When Joy Abbas lost her nephew to colorectal cancer, she carried the pain and lessons of that experience with her every day. A long-time nurse at SHN, she never imagined how that loss would later guide her into a brand-new role—one where she could make sure no patient ever felt alone on their cancer journey.

“I’ve always had a connection to patients going through this,” Joy says. “And when I saw the new patient navigator role posted, especially in colorectal cancer, I knew I had to apply.”

In September 2024, Joy became SHN’s first Weston Patient Navigator for Colorectal and Other Cancers, thanks to a generous $5 million donation from the Hilary and Galen Weston Foundation, which has funded five new navigator roles across SHN in areas such as heart failure, wound care, prostate cancer, and more.

Bringing 35+ Years of Nursing Experience to Cancer Care

With over 35 years of dedicated nursing experience at SHN—including more than 20 years in the endoscopy department—Joy brings deep expertise and continuity of care to her new role. Now serving as a patient navigator, she is the key point of contact for patients newly diagnosed with colorectal or gastrointestinal cancers, guiding and supporting them from their first appointment through treatment and beyond.

“I’m there from the very beginning,” Joy says. “I meet with them at their initial visit, help arrange diagnostics, coordinate tests, and most importantly make sure they never feel lost. I give them a pamphlet, my phone number, and let them know I’m just a call away.”

Closing Gaps in Colorectal Cancer Care

A colorectal cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, especially when layered with language barriers, health equity challenges, or unfamiliarity with the healthcare system. Joy sees her job as both a guide and an advocate.

Before this role existed, she often noticed a troubling pattern. “For years, we’d see patients get diagnosed and then just… go home,” she said.

Now, with the Weston Foundation’s support, that gap is being filled. “When patients leave with my name and number, they know someone is in their corner. It changes everything.”

The impact is already clear. Joy and her team are seeing improved outcomes, especially among patients who may otherwise fall through the cracks. “Whether it’s someone newly immigrated, someone facing income challenges, or someone who doesn’t speak English, this role ensures they’re not navigating it alone.”

Raising Awareness and Breaking Stigma

Part of Joy’s mission is also spreading awareness about colorectal cancer—a disease that still carries stigma and is often misunderstood.

“The biggest thing I’d say to our community is don’t be shy to get scoped. There’s so much fear, embarrassment, and misinformation. People don’t want to take two days off work or deal with the prep, but early detection can save your life.”

Colorectal Cancer is Affecting Younger Adults

She’s also seeing a disturbing trend. “We’re getting younger and younger patients—some in their 20s. It used to be an older person’s disease, but not anymore. That’s why awareness and access are so important.”

A Legacy of Compassion

Joy’s dedication exemplifies the profound impact that patient navigators have on individuals and families. Through her work, she not only honors her nephew’s legacy but also embodies the spirit of empathy and resilience that defines SHN’s commitment to patient-centered care.

“We’re adapting things with the Patient Navigator program every day to make sure this sticks and that it works for our patients,” says Joy. “I love my role and am honoured to work with these patients. This isn’t just a job, it’s a privilege.”

“When patients leave with my name and number, they know someone is in their corner. It changes everything.”