2025 Community Impact Report
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.
A Message From Our Leadership
At the heart of Look Good Feel Better is the people we serve, and everything we achieved in 2025 was made possible because of our supporters.
Over the past year, we focused on building impact, growing our capacity, and strengthening the sense of community that defines our organization.
With the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of donors and partners, we expanded our programming to include new topics such as Nail Care and Cancer Fatigue, while advancing plans for on-demand learning that removes barriers and meets people wherever they are in their cancer journey In September, we relaunched our website - lgfb ca - with features specifically designed to aid users dealing with brain fog and other side effects of cancer treatment.
Our volunteers continue to be the backbone of Look Good Feel Better Their compassion and expertise help our participants feel informed, more confident, and seen. Together, these efforts led to a 38% increase in the number of people we reached. While that growth reflects our progress, it also reminds us of the ever-present
need for psychosocial cancer care across Canada. Each number represents a person— someone’s family member, friend, neighbour, or colleague—seeking support during one of the most challenging times of their life.
We are proud that this work is happening here in Canada, grounded in shared values of empathy, equity, and community. As we look ahead, we remain deeply committed to ensuring that every person in Canada facing cancer has access not only to medical treatment, but to the emotional, social, and psychological supports that help people heal and recapture a sense of wellbeing.
With full and grateful hearts, thank you.
Susan Larkin President & CEO
Louanne McGrory Board Chair
Why Psychosocial Supports Are Essential to Cancer Care
Psychosocial support is a vital part of cancer care – addressing the emotional, physical, and social effects that often come with a diagnosis.
Research consistently shows that low-intensity supports—such as group workshops, peer connection, and practical education—can meaningfully reduce anxiety and depression in the everyday for cancer patients, especially when they are integrated into broader care plans 1
This is why cancer care teams across Canada frequently recommend Look Good Feel Better. These programs meet people where they are, offering timely support that complements medical treatment without feeling overwhelming or clinical.
Emotional distress during cancer is common, even when it appears mild. Without support, those early feelings of anxiety or low mood can intensify over time, affecting quality of life
1 NIH, 2023
2 Carlson et al., 2010
3 Barez et al., 2008
and overall wellbeing2. Look Good Feel Better workshops offer a proactive response—combining practical guidance with emotional reassurance to help people manage these feelings before they escalate.
Just as importantly, Look Good Feel Better helps people regain a sense of control at a moment when so much can feel out of their hands. Feeling informed, capable, and connected has been shown to protect against emotional decline during long-term illness, regardless of physical health outcomes 3
Because these workshops are approachable and non-stigmatizing, they also reach people who may be reluctant to seek formal mental health care, reducing barriers to support while easing pressure on the healthcare system.
4 Essue BM, et al. The psychosocial cost burden of cancer: A systematic literature review. Psycho-Oncol 2020;29(11): 1746-60
Look
Good Feel Better plays a crucial role in holistic cancer care— supporting resilience, dignity, and emotional wellbeing at every stage of the journey.
91%
of workshop attendees report feeling more confident after attending one of our workshops.
Meet Beverley
Beverley’s cancer journey spans decades, marked by extraordinary resilience and moments of unexpected light. At two of the most challenging times in her life, Look Good Feel Better was there to provide moments of connection, confidence, and hope.
There are moments during cancer treatment that feel impossibly heavy - days when strength runs low and joy feels far away. And then, sometimes, there are moments of light. For Beverley, one of those moments arrived in the middle of chemotherapy, when she attended a Look Good Feel Better workshop after being diagnosed with breast cancer. She still remembers it as her “best day at the cancer centre”—a rare experience that stood in contrast to the fear and uncertainty that so often defined her treatment days.
“Most of my time at the cancer centre wasn’t cheerful or enjoyable,” Beverley recalls, “but my experience with Look Good Feel Better
was completely different—just lovely. The volunteers were so kind and helpful, and it was great fun.” That single day left a lasting impression—one that stayed with her for more than two decades.
