Rima Andre - 2016

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A journey of survivorship, resilience and courage!

At age 35 as a young adult, on Sept 2009 I was diagnosed with aggressive stage 4 metastatic breast and liver cancer.

I’m sharing my story to motivate, to inspire, and to bring hope to others. I have adopted from an early age an optimistic and competitive attitude that has proved vital in my life. Through the love and support of my family, friends and medical professionals I was able to overcome four cancer diagnoses and persevered with a strengthened attitude and willpower.

My life is filled with richness, vitality and many accomplishments which I’m so proud off. As of April 2016 almost 6.5 years after my cancer diagnoses I continue to be in remission. I'm very passionate and disciplined with a routine of yoga, cycling, walking & running and indoor rock wall climbing. I began cycling and running competitively in 2013 and since then I've had 18 victories in 'crossing the finish line' with more to come. This has helped with my endurance and mental grit.

My attitude is one of perseverance and determination with an iron-clad belief in myself, that I can accomplish absolutely anything I set my mind to. I do not let cancer control my life. Attitude is everything and each person needs an unrelenting spirit and desire to live.

You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.

-Become intoxicated by your life & not your illness.


"Cancer Survivorship"
Some of the key elements I have changed in my life are:

-diet & nutrition
-exposure to lots of sunshine & fresh air
-reducing & managing stress
-recapturing joy
-finding new meaning & purpose
-practicing gratitude
-relaxation & meditation
-exercise & outdoor activity
-managing better sleeping habits & rest
-advocating, alternative natural therapies
-freedom & happiness
-cancer support groups
-networking with various cancer communities to learn & get inspired
-education about the disease
-practicing mindfulness & positive thoughts
-following my dreams & goals and fulfill them
-keep positive people in my life
-continuously set new goals
-build strong & respectful relationships with my health care professionals
-daily practice of self care, self love & self responsibility
-believing in myself, practicing compassion, patience & empathy
-having beliefs and practicing spirituality


A huge thanks to my wonderful family, friends, my amazing cancer communities and all of my medical professionals who have helped me, and inspired me on my journey!

Thank you, your donation brings hope and promise to myself and thousands of cancer patients in British Columbia, Canada, and beyond.