The Princess Margaret “Transformers”

At The Princess Margaret, standard of care is expected, but our cancer experts demand more for their patients. They’re constantly researching and developing unique and novel treatments to save more lives. We fight for patients like Lauren Craig. In the fall of 2016, Lauren had graduated from university and was working full-time. But, in less than a week, the 23-year-old’s life was turned upside down. In November, Lauren noticed a large bump on her neck. Tests revealed why she suddenly felt exhausted, stiff, and weak: she had lymphoma. “Not many people my age are sick. That’s been the really hard part. Why me?” says Lauren. Diagnosed with Stage 2A Hodgkin’s lymphoma, she began chemotherapy at The Princess Margaret with her family by her side. On March 29, 2017, Lauren rang the Bravery Bell to mark her final treatment. “I’ll never forget hearing so many people cheering for me. Now, whenever I hear the Bravery Bell, I tear up because I know the person ringing it is as excited and as relieved as I was,” says Lauren. One month after her chemotherapy ended, she began a four-week, daily regimen of radiation. “Lauren received precision radiotherapy to her neck and chest. Our methods dramatically reduce the dose to normal tissue, to decrease the risk of late effects,” says Dr. David Hodgson, Radiation Oncologist at The Princess Margaret. Even though treatment drained her physically and mentally, Lauren is feeling stronger every day. “Lauren is one of the most positive and mature young patients I have encountered. Seeing her be successful in her cancer journey is extremely gratifying,” says Dr. Anca Prica, Hematologist at The Princess Margaret. Lauren is focused on her recovery and getting back to doing all of the things she loves, especially skiing. “Cancer will probably be the hardest thing I’ll ever go through. Now, I tell myself, ‘You got through chemo. You got through radiation. You can get through anything. ’’’ LAUREN CRAIG IS OUR INSPIRATION AT THE PRINCESS MARGARET 3 THE TRANSFORMERS • TECHNOLOGY ISSUE OUR INSPIRATION