Twenty years later, Beverley faced the unthinkable once again. She was diagnosed with a complex case involving three distinct cancers. Amid the shock and emotional weight of a new diagnosis, one of the first things she did was reconnect with Look Good Feel Better—the same organization that had helped lift her spirits all those years ago.
Beverley’s journey is a powerful reminder of the long-lasting impact of psychosocial cancer care. Programs like Look Good Feel Better don’t just support people in a single moment—they stay with them, offering strength, confidence, and hope when it’s needed most.
LGFB was so helpful in terms of my spirit – just enhancing my mood and joy. (The workshop) is more beneficial than therapy or a self-help group for me. LGFB cultivates such a supportive, uplifting environment. It was a very restorative afternoon – such a gift, truly.”
The Feel Better Series: Nail Care
At Look Good Feel Better, we know how important it is to be able to access expert advice in a timely manner, when treatment side effects may be at their worst.
These moments can occur throughout a person’s cancer experience. That’s why we continue to develop specialty workshops that offer support before, during, and after treatment.
In 2025, LGFB introduced Nail Care, a workshop specifically addressing the adverse side effects on nails during and after treatment. President and CEO Susan Larkin speaks to the importance of this topic.
Why Nail Care?
Chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments can be particularly tough on people’s nails. It’s often something they don’t expect and catches them off guard. Symptoms can include painful lifting from the nail bed, ridges and grooves, dark/light spots, excessive thinning, and redness, swelling, and peeling After hearing so many questions about nails from our workshop attendees, we collaborated with one of Canada’s leading Onco-Dermatologists, Dr Cynthia Fournier This workshop ensures our community can have the latest supportive information to help reduce and relieve the side effects they are experiencing.
This workshop was delivered beautifully. I liked how participants’ questions were answered, and things were explained at length.”
Who should attend this workshop?
Adverse nail effects can be experienced during or after cancer treatment. This workshop was designed to address these concerns wherever patients are in their care continuum. There are even tips for those about to start treatment. Many oncology nurses joined the session as well –they are so wonderful at finding resources to help their patients.
These sessions were so very helpful to understand the kinds of issues I might face during and after treatment and effective ways to manage them.”
Why is Nail Care led by an Onco-Dermatologist?
When cancer treatment impacts nails, skin, and hair, that practice is called onco-dermatology. There are only a handful of these specialists in Canada. Many patients may not have access to a local specialist, or they may need to wait for an appointment. We feel it is critical to offer broad-based expert information to help fill that gap
If a patient is experiencing adverse nail effects, we want to ensure that they can attend a workshop when it is convenient for them and from the comfort of their home - in English or French.
What’s the response been like?
We knew there was a need for this information, but we didn’t quite anticipate how great the demand would be. More than 850 people from across Canada registered for our first workshop. We’ll continue to deliver this workshop in 2026 and beyond so that newly diagnosed patients will continue to have access to this critical information.
Our Expert
We are honoured to have Dr. Cynthia Fournier as the expert presenter of our Nail Care workshops in English and French. Dr. Fournier is a boardcertified dermatologist, practicing at HotelDieu-de Levis in Quebec. She completed her medical school and dermatology residency at Laval University and her Fellowship in oncodermatology at Princess Margaret Hospital. She has expertise in the management of skin cancer and dermatological toxicities of cancer treatments such as immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.
Workshop Highlights
Designed for all people facing cancer across Canada, our core workshops and our Feel Better Series provide access to expert advice in-person at select locations and anywhere across our country online. Here’s a recap of some of our most requested topics.
Advanced Skincare
Cancer treatments have evolved over the years. New forms of chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments have caused different and adverse side effects to emerge –including skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, acne, or severely dry or painful skin. We know that patients can’t always access specialists quickly, so we’ve worked with some of Canada’s leading onco-dermatologists for the latest supportive information to help reduce and relieve the side effects they are experiencing.
In-Person Shaving & Men's Skincare
Our popular online workshop is now offered in-person at select locations across Canada. It ensures that men can feel more confident in managing the side effects of their treatment. Topics include caring for the skin, shaving hygiene during treatment, side effects such as skin issues and the loss of eyelashes and facial hair, and the most gentle and effective types of skincare products to use.
