Para hockey player Raphaëlle Tousignant, the first woman to represent Canada in a major international competition, revealed that she has received a breast cancer diagnosis. Sharing the news on Instagram, she expressed her surprise and resolve, stating that life has its unexpected turns. Recalling her previous challenges both on and off the ice, Tousignant emphasized her resilience and determination to face this new battle.
Having undergone a leg amputation at the age of 10 due to bone cancer, Tousignant, a forward from Terrebonne, Quebec, joined the Canadian women’s Para hockey team at a young age and quickly established herself as a key player. In 2023, she made history as the first woman to be selected for Canada’s national team at a world championship.
At 23 years old, Tousignant had her sights set on becoming the first female Para hockey athlete to compete for Canada in the upcoming 2026 Paralympic Games in Milan-Cortina, Italy. While Para hockey in the Paralympics is open to mixed-gender teams, only a few women, including Tousignant, have participated in the Games, despite the option for teams to expand rosters to include female players.
Despite the setback of her recent diagnosis, Tousignant remains steadfast in her pursuit of her Paralympic dream. She acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed her commitment to continue striving towards her goal. Reframing her focus on each training session and ice time, Tousignant affirmed her dedication to pushing herself until the very last moment to achieve her aspirations.
Furthermore, Tousignant contributed to Canada’s silver medal win at the inaugural world women’s Para hockey championships in Dolný Kubín, Slovakia, in August. Viewing her current situation as another chapter in her life story rather than the conclusion, she emphasized her determination to face each day with the support of her loved ones and an unyielding spirit.