In the face of cancer, we help people feel more like themselves again by EDUCATING and EMPOWERING them to help manage the appearance-related impact of the disease and its treatment.
By building and delivering our programs with EMPATHY and EQUITY, we reflect and respect the unique experiences of all.
Reflecting on our accomplishments in 2023, your contribution has been pivotal to our success. From the re-opening of our many in-person programs and impactful new workshops to the success of the Facing Cancer Together podcast, your influence is truly commendable. Your unwavering dedication has not only broadened our resources but also deepened our connections within the community. We take immense pride in acknowledging your role in shaping these significant milestones.
Now, more than ever, we focus on supporting people of all ages, socioeconomic statuses, ethnicities, gender identities, and those in remote locations often overlooked by healthcare. This awareness propels our continuous expansion into new opportunities to reach individuals at every stage of their cancer treatment.
We are so excited as we enter a new era of accessibility and connectivity. We warmly invite you, our community, to stand by LGFB as we embark on the next chapter of this evolving journey to help those facing cancer live well.
For more than 30 years, we have delivered our core workshop for women, addressing the appearance-related effects of cancer treatment. Over the years, we’ve added new workshops for teens and another for men, plus one on breast forms and garments. But studies reveal a gap in our healthcare system for individuals completing cancer treatment who are seeking psychosocial support. The need for emotional and practical support does not end when treatment is over. 1
LGFB teamed up with long-time LGFB Volunteer Lisa Horne, who is also a cancer coach and registered holistic nutritionist, to design the Post-Treatment Nutrition session, featuring the fundamental principles of a wellbalanced diet, immune-boosting foods, and nutrition insights. Our first workshop attracted 529 people. Post Treatment Nutrition is part of our Feel Better Series, specifically aimed at people near the end of or after treatment.
We develop our workshops with our four guiding principles in mind: Empathy, Education, Empowerment, and Equity.
Our program provides simple steps and clear information, and, most importantly, it empowers individuals by giving them control and tools to make informed decisions. This includes simple approaches like the 80/20 rule, encouraging mindfulness 80% of the time while enjoying favourite snacks without fear or guilt occasionally (the other 20%).
Lisa Horne, Nutritionist
Feedback from our surveys and the diverse group of participants from across Canada attending our monthly sessions have demonstrated positive outcomes. For instance, one survey participant shared that the 80/20 rule helped her “show kindness to herself and shift her mindset”.
In 2024, the Feel Better Series will continue with additional Post-Treatment Nutrition workshops as well as new topics and speakers.
1 Canadian Partnership Against Cancer Experiences of Cancer Patients in Transition Study: Emotional Challenges, March 2018
I have been struggling with what to eat to prevent reoccurrence - the 80/20 was soooo helpful in helping me be kinder to myself! A change of mindset!
- Emily R., Workshop Participant
Insights into the Gut Microbiome
Food Absorption
Key Nutrients to help vitamin and mineral deficiencies
How food can help improve energy, support immune function, and promote mental clarity.
At the Look Good Feel Better workshops, we often hear how important it is to feel seen, understood, and not alone when facing cancer.
LGFB Chief Operating Officer – and podcast host - Susan Larkin, shares how the Facing Cancer Together podcast was inspired by our workshop participants and the crucial need for connection.
What prompted the creation of the Facing Cancer Together Podcast?
Many participants come to our workshops looking for the practical content we offer – but our post-workshop surveys reveal that the true magic of our programming is the connection and sense of community created. Workshop participants state how much better they feel realizing “It’s not just me, I’m not alone.” A podcast felt like a wonderful opportunity to expand that feel-better connection using a different delivery method – it is an extension of our ongoing blog series.
Who are the guests?
We wanted to provide a range of voices so there would be at least one guest who would resonate with an individual listener. So, we reached out to people in different stages of their cancer journey with diversity in age, cancer type, racial background, and geography. We also wanted to bring forward experts who could deliver practical information that also supported psychosocial care (just as we do in our workshops). We were very proud to have other like-minded nonprofits in the space to join us. I was touched by how open and raw our guests were with their
personal cancer experiences. It was an absolute privilege to be part of it.
