A possible prostate cancer diagnosis can bring a flood of questions. What happens next? How quickly will I be seen? Who can I call if I’m worried?

A transformative $5 million donation from the Hilary and Galen Weston Foundation has funded five new patient navigator positions across SHN, helping patients facing cancer, heart disease, severe wound care and other complex health challenges receive more coordinated, personalized support.

Sandra Weichel is the Weston Patient Navigator for Prostate Cancer, who helps patients move through testing, diagnosis and care with a clear point of contact by their side.

At Scarborough Health Network (SHN), donor support is helping ensure patients find answers.

A transformative $5 million donation from the Hilary and Galen Weston Foundation has funded five new patient navigator positions across SHN, helping patients facing cancer, heart disease, severe wound care and other complex health challenges receive more coordinated, personalized support.

Sandra Weichel is the Weston Patient Navigator for Prostate Cancer, who helps patients move through testing, diagnosis and care with a clear point of contact by their side.

“Cancer treatment is difficult for anyone, but imagine for people who have little knowledge about the healthcare system or who have language barriers. Here, I can build long relationships with patients to help them through their journey,” says Sandra.

Reaching hundreds of patients when they need support most

In just over just 11 months, 685 prostate cancer patients have been supported through the prostate cancer navigator role.

Sandra draws on more than 40 years of nursing experience, including over 20 years at SHN in paediatrics and surgical recovery.

She connects with approximately 12 patients per biopsy day, helping them prepare for their procedure, answering questions and ensuring they know what to expect. She also reviews incoming referrals to identify patients with a high PSA (prostate-specific antigen) or abnormal MRI result whose care may need to be expedited.

By the time a patient arrives for their biopsy, they have already spoken with Sandra and begun building a relationship with her.

One trusted guide through an uncertain journey

Sandra's support continues on biopsy day, when she works alongside the clinical team and is there for patients throughout their procedure. Afterwards, she provides recovery instructions, follows up and remains available when questions or concerns arise.

For patients who go on to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis, she can help them understand what comes next, coordinate with the Cancer Care team and connect them with additional SHN and community resources.

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. For patients facing difficult questions, donor support means having someone like Sandra by their side to help them find the answers.