Stronger Together: Women Leading the Way in Breast Health at NYGH

In time for International Women’s Day, we’re highlighting some of the incredible women who make up North York General’s Breast Health Program — leaders, caregivers, and experts dedicated to early detection and life-saving care.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Canadian women, making access to cutting-edge screening technology more crucial than ever. As we work towards bringing a fourth state-of-the-art mammography machine to NYGH, we asked our team to share their thoughts on their work, their mentors, and the importance of investing in breast health technology.

Here’s what they had to say:

Your work directly impacts women’s health every day—how does that feel?

“I see each and every one of our patients as if they were my cousin, sister, mother, aunt, and grandmother. I have also had family and friends referred to our Karen, Heather & Lynn Steinberg Breast Centre for imaging and have had nothing but positive things to say about the team. I take pride in the work our team does on a daily basis and the impact it has on our female patient population.”

Joanna Talotta
Manager, Breast Imaging/MRI/Interventional Radiology

“As a Plastic Surgeon who specializes in breast surgery, my patient population is predominantly female. I am honoured to be a part of their breast surgical journeys. Seeing patients in follow up after surgery and the impact on the improvement in their overall wellbeing and lifestyle is extremely gratifying.

Dr. Mary-Helen Mahoney
Deputy Chief of Surgery, Division Head of Plastic Surgery

Dr. Mary-Helen Mahoney, North York General

Is there a woman who has had a big impact on your career in breast health?

“Dr Liz LaMere, our former chief radiologist at NYGH has been an incredible mentor for me. She motivates through her compassion, expertise and vision to advance imaging in health care.”

Dr. Petrina Causer
Clinical Director of Mammography and Division Head of Breast Imaging

“I never wanted to do mammography; it was not on my mind. But my supervisor, whom I worked with when I began my journey as a Medical Radiation Technologist, pulled me aside and said, ‘Would you like to train to do mammograms?’

That lady trained me excellently. She showed me tips and tricks and instilled in me compassion for quality work and the importance of always being empathetic. I have never forgotten her instructions. One main thing she said to me was, ‘Never, ever stop doing mammography — you are exceptional.’
That was 17 years ago, and I have indeed never stopped.”

Malouwa Esprit
Charge Technologist/Navigator, Breast Imaging

As we work towards bringing a fourth mammography machine to NYGH, why do you see it as an important addition?

Ronit Firdman, Registered Technologist, North York General

“An additional mammography machine means more accessible screening, shorter wait times, earlier detection, and more efficient care — ultimately saving lives. With the new OBSP program lowering the screening age from 50 to 40, this addition is essential to meeting the growing need for high-quality breast cancer detection and care in our community.”

Ronit Firdman
Mammography Technologist, Breast Imaging

“Our BMO Breast Diagnostic Clinic is extremely busy. We have worked very hard to constantly improve. As we all know recently it was decided that women age 40 can now self refer for screening mammography. As efficient as we try to be, this has greatly impacted our volumes. A new mammography machine would be instrumental in helping us maintain our efficient and high standard of care.”

Kim Wagner, RN
Coordinator, BMO Breast Diagnostic Centre

Expanding Access to Care with a New Mammography Machine at NYGH Life changes in a blink for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, and with your support, NYGH can be there for every patient on this journey. This year, thanks to donors like you, we are moving towards the acquisition of a fourth mammography system. Your donation towards this vital technology will make a lasting impact on the thousands of patients who turn to us in their time of need.

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