Amplifying Our Community
LGFB continues to work with like-minded partners and subject matter experts on workshop topics that provide critical knowledge and needed supports to our community. Last year, these included:
Talking to Kids About Cancer
Many parents say one of the most stressful aspects of a loved one’s cancer diagnosis is discussing it with children. Our workshop helps navigate these conversations. Children's questions can differ depending on age; we offer strategies for responding effectively no matter how old they are. (Partnership with Nankind)
Cancer-Related Fatigue
Cancer-related fatigue is one of the most common and overwhelming side effects of treatment. We highlight practical strategies and the latest best practices to identify it and how it differs from everyday tiredness, manage fatigue, and rebuild energy. (Partnership with Cancer Fatigue Servies)
Cancer and Work
Continuing to work during treatment or transitioning back to work after treatment are both key sources of patient anxiety. This LGFB workshop discusses the impacts of cancer on work and how to manage it, strategies for managing job demands, and building support networks and personalized return-to-work plans. (Partnership with Cancer and Work)
The Shaving & Men's Skincare Kit
The kit that accompanies our Shaving & Men's Skincare workshop has been reformulated and packaged in a smart grey bag. Experts recommend a simple skincare routine during treatment: Gentle cleanser. Good moisturizer. Great sunscreen. The skincare, suncare, and shaving products included in the kit help workshop participants put that advice into practice to reduce and relieve treatment side effects. We’re so pleased to offer these updated kits in our online and in-person men’s workshops.
Meet Nia and Melissa
Nia Donaldson, Ontario
Why did you choose to become a LGFB volunteer?
Being a LGFB volunteer has allowed me to feel like I’m making a difference in a life outside my own; that I am making a meaningful contribution within society. It has also given me something to look forward to each month. It can be so easy to get wrapped up in the mundane tasks of life, going to work and school. But being a volunteer reminds me that there is more to living than just going to work everyday.
It’s impacted my work-life too. I have had cancer patients come to me as clients. Being a volunteer has allowed me to better relate to my clients and to offer them advice (what to use for ultra dry skin, for example) that is backed by professionals. I’ve learned that information in my volunteer training; it has allowed me to become a resource and I love that!
Please tell us about a meaningful workshop moment.
There is always a point in a workshop where a participant steps out of her comfort zone and tries a new technique or product. She’ll look in the mirror and say “Wow. I actually kind of like this.” These moments are always so special to me because that person is finding new ways to regain their confidence. It’s just heartwarming.
Melissa Lebrun Pineault, Quebec
Tell us about your family’s legacy of volunteering with LGFB.
My mother was a LGFB volunteer for a long time, and I once attended a workshop with her The experience stuck with me. I used to be a trained cosmetician and makeup artist, so it really resonates with me. Now, I work in banking, and we’re encouraged to get involved in causes. I wanted to get involved in a cause that spoke to me. For me, giving back to women is really important. I also thought it was
beautiful to offer my time to people who feel vulnerable. What makes LGFB workshops special?
I think it’s so fantastic that the women leave with all these products, this beautiful gift (the kit) AND they’ve had a wonderful time and formed bonds with one another. There’s a really beautiful collaboration among workshop attendees.
They’re not all at the same stage of their illness. Some are in remission, some are at the beginning of their treatment, and some are about to undergo surgery. They help and support each other. They’ll ask one another “Do you need someone to pick you up after your treatments?”. It’s beautiful to see that. In those moments, they find the time to help each other, despite the fact that they themselves are sick.
In 2025, our volunteers provided more than 7,291 hours of service, delivering and supporting our workshops.
Volunteers celebrating 30-year milestone:
Chris Piuni
Colombe Lessard
Dale Dumanski
Donna McLean
Lynn Hubley
Marie-Josée Cloutier
Nadine Wakelin
Impact & Achievements in 2025
776 online and in-person workshops were held
8,525 participants attended our online or in-person workshops
38% increase over 2024
96 % of participants would recommend our workshop to another person facing cancer
In 2025, LGFB workshops and resources were accessed
124,748 times
Launched our first ever Nail Care Workshop
Produced four Feel Better Series topics with partners: Cancer-Related Fatigue
2
1 Cancer and Work
3 Talking to Kids About Cancer
4 Areola Tattooing
91 % of our participants reported feeling somewhat or very confident about their appearance AFTER our workshop, compared to 32% reporting feeling somewhat confident before attending
lgfb.ca Relaunch
In September 2025, we relaunched our website with a renewed focus on the people who rely on it most.
