire me to raise money. I have been through a lot but still I’m here and that’s the reason I’m doing this. Raising awareness and supporting other women is the most important thing.”
Inspired by Gordana’s story? Consider giving a gift.