Is the podcast just for those facing cancer?
This podcast is for anyone affected by cancer— patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, friends and even coworkers. I hope that by listening to the podcast, people realize there is no right or wrong way to approach cancer. We are all unique in our needs – and those needs may also change. The podcast actually sparked a conversation between my partner and me about how we may approach a health crisis and revealed the differences in our needs and preferences.
Does any one episode stand out to you?
Oh, gosh. That’s tough. They are all so incredible in different ways. I think what stands out for me is the incredible range of emotions and reactions from each guest – from fear, frustration, tears, and anger to laughter, love, compassion, and kindness. Because we are all human – and we are not alone.
8,289 total Downloads in 2023, and counting
Don’t lose you in the process. Remember who you were, remember who you are. This is just something that you have to focus on for a little bit. You have to get through it stage by stage, but you can’t deal with it all at once.” - Bonnie Walker, Episode 13 You Got This
Listen here
• You Have Cancer – Now What?
• This Is Supposed To Be Normal?
• Living With Cancer (Part 1)
• Support Systems
• Living With Cancer (Part 2)
• Navigating Nutrition
• Brave, Fierce, And Funny (Part 1)
• Brave, Fierce, And Funny (Part 2)
• Unique Experiences
• Talking To Your Kids About Cancer
• How to Feel Like Yourself
• Back To Work; Back To “Normal”
• You Got This
89 . 1 %
4
,8 50
41 %
530
participants attended our online or in-person workshops online and in-person workshops held
92 %
increase from 2022 increase from 2022
96 % of our participants reported feeling somewhat confident about their appearance AFTER our workshop, compared to 32% reporting feeling somewhat confident before attending. of participants would recommend our workshop to another person facing cancer
Sout’s story is one of strength and independence. As a firstgeneration immigrant from Laos who moved to Canada when she was 19 years old, she chose to face her diagnosis alone, sparing her distant family from the weight of her struggles. In this solo journey, Look Good Feel Better emerged as an undeniable ally.
“The essence of who I am is a helper. I’ve always been there for others, offering a hand in difficult times. When I got diagnosed with cancer, Look Good Feel Better became a support network I could rely on—a source of strength and normalcy amid uncertainty.”
For Sout, maintaining a positive appearance became a way to shield loved ones from worry. She didn’t want to appear sick so that people wouldn’t feel sorry for her and be concerned.
The decision to shave her head, steeped in cultural significance, became a moment of liberation for Sout. It connected her with family across borders and anchored her to her roots.
Attending a LGFB workshop also became an empowering moment in her journey.
“Connecting with the participants and the volunteers during the workshop was wonderful. Everyone was so kind, which was truly heartwarming – especially when you’re by yourself like I’ve mostly been throughout this experience.”
In the face of isolation, Sout found humanity and warmth in the camaraderie of Look Good Feel Better. It’s a tribute to the program’s ability to provide support beyond practical tips and tools. It illustrates the profound and transformative impact of Look Good Feel Better and our community of generous donors and volunteers who make our programs possible.
Since 1992, thousands of people have offered their time and skills to LGFB. We couldn’t make our programs a reality without the big hearts and talents of our volunteer team from coast to coast who deliver our curriculum with empathy and equity, helping to empower and educate those facing cancer.
Each year, we celebrate our dedicated volunteers, honouring those with years of service. Thank you for positively impacting the lives of those facing cancer.
Our volunteers provided more than 3,733 hours of service, delivering online and in-person workshops.
Our patients always feel welcome and special at the end of the workshop. The Look Good Feel Better team is wonderful. Liz, her team, and the program have been a huge asset to our hospital.”
Brenda has a truly welcoming energy. She is open and warm, smiles at everyone, and instantly creates a sense of comfort; you can relax when you are with her because she radiates knowledge, skill, and understanding.”
