Every ribbon tells a story: Dionne-Gay Bancroft’s journey with breast cancer

DIONNE-GAY Bancroft, a dedicated insurance advisor at Scotiabank, had always been proactive about her health. Routine executive check-ups were part of her life, a way to stay informed about her well-being. However, in 2020, amid the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic, she received news that no amount of preparation could soften.

During her annual medical examinations, Bancroft’s gynaecologist performed routine checks and recommended a mammogram and pelvic ultrasound. The pelvic ultrasound came back normal, but her doctor hesitated to share the mammogram results. He mentioned a mark that concerned him. True to her nature of wanting full transparency, Bancroft immediately sought more information. Her doctor sought a second opinion from a colleague, who confirmed the need for further investigation.

The next day, she received a call with unsettling news. The doctors recommended redoing the tests at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UWI) for a more detailed analysis using advanced imaging equipment. Despite the repeat tests showing no abnormalities, determined to get to the bottom of the matter, one of Bancroft’s doctors performed an ultrasound. That’s when they found it — a small, suspicious mass in her breast.

A biopsy soon confirmed the diagnosis: breast cancer.

When the news was delivered, Bancroft’s first instinct wasn’t fear — it was resolve. “What are we going to do about this?” she asked, ready to fight. A treatment plan was quickly assembled, and Dr Patrick Roberts and his expert team were selected to perform her surgery.

Throughout her journey, Bancroft leaned on advice from her doctors: “This will play out in your head. You must stay positive and surround yourself with positive people”. With those words in mind, she fortified herself with the unwavering support of her family, close friends, and her priest. Their love and encouragement carried her through the most difficult days.

After surgery came the gruelling rounds of chemotherapy, followed by radiation treatment. Like many, Bancroft was apprehensive about the side effects of chemotherapy and even considered delaying the treatment until after the Christmas holidays. But Dr Roberts was direct: “Do your treatment now, and you can enjoy the rest of your life”.

She bravely endured four rounds of chemotherapy, spaced three weeks apart. The experience was tough, made more challenging by her long-standing fear of needles. Yet, with the help of her general practitioner, Dr Sheryl Logan, who administered the necessary injections even during the holiday season, Bancroft faced her fears head-on and conquered them.

Throughout this ordeal, she found immense gratitude for her employer, Scotiabank. The company’s robust health plan covered her extensive treatments, and her critical illness policies, including ScotiaCritiCare, provided financial relief during one of the most difficult periods of her life.

“Cancer treatment is expensive, but having the right insurance, especially ScotiaCritiCare, allowed me to focus on my recovery without the constant stress of mounting medical bills,” she shared.

Bancroft’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of preparation, even in the face of the unexpected. Despite having no family history of cancer, her foresight in securing critical illness coverage gave her peace of mind when it mattered most.

The emotional toll of her battle was significant, with some days feeling heavier than others. But in those moments, Bancroft made space for herself — to walk, listen to music, or simply cry when needed. And while she occasionally asked, “Why me?” a close friend’s words shifted her mindset: “Why not you?”

Now Bancroft embraces each day with renewed purpose. She no longer sweats the small stuff, often asking herself, “Will this matter in five years?” Her focus is on her health, her loved ones, and living a life of intention. She believes her journey has a greater purpose, perhaps to help others facing similar challenges find strength and hope.

“I am living proof of what I’ve always advocated to my Scotiabank clients: With the right support, you can survive anything,” she said.