Guided by human-centered design principles, the site was intentionally built to support individuals managing the side effects of cancer and its treatment, including brain fog, cancer-related fatigue, and information overload. Every element was designed to be intuitive, calming, and easy to use, reducing barriers at moments when energy, focus, and emotional capacity may be limited.
A single, integrated calendar combines in-person and online workshops, making it easier for participants to find and register for programs that fit their needs.
Alongside these enhancements, we significantly expanded our online resources and topicspecific FAQs. These improvements have led to a 600% increase in returning website users, demonstrating that people are not only finding what they need, but coming back for continued support throughout various stages of their treatment and beyond.
An interactive homepage navigation feature now helps users quickly identify the most relevant resources and workshops based on where they are in their treatment journey and the type of support or information they're seeking.
Beyond the Workshops
9,000
More than print copies of the Look Good Feel Better Magazine were distributed in 2025. The digital magazine had reads online . 10,500
View Online Read Online Here
LListenOnline isten Online Here
6,645 episodes of our podcast were downloaded last year.
The Skincare & Makeup Kit
Studies have found that up to 70% of cancer patients face ongoing and unmet psychosocial needs during diagnosis and treatment 1 . Look Good Feel Better is proud to provide physical, social, and emotional supports –including the LGFB confidence kit.
Thank You to Our Category Champions
Clinique
Estée Lauder
La Roche-Posay
MAC
Mary Kay Canada
NARS
Vichy
This iconic purple bag is filled with skincare and cosmetics from Canada’s top beauty brands and helps people facing cancer practice the techniques and tips taught in our Skincare & Makeup workshops. Participants learn to address some of the physical side effects of cancer treatment while also boosting confidence and fostering social connections.
We are proud to have Category Champions who donate and cover the entirety of a single category (i.e. lipstick, eyebrow pencils) in our workshop kits. Category Champions, along with our other general product donors, make it possible for workshop participants to feel more in control of appearance-related side effects. Twice a year, LGFB packs three distinct kits with a diverse range of shades to ensure every workshop participant can feel their best.
Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Psychosocial Services to Cancer Patients/Families in a Community Setting; Adler NE, Page AEK, editors. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2008
Community Connections
A Night in New Orleans
Amount Raised: $9,275
30 students from Dunbarton High School in Pickering, ON expressed a desire to give back to their community. After doing their research, they voted and selected Look Good Feel Better as their charity of choice. Teacher Jennifer Calberg created a community giving program that combines both volunteerism and fundraising. Students helped LGFB set up our Bubbles & Brunch event in May. In June, these talented student musicians performed jazz selections at their final concert of the year. More than 300 parents and teachers attended and helped raise funds through ticket sales, a draw, and a silent auction.
BeAppeeling
Amount Raised: $1,000
After multiple breast cancer diagnoses, Andrea Galley founded Appeeling (beappeeling.com), a company that celebrates body positivity, confidence, and empowerment through hand-crafted pasties and nipple covers. Proceeds from the CONFIDENCE Breast Cancer body jewelry are donated to Look Good Feel Better each year. We are proud to be a part of these fashionable accessories that help their wearers feel confident and fabulous.
Teresa Forbes Foundation
Amount raised: $5,000
Teresa Forbes’ three adult children established a memorial fund in her honour to acknowledge the profound impact Teresa had on their lives –and her community. We were truly honoured to be the inaugural recipient of this loving tribute. With this gift, the family is helping ensure that people facing cancer receive compassionate psychosocial support during treatment, preserving dignity, confidence, and a sense of self. Thank you to the Forbes family for including LGFB in remembering Teresa.