Barb shares her heart of genuine sensitivity and compassion towards each participant. I left the session feel treasured, beautiful and empowered!”
Dolores Adams
Darlene Bell
Doreen Harvey
Joie McCullough
Monica McDonnell
Pamela Mitchell
Karin Thompson
Barb Wengreniuk
Liz Wodham
Filled with skincare and cosmetics from Canada’s top beauty brands, this iconic purple bag is what helps people facing cancer learn the techniques and tips taught in the workshops. Thanks to the kit, when they look in the mirror, they see beyond being a cancer patient - they see themselves again. It helps them feel more confident as they face
the side effects of cancer treatment – more confident to see friends and to be with family. The Confidence Kits would not be possible without the generous product donations from the Canadian beauty industry. Our Category Champions donate the full 9,000 units each year. Many other companies donate a few thousand units depending on their inventory availability. LGFB packs kits twice per year in three different shades to ensure every workshop participant is able to feel their best.
The kit came at the perfect time because I’d had a bad day. I was totally shocked by the number of products so kindly gifted to me. Getting this bag turned my sad tears into happy tears!”
- Sara S., LGFB Workshop ParticipantLa Roche-Posay MAC Estée Lauder Clinique Mary Kay Cosmetics Vichy
$4,900 raised
In April, a community of friends and family came together for ‘Just for Styles’, a special event held in memory of Ashlie Styles and in support of Look Good Feel Better. Guests delighted in hors d’oeuvres, spa activations and good company while enjoying the ambience of the stunning Hammam Spa at Bayview Village.
$4,837 raised
A national partnership between Cushman & Wakefield and Charly Goss Style Inc. created the exclusive Trend Report covering Fashion, Beauty & Wellness. During the month of October, while finding the latest Canadian fashion trends in the Report, you could also donate to LGFB at properties across the country!
Events in the community help raise funds and awareness for our programs – ensuring even more people receive the support they need when facing cancer. When a group rallies together, it creates connection and community that warms our hearts.
$10,000 raised
Since 2018, the Wellington chapter of 100 Women Who Care have chosen a charity to support, and in June of 2023, LGFB was the fortunate recipient of their collective generous philanthropy. Helen Edwards, of 100 Women, said, “It’s amazing what a group of women can do when they get together.” We couldn’t agree more!
$660 raised
Another example of women coming together to do fabulous things, is the class hosted by The Surrey Pilates Studio in October with funds directed towards LGFB. A woman owned and operated business, Surrey Pilates Studio is aligned with LGFB’s mission of helping others feel confident and more like themselves again. Thank you, Veronica, for your leadership in our community!
A night of brilliance and purpose, Mirror Ball 2023 embraced the theme ‘Be bold with us’.
The enchanting Cynthia Mulligan returned as the host, weaving her personal cancer journey with the charitable mission of Look Good Feel Better. More than 600 guests were deeply touched by Sera who, along with her family, graciously joined us to share her heartwarming story of familial support and resilience at a time of uncertainty. Surpassing all expectations, the event raised an impressive $1.42 million , a testament to the unwavering support from our sponsors, auction donors, and attendees who wholeheartedly contributed to the resounding success of the evening.
Check out Sera’s incredible story shared at Mirror Ball.
Reflecting on a remarkable year for Bubbles & Brunch!
Expanding beyond the successful celebrations in Toronto and Calgary, we marked a significant milestone by hosting our inaugural event in Montreal. Beyond the effervescent bubbles, delightful brunch, and lively ambiance, these gatherings serve the deeper purpose of supporting Look Good Feel Better. Thanks to the generosity of our guests and sponsors, $75,000 was raised in Montreal and a total of $272,000 at all of our 2023 events. Since 2017, Bubbles & Brunch has championed over $632,000 for Look Good Feel Better, making a substantial impact on the lives of those facing cancer.
This year’s Shoppers Drug Mart TM Holiday Beauty Mingle was awe-inspiring and soared to new heights, raising an astounding $962,384 in support of Look Good Feel Better and women facing cancer.
