🎀 October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month — BRA Day 2026 · October 14 · VGH
Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day
closing the loop on breast cancer
DATE
October 14, 2026
2026
TIME
5:30 PM – 8 PM
VENUE
Paetzhold Theater
ADMISSION
Free
Updates About BRA Day
ABOUT BRA DAY
Education, awareness, and access — for everyone.
BRA Day aims to raise awareness and provide education to individuals considering or interested in breast reconstruction surgery.
The event features expert surgeon presentations, a rare opportunity to view post-operative results with live models, a live 3D areola tattoo demonstration, and the chance to engage with professionals, patients, vendors, and sponsors.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, mid-journey, years post-reconstruction, or simply here to support someone you love — you belong here. No referral required.
Help Us Spread the Word
Want to help promote BRA day 2026?
Download our official event poster and display it in your clinic, office, waiting room, or community space. By sharing the poster, you’ll help raise awareness about breast reconstruction options and encourage more people to attend this year’s event.
WHAT TO EXPECT
An evening that changes how you see your options.
Expert Surgeon Presentations
Learn directly from leading plastic surgeons as they share clear, honest, and pressure-free guidance on breast reconstruction options. This educational session aims to connect the community with valuable resources, helping you feel fully informed, empowered, and confident in your healthcare choices.
Live Models & Real Journeys
See real post-operative results in person. Volunteers who have chosen to share their stories give you an authentic perspective that no before-and-after photo can provide. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, learn about each model's unique reconstruction journey, and hear firsthand about their personal experiences.
Live 3D Areola Tattoo
Watch a live demonstration of 3D areola tattooing — one of the most transformative finishing touches in breast reconstruction.
Surgeons Q&A Booth
Get your specific questions answered one-on-one. No appointment, no wait list — just conversation with the people who can actually help.
Vendors & Community
Meet the companies and organizations supporting breast reconstruction care — from implant specialists to wellness providers and patient networks.
SCHEDULE
October 14, 2026 · Paetzhold Theater
Vancouver General Hospital (VGH)
899 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9
5:15 PM
Doors Open
Welcome, registration, and mingling.
5:30 PM
Featured Surgeons Presentation
Leading plastic surgeons present on every breast reconstruction option — clearly and without agenda.
6:30 PM
Experience & Connect
- Live 3D Areola Tattoo Demonstration
- Surgeons Q&A Booth — ask anything, one on one
- Vendors & Community Booths
- Live Models — View Real Post-Operative Results in Person
7:30 PM
Closing Remarks, Photos & Thank You
A moment to reflect, connect, and leave with clarity.
GUEST SURGEONS
The experts in the room.
Our panel of leading plastic and reconstructive surgeons are here to educate, answer your questions, and help you make the decision that’s right for you.
Dr. Esta Bovil - VCH
MD PhD FRCS FRCSC
An MD PhD, Dr Bovill was trained in London and Oxford, England prior to specialist breast surgery Fellowships in Canada. She is now Associate Clinical Professor on Faculty at the University of British Columbia. A dedicated surgical teacher, she is former Director of Undergraduate Plastic Surgery and now Medical Director of the UBC Resident Cosmetic Clinic.
Based in Vancouver, her special interests are cosmetic surgery of the breasts and body, and reconstructive surgery for breast cancer, facial and hand injuries.
Dr. Peter Davison - VCH
MD MSc FRCSC
Dr. Davison completed an Electrical Engineering degree, with distinction prior to embarking on his medical career. He completed Medical school in 3 years at the University of Calgary. During this time he found his passion for the multiple domains of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.
His fellowship and sub-specialty training includes Microsurgery, Aesthetics & Breast Surgery, and Facial Rejuvenation.
Dr. Chris Doherty - VCH
MD FRCSC MPH
Dr. Doherty earned his medical degree (MD) at the University of Calgary. Following this, he completed residency training in Plastic Surgery, a Masters of Public Health, and fellowship training in Hand & Upper Limb Extremity.
His specific research interests are in the areas of peripheral nerve surgery and efficient delivery of healthcare.
Dr. Krista Genoway - FH
MD FRCSC
Dr. David Grant - FH
MD FRCSC MPH
Dr. Adelyn Ho - VCH
MD MPH FRCSC
Dr. Kathryn Isaac - VCH
MD FRCSC MPH
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Vancouver Coastal Health & Providence Health Care.
P. Clugston Chair of Breast Reconstruction
Assistant Professor, University of British Columbia, Canada
Dr. Kathryn Isaac studied medicine and completed her Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery training at the University of Toronto. She subsequently completed a craniofacial fellowship at Boston Children Hospital and sub-specialized further in breast reconstruction at the Health Sciences Center in Winnipeg. In addition to her surgical training she completed a Master’s Degree in Public Health at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. In September 2018, Dr. Isaac moved to Vancouver and has provided her skills for VCH and PHC ever since.
Named as the Patricia Clugston Chair of breast reconstruction, to continue furthering the delivery of breast cancer care and reconstruction in BC, Dr. Isaac is pursuing clinical research across five key domains: system and process analysis, centralized care optimization, outcomes research application, patient-oriented research development, and translational research support.
Dr. Peter Lennox - VCH
MD FRCSC
Dr. Lennox was only 12 when he started thinking about becoming a doctor. After earning his medical degree at UBC, he later returned to complete his Plastic Surgery residency.
With a plastic surgery career spanning about 20 years, Dr. Lennox has spent his career dedicated to advancing the field of plastic surgery and was the head of University of British Columbia’s Division of Plastic Surgery, where he also serves as a clinical professor.