Cosmetics Alliance Canada Community Spirit Awards
At the 2025 Cosmetics Alliance Canada (CAC) Beauty’s Best Awards, we were thrilled to bestow the Community Spirit Award to Laurie Reed.
This award is given to an individual from the cosmetics and personal care products industry whose volunteerism and/or philanthropy has a tremendous impact in their local communities and beyond.
Laurie turned a single act of kindness toward a person who was being mistreated in a shop into a mission-driven annual event that serves hundreds of women in her community. Her “Love Yourself” celebration offers Indigenous women of Thunder Bay a safe, supportive space where they can feel seen, empowered, and uplifted.
Please join us in celebrating Laurie’s achievements and keep an eye out for her in LGFB workshops in Northern Ontario. She has recently become a Look Good Feel Better volunteer.
Laurie Reed with Susan Larkin
Led by Co-Chairs Aseel Suleiman and Suzy Brown, Mirror Ball 2025 was an evening defined by inspiration, generosity, and momentum, bringing together our community in support of Look Good Feel Better’s mission to help Canadians face cancer with confidence. Sportscaster Kate Beirness’ warmth, humour, and energy made every guest feel welcome, while auctioneer Fred Lee electrified the room and helped propel the event to its most successful fundraising total ever.
Gathering Friends for a Wonderful Cause
Bubbles & Brunch and Bulles & Brunch events celebrated connection and community in Toronto and Montreal. These gatherings had a deeply meaningful purpose - supporting Look Good Feel Better Thanks to the generosity of our guests and sponsors, and the dedication of our volunteer committees, the 2025 events contributed to a total of over $307,000 to LGFB programming.
Check Out Julia’s Story
Guests were deeply moved by Ambassador Julia Mertick, who’s story of being diagnosed with cancer while pregnant, welcoming her baby, and ultimately going into remission captured the resilience and hope at the heart of LGFB’s work. Mirror Ball 2025 was an unforgettable evening, reflecting the dedication of our sponsors, committee members, and supporters who made this record-breaking evening possible — raising an extraordinary $1.56 million
Brunch for a Cause
In September, we debuted a new event in CalgaryBrunch for a Cause. It brought together guests for a meaningful morning of connection, conversation, and support. Over a delicious brunch, attendees engaged in a thoughtful and compassionate discussion on grief and illness with panelists sharing their professional insights and lived experiences. The conversation offered guidance and reassurance to those personally navigating illness, as well as to family members, caregivers, friends, and healthcare professionals supporting loved ones, underscoring the importance of community and psychosocial care during life’s most challenging moments.
Quotes of Appreciation
The volunteers were so kind and caring. I got all of the answers to my skin problems."
- Robert W., Workshop Participant
Joanne, I always feel your deep patience and care and your calm, quiet strength. The way you lead workshops creates a space where we all feel welcomed, soothed, and inspired. Congratulations on your 25 years (with LGFB).”
-Sandra C., Fellow Volunteer
Some days or nights are really hard. Sometimes you’ll want to quit. Hold on tight. You are loved”
- Cheryl M. Bulles & Brunch Attendee
I love this workshop. It made me feel like a person again.
- Tanya R., Workshop Participant
The workshop was run by several wonderful, kind, funny, and engaging women. They made all of us feel welcome and valued, and it was a really fun time spent with great ladies.”
- Sonya K. Workshop Participant
Now I feel very confident and I feel that I can do something to care for myself post chemo”
- Kathryn A., Workshop Participant
Magdalena has a smile that brightens any room. She is completely dedicated to LGFB— always arriving early to help with setup and greets participants with warm, sincere words. As a cancer survivor, she brings a deep understanding of what our participants are going through and offers practical guidance on wig care and hair alternatives.”
-Margaret
W., Host Site Coordinator
I have mentioned this (workshop) to everyone I know. So grateful for the support while going through chemo and this diagnosis”
- Harsha P., Workshop Participant
Magdalena B. 25 Year Volunteer, Toronto, ON
Joanne T., 25 Year Volunteer, Chicoutimi, QC
Beauty Mingle: The Magic of Community and Leadership
This year’s Shoppers Drug Mart Holiday Beauty Mingle once again demonstrated the power of a national initiative driven by local generosity. Beauty Advisors and their customers across the country came together to raise more than an extraordinary $1.575 million in support of Look Good Feel Better’s psychosocial programs for women and teens facing cancer. Every conversation at the beauty counter and every contribution made a difference, helping ensure that support is accessible to people in communities large and small.
