On April 11, 2025, Julie Drolet, a prominent news anchor for ICI RDI, shared her deeply personal journey battling aggressive breast cancer during an emotional interview with Pénélope McQuade. The interview marked a significant moment for Drolet, who had been absent from the airwaves for nearly three months due to her health struggles.
Drolet revealed that she was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, a particularly aggressive form of the disease, on her birthday, October 30, 2024. This shocking diagnosis came just two weeks after her younger sister, Véronique, received a similar diagnosis. "I was just told, 'Congratulations, you don’t have cancer,' and then, in the same breath, the doctor’s face changed," Drolet recounted, reflecting on the moment that altered her life.
In her candid interview, Drolet described the challenges she faced as she began her treatment regimen, which included chemotherapy and immunotherapy. She explained how the side effects of the treatment were overwhelming, causing severe pain and even mobility issues that left her in a wheelchair for a time. "I was on morphine every two hours for a while, managing a pill organizer became a full-time job," she said, illustrating the physical toll her condition and treatment took on her.
Despite the daunting nature of her diagnosis, Drolet found solace in simple pleasures, such as walking her dog, Hercules. "That was my happiness during the early months of chemotherapy," she said. However, as her treatment progressed, the neuropathic pain intensified, making everyday tasks excruciatingly painful. "The pain became so severe that just washing my face or brushing my teeth would leave me immobilized for half an hour," she recalled.
Drolet's resilience shone through as she navigated her treatment. She emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, even amid the chaos of illness. "It’s a transformative experience to go through a life-threatening illness. It forces you to confront what truly matters in life," she noted, highlighting her renewed appreciation for her loved ones.
Her emotional journey was further complicated by the familial history of cancer, as both her mother and grandmother had faced similar battles. This context added layers to her experience, making her reflections on life and mortality all the more poignant. "I had to prepare for the worst, which was therapeutic in itself. It made me think about my life and what I wanted to leave behind for my children," she shared.
Drolet's interview also touched on her relationship with her medical team, particularly her doctor, whom she described as "a bit of a cowboy" but deeply caring. He was direct with her from the start, advising her to prepare her will shortly after her diagnosis. "It was a shock! But he also told me, 'What I want is for you to live,'" she recalled, emphasizing the supportive nature of her medical care.
As she continues her treatment, now in her second round of chemotherapy, Drolet remains committed to sharing her story. "I don’t want to waste a minute of my life," she affirmed, underscoring her determination to live fully despite the challenges she faces.
In a touching moment, she expressed gratitude for the support she has received from her family, friends, and her loyal companion, Hercules. "When you’re sick, having a pet is extraordinary. They don’t require you to explain your emotions; you can cry with them, and they