BRIGHT Run’s 2026 survivor spokesperson.
Physiotherapist Jenna Smith-Turchyn’s career trajectory changed because of her breast cancer experience.
Jenna Smith-Turchyn had just turned 26. She had just graduated from physiotherapy school, become engaged to Neil, bought a home. It was 2010.
Then she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
“Our lives changed,” Jenna said. “But I was determined not to let it get in the way of our plans
Jenna was diagnosed at Stage 1 and had the whole gamut of treatment: surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and hormone and immunotherapy.
The diagnosis and treatment cast some uncertainty, but she persevered and now has two children and a successful career.
Jenna and Neil started BRIGHT Run team Jenna’s Joggers in 2010. That year, Jenna ran the 5k route barely two days after her first chemo treatment.
They missed one BRIGHT Run because of their honeymoon, but have participated every year since their first outing, usually with a team of 10 to 20 family members and friends.
“It’s a great atmosphere of support and hope,” Jenna said of the BRIGHT Run. “And the funds stay in Hamilton, which is so important to me.”
As a person who always enjoyed fitness, Jenna was expecting some rehabilitation therapy during her cancer journey, but it didn’t happen. So back to school she went to do a PhD in Rehabilitation Science.
Turning to research, Jenna and a colleague were granted BRIGHT Run funds for a randomized, controlled trial to determine the impact of physical rehab on the quality of life and physical function of individuals with cancer during treatment.
Based on that trial, which included 83 patients, the Canadian Cancer Society picked up the project and funded an expansion to patients in other parts of Ontario.
“I hope rehabilitation will become a standard of care in Canada,” Jenna said. “I want it to be available to everyone to minimize functional decline and maximize participation in meaningful activities during and after breast cancer treatment.”
Taking on the role of BRIGHT Run survivor spokesperson, Jenna said, provides an opportunity for her to use her story to highlight who cancer can affect.
“No one has to walk the path alone,” she said. “I want us to celebrate all the research BRIGHT Run has supported and the courage of patients and survivors.”
To learn more about Jenna’s journey, set your alarm on Tuesday June 16. Jenna and BRIGHT Run event chair Nancy McMillan will be chatting with Annette Hamm on CH Morning Live at about 7:15 a.m. You don’t want to miss it!
