Raphaëlle Tousignant has defied the odds throughout her life, first as a survivor of childhood bone cancer and later as a groundbreaking Para ice hockey player. Recently, she confronted cancer again when diagnosed with breast cancer last October. Tousignant completed her chemotherapy and will undergo a double mastectomy soon, a significant victory for the 23-year-old.
“I’m not technically cancer-free yet as I await my scans, but after surgery, I will be. It’s an incredible feeling to move forward,” Tousignant shared in an interview with CBC Sports’ Allison Lang. However, a new challenge emerged as she discovered she lacks the tumor-suppressing gene, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, indicating a continued risk of cancer. Despite this, Tousignant expressed determination to closely manage her health with her doctor to reduce the need for extensive treatments.
Maintaining her training regimen during chemotherapy, Tousignant highlighted the importance of staying active amidst her health struggles. She emphasized her commitment to advancing women’s Para hockey by aiming for a spot on the national team and advocating for a women’s Paralympic tournament.
While Para hockey is traditionally mixed-gender in the Paralympics, only a few women have participated in the tournament. Tousignant aims to break barriers by securing a spot on the national team, having made history as the first woman on Canada’s roster for the 2023 world championship. She aspires to compete in the Paralympics and promote inclusivity in the sport.
Despite facing setbacks due to her breast cancer diagnosis, Tousignant remains dedicated to her athletic pursuits and believes in the importance of women’s representation in Para hockey. She recognizes the need for more opportunities for female athletes in the sport and advocates for a women’s division in the Paralympics.
Tousignant’s journey serves as an inspiration to many as she continues to push for gender equality in Para hockey. Her resilience and determination embody a message of empowerment for aspiring female athletes, underscoring the need for greater recognition and support for women in adaptive sports.