Central to this success is the unwavering commitment and enthusiasm displayed by every Shoppers Drug Mart TM store involved. Each store, through engaging activations and personalized beauty experiences, became a unique immersive space of care and compassion for women and teens facing cancer. The Beauty Mingle is a true community celebration, weaving together generosity, impact, and empowerment.
The digital presence resonated with this collective voice. The multitude of posts and stories showcased the vibrancy of Beauty Mingle and extended its reach far and wide. Hearts were touched, actions were inspired, and the impact of Look Good Feel Better’s mission was greatly amplified.
Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health TM and Shoppers Drug Mart’s dedication to Look Good Feel Better has a life-changing impact on so many people. As our longstanding partner, this support empowers us to make a difference in the lives of women and teens facing cancer. Thank you to Shoppers Drug Mart TM for helping ensure that Canadians do not face their cancer diagnosis alone.
Your generous support has been the driving force behind Look Good Feel Better’s ability to broaden our services, revitalize our re-opened sites, and help people facing cancer feel like themselves again. In our journey of growth, we are immensely thankful for our community –our family - standing by us and investing in our shared vision.
LGFB is grateful to recognize our donors and partners who have supported us with a sponsorship or gift of $25,000 or more in 2023:
Anita Canada Ltd.
Array Marketing
Benefit Cosmetics LLC
CIBC
Clarins
Cosnova Beauty
Coty Inc.
Estate of Francoyse
Saint-Mars
Estée Lauder Companies
FDJ
Group Marcelle
HBC
Holt Renfrew
iA Financial Group
La Vie en Rose
L’Oréal Canada
Mary Kay Cosmetics
Ltd. - Mary Kay Ash
Charitable Foundation
PUIG
Sephora Canada
Shiseido Inc.
Shoppers Drug MartTM
- Shoppers Foundation for Women’s HealthTM
TOPBOX
FDJ gives back to their community through their on-going Fashion that Fits campaign in support of LGFB. In 2023, they expanded their support with a new collaboration resulting in the poignant “Fashion that Gives Back” t-shirt campaign.
The campaign features powerful stories from LGFB participants, emphasizing their unique perspectives on navigating the complexities of cancer diagnosis and treatment. The limited-edition t-shirts, designed by local artist Madeleine Marx, became a symbol of support and solidarity. The funds raised played a vital role in sustaining our programs in local communities.
We would like to extend our gratitude to FDJ – and the boutiques that carry the FDJ line - for their inspired giving and community leadership.
Thanks to the commitment and investment from our individual donors, corporate partners, community fundraising and granting agencies - 2022 was a year of strength, financially positioning LGFB to accomplish its goals and continue to evolve its programming. We are proud to be an effective organization ensuring that at the
heart of our decisions are the people we serve and being accountable to our donors. We continue to operate at an administration rate that is on par with industry standards and best practice, distributing 75% towards programs and direct impact to those facing cancer. Please see our website for our most up to date audited financial statements.
Finances by activity and expenses:
75 %
Program Delivery
22 % 3 %
Fundraising
Operations & Administration
Thank you to our 2023 Board of Directors for their commitment to Look Good Feel Better and the community we serve. Their expertise and support have successfully guided us through over 30 years of impact and programming.
Chair:
Lynda Rose , Mary Kay Cosmetics Ltd.
Vice Chairs:
Lisa Reid , Procter & Gamble
Louanne McGrory , Shiseido Americas
Sharon Avery , Toronto Foundation
Finance & Audit Committee:
Chair: Myles Robinson, Centura Brands Inc.
Vice-Chair: Barbara Foldes, formerly of CIBC
Directors:
Allan Lever, Hollywood Alliance Canada Inc.
Amanda Chew, Formerly of G Adventures
Darren Praznik, Cosmetics Alliance Canada
Doriane Dalati, Formerly of L’Oréal Canada
John Coyne, Circular 365
Julie Sutherland, Estée Lauder Companies
Marie-Evelyne François, L’Oréal Canada
