Para hockey player Raphaëlle Tousignant, the first woman to represent Canada in a major international event, has revealed that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. In an Instagram post on Tuesday, she expressed her surprise at the diagnosis and her determination to face this new challenge head-on. Tousignant, who had her leg amputated at the age of 10 due to bone cancer, has been a prominent figure in Canadian women’s Para hockey since she joined the team at 14. She made history in 2023 by becoming the first woman to be selected for Canada’s national team in a world championship.

At 23 years old, Tousignant had her sights set on becoming the first female Para hockey player to compete for Canada at the 2026 Paralympic Games in Milan-Cortina, Italy. Despite the technically mixed-gender nature of Para hockey at the Paralympics, very few women have participated in the Games, with only three women having played so far. Tousignant was determined to make her mark on the sport and was working towards achieving her Paralympic dream.

In light of her recent diagnosis, Tousignant remains resolute in her pursuit of her Paralympic aspirations. She emphasized that every workout and training session now holds a deeper significance for her as she continues to push towards her goals. Reflecting on her journey so far, Tousignant sees her battle with cancer as another chapter in her story, not the conclusion. Surrounded by love and support, she is taking each day as it comes, fueled by her unwavering determination and resilience.

Tousignant’s journey in Para hockey has been marked by challenges and triumphs, including helping Canada secure a silver medal at the inaugural world women’s Para hockey championships in Slovakia. While acknowledging the uncertainty ahead, she remains steadfast in her resolve to pursue her dreams until the very end.