Navigating life after a breast cancer diagnosis is a journey you don’t have to walk alone. Join us for an empowering afternoon of expert guidance, gentle movement, and community warmth designed specifically for you.
You’ve been through so much. Let’s take a breath together.
If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, your world has likely shifted in ways you never expected. Between treatments, appointments, and recovery, finding your footing again can feel overwhelming. The Breast Defense Retreat was created with a simple mission. To wrap you in a community of care, arm you with empowering health and wellness knowledge, and give you a safe, nurturing space to breathe, move, and heal. We warmly invite those recently diagnosed, as well as the supporters walking alongside them.
Dr. Naomi Rittberg (Breast Cancer Supportive Care): – Family physician with a focused practice in breast cancer and high risk surveillance care.
Rafael Burgos (Alpine Sport Therapy): Specialists in recovery, movement therapy, and research-backed physical wellness. Discussion on Physiotherapy and Manual Therapy for post breast surgeries enhancing quality of life.
Dr.Seemab Haider (Pureform Radiology): Compassionate local imaging expert sharing clear education on ongoing breast health and diagnostics. Dedicated Q/A.
Activity Details
1:00 pm Welcome – Settle in, grab a warm cup or refreshment, and connect with fellow attendees
1:05 – 1:35 pm Dr. Naomi Rittberg (Breast Cancer Supportive Care) Expert presentation followed by an open, compassionate Q&A
1:40 – 2:10 pm Gentle Yoga – Movement & Mindfulness session to reconnect with your body. Led by Paige Laloge
2:15 – 2:45 pm Dr. Seemab Haider (Pureform Radiology) Compassionate local imaging expert sharing clear education on ongoing breast health and diagnostics followed up with a Q&A
2:45-3:00 pm – Refreshment Break
3:00-3:30 pm Alpine Sport Therapy – Rafael Burgos will speak about the powerful benefits of post-surgery movement and the latest exercise research with time for a Q&A
3:30-4:10 pm Sound Bath and Guided Meditation-Mindfulness session to soothe your nervous system and to help find grounding and inner peace. Led by Devan Rylee & Brittany Gillis
4:10 – 4:30 pm Community Social – Refreshments and casual conversation (kindly sponsored by Alpine).
*Lucy Mulvihill is a Master Reiki practitioner and will be offering brief individual Reiki sessions during the Sound Bath and Guided Meditation session. Participation is entirely optional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this retreat for? This event is thoughtfully designed for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer and have completed or are going through treatment.
Do I need experience with yoga or meditation? Not at all! Every movement and mindfulness session is completely gentle, optional, and adaptable to your body's current needs and comfort level.
What is included in the $10 registration fee? Your registration covers full access to all presentations, expert Q&A's, wellness sessions, and refreshments. It also supports the Calgary Sistership Dragon Boat Association. Plus, your $10 registration fee can be applied toward a future Sistership Dragon Boat membership should you decide to join the team as an active paddler in 2027.
Where should I park or enter? The event takes place at the Pureform Head Office in the Petwin Atrium Commons (8500 Macleod Tr. S). Parking is free in the parkade and street.
Take a pause. Find support. Feel inspired.
Brought to you with care by Sistership Calgary, Pureform Radiology, and our wonderful community partners.