Dr. Sheina Macadam - VCH
MD FRCSC MSc
In 2008, Dr Macadam founded her practice in central Vancouver, BC. She is active in both clinical and research-oriented work, and involved in training UBC plastic surgery residents and medical fellows. Clinically, she spends most of her time performing breast reconstruction surgery and consultations, and some performing cosmetic surgery and trauma surgery.
What ultimately drove her towards medicine was an interest in connecting with people, making a difference in their lives and often, developing a long term relationship with them.
Dr. Becky Nelson - FH
BSc MSc MD FRCSC
Dr. Marie Noland - FH
MD MEd FRCSC
Dr. Jenna-Lynn Senger - VCH
MD PhD FRCSC
Dr. Senger completed her Residency in Edmonton at U of A before completing her Microsurgery fellowship at Ohio State University.
Her specialties are focused on Microsurgical Reconstruction, Breast and Extremity Reconstruction, and Neuropathic Pain
Dr. Nancy Van Laeken - VCH
MD FRCSC
Dr. Van Laeken specializes in breast reconstruction surgery after mastectomy and reconstructive microsurgery, specifically facial nerve reconstruction following trauma, tumor removal and congenital deformities.
Dr. Van Laeken is a volunteer with IPRAS’ Women for Women charity programme. She has travelled abroad to India, Bangladesh and Africa with other female plastic surgeons to help women suffering from disfiguring or socially excluding injuries and trauma to continue on to lead happy and prosperous lives despite their injuries and trauma they have suffered in the past.
Meet the VCH Breast Reconstruction Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
Selena Banser - CNS
Selena Banser, is the Clinical Nurse Specialist for the Breast Reconstruction Program. She brings extensive nursing experience in pediatric oncology, bone marrow transplantation, community nursing, and clinical informatics. In her CNS role, Selena combines advanced clinical practice with leadership, education, research, and quality improvement to support patients and advance the breast reconstruction program. She is passionate about collaborating with patients and the interdisciplinary team to enhance care and drive ongoing program development.
What is a CNS?
A clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is an advanced practice nurse. They are registered nurses who have a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing and extensive nursing knowledge, skills, and clinical experience in a specialty area. The CNS’s practice is dynamic and can evolve to meet patient needs.
How can we help?
- Provide breast reconstruction specific education
- Improve patient navigation in a complex health care system
- Program development to ensure the best caare delivery for our patients
When can you contact us?
- Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM for non-urgent questions about your care.
- Contact Information Email: breastreconprogram@vch.ca
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Moments from past BRA Day events.
Photos from BRA Day 2025 · UBC Life Sciences Institute
GOOD TO KNOW
Frequently asked questions.
Who is BRA Day for?
Anyone considering, undergoing, or recovering from breast reconstruction — and the partners, family, or friends supporting them. No referral needed, and no decisions need to have been made yet.
Is it really free?
Yes, completely free. Registration through Eventbrite is required so we can plan for the event and keep you updated with any changes.
What are the live models, exactly?
Volunteers who have had breast reconstruction choose to be present at the event to share their real results in person. It’s a private, respectful environment — and the part of the day that most attendees say they needed most.
Will flat closure be covered?
Yes — BRA Day presents every option fairly, without a default “right answer.” Flat closure is a valid choice and is discussed alongside implant-based and autologous reconstruction options.
Where exactly is the venue?
Do I need to bring anything?
Just yourself — and any questions you’ve been meaning to ask. Light refreshments will be provided.
How do I get to the BRA Day event using public transit?
The closest SkyTrain station is Broadway–City Hall Station on the Canada Line (West Broadway and Cambie Street).
From the station, you can reach Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) by:
Bus (fastest option): Take the eastbound #99 or #9 bus from West Broadway and get off at the Willow Street or Heather Street stop (2 stops).
Walking: A flat, 10–15 minute walk (approximately 1 km) west along West Broadway.
Where can I park, what does it cost, and how do I pay?
The main public parking facility is the VGH 12th Avenue Parkade (Lot #186).
Address: 885 West 12th Avenue (vehicle entrance on Laurel Street)
Alternative: Diamond Health Care Centre (DHCC) Parkade on Laurel Street between 11th and 12th Avenues
Parking rates (subject to change):
$3.00 per 30 minutes
$6.00 per hour
$18.75 daily maximum (24 hours)
Payment options include:
Visa, Mastercard, and American Express
Coins (loonies, toonies, and quarters)
Scan to Pay mobile payment (Parkade Code: 640186)
Please check the posted signage upon arrival for current parking rates and payment instructions.
Is street parking available?
Yes. Metered street parking is available along West 12th Avenue, Laurel Street, Oak Street, and Heather Street.
Rates generally range from $3.00–$6.00 per hour, depending on the location and time of day.
Most spaces immediately surrounding VGH have a 2-hour time limit between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
Payment can be made at the meter using coins or a credit card, or through the PayByPhone app, which allows you to extend your parking session remotely.
If you are looking for free parking, limited unmetered parking may be available in residential areas south of West 13th Avenue, approximately 3–4 blocks from the hospital. However, many of these streets also have a 2-hour parking limit for non-residents between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Always check posted signage before leaving your vehicle.
Please note that parking enforcement around VGH is strict. The City of Vancouver actively enforces the 2-hour parking limit and No Stopping restrictions (typically 3:00–6:00 PM on major roads such as Oak Street and West Broadway). Vehicles parked in violation may be ticketed or towed.
You deserve to make this decision informed.
Register free — spots are limited. One afternoon that can change how you see every option ahead of you.