We’re survivors, doctors, patients. We’ve been there, are there, or are experts in the field.

Be the Choice was founded in September 2012 by Melanie Adrian, Robin Beasley, and a team of dedicated volunteers. Melanie and Robin had been diagnosed with breast cancer, and had become intimately familiar with the cancer health care system in Ontario.

They shared similar experiences with the lack of information regarding breast cancer treatment options and envisioned a tool that would help patients and their loved ones learn the basics about breast cancer, understand treatment possibilities, identify what a comprehensive treatment path looks like, and be connected to a larger community.

They gathered together a team of experts in breast cancer research and medicine, with whom they conceptualized and developed a unique Decision Tree.  The Decision Tree is designed to promote opportunities for patients to have interactive and informed conversations with medical professionals and family members regarding their breast cancer treatment expectations and outcomes, and to create a platform through which patients can become empowered by being aware of all available options.

Be the Choice operated from 2012-2026. During these 14 years more than 40,000+ patients used our Decision Trees to understand their treatment options. We fostered collaborations within breast cancer communities and continued to update the site regularly in French and English. We are proud to have been a bridge in a much-needed gap in empowering patients to navigate the choices of available breast cancer treatments options.

Since 2012, the patient resource landscape has evolved significantly and there has been a recognition within cancer care more generally that patients need patient-centered tools. Well known organizations have stepped into the information stage in relevant, peer-reviewed and accessible formats. We applaud this development. 

The Be the Choice site will no longer be updated as of 2026. The information remains accurate and patients can trust the content.