What makes the Beauty Mingle so meaningful is its strong local presence. Funds are raised in neighbourhood stores that directly support the health and wellbeing of friends, family members, and neighbours. Shoppers Drug Mart’s commitment to women’s health, through the
Shoppers Foundation for Women’s HealthTM, helps remove barriers to care and ensures that women have access to trusted guidance and psychosocial support, no matter where they live in Canada.
From heartfelt in-store moments to shared stories online, the Beauty Mingle sparked connection and pride across the country. We are deeply grateful to the Beauty Advisors, customers, and the Shoppers Drug Mart team whose generosity continues to strengthen our mission and expand access to care for thousands of women and teens affected by cancer.
Possibility Makers
A heartfelt thank you to all our donors, partners, and fundraisers. Your generous support has been the driving force behind Look Good Feel Better’s ability to broaden our services, expand programming to increase access for all people living in Canada, and help people facing cancer feel like themselves again. We are immensely thankful for our community that stands beside us and contributes to 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 2025:
Anita Canada Ltd.
Array Marketing
Beiersdorf
Benefit Cosmetics
LLC
CIBC
Clarins
Cosmetic Alliance Canada
Coty Inc.
Estée Lauder Companies
FDJ
Give Back Beauty
Group Marcelle
Holt Renfrew
iA Financial Group
La Roche Posay
La Vie en Rose
L’Oréal Canada
Mary Kay Cosmetics Ltd. - Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation
PUIG
Sephora Canada
Shiseido Inc.
Shoppers Drug MartShoppers Foundation for Women's Health TM
SST Cosmetics
Wella
Mary Kay: A Comprehensive Commitment to Confidence
Mary Kay has been a steadfast champion of Look Good Feel Better for decades, standing alongside us as a leader in both generosity and commitment. As a category champion, Mary Kay’s ongoing product donations help us assemble more than 9,500 LGFB kits each year, ensuring participants in our workshops have access to high-quality products that support confidence and self-care during treatment.
Beyond product support, Mary Kay continues to invest meaningfully in our mission through direct financial contributions, including funds from their MK5K and a generous matching gift for our holiday campaign—doubling the impact of donor generosity at a critical time of year. Their support also extends behind the scenes by providing shipping for all online workshop participant kits, helping us reach people in communities across the country.
The Mary Kay community’s involvement runs deep. MK sales associates have always been a backbone of our volunteer corps and that tradition continues. We are deeply grateful to Mary Kay for their long-standing partnership and for the many ways they continue to strengthen and sustain our work.
Financials
The 2024 LGFB fiscal year was financially stable. Our thanks to the commitment of our individual donors, corporate partners, community fundraisers, and granting agencies whose generosity allowed us to continue and evolve our programming. We are proud to be an effective organization, keeping those we serve at the heart of our decisions and being accountable to donors. We are also proud to operate at an administration rate on par with industry standards, distributing more than 73 percent of funds to areas directly impacting people with cancer and their families. Please see our website for our most upto-date audited financial statement.
Finances by activity and expenses:
Our Leadership
Thank you to our 2025 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:
Louanne McGrory, Formerly of Shiseido Americas
Vice Chairs:
Sharon Avery, Toronto Foundation
Caroline Morin, Clarins Canada Inc.
Lisa Reid, Procter & Gamble
Finance & Audit Committee:
Chair: Barbara Foldes, Formerly of CIBC
Directors:
Amanda Chew, Formerly of G Adventures
Darren Praznik, Cosmetics Alliance Canada
Dr. Deanne Simms, ThriveSpace Health & Wellness
Doriane Dalati, Formerly of L’Oréal Canada
Julie Sutherland, Estée Lauder Companies Canada
Marie-Evelyne François, Formerly of L’Oréal Canada
Michelle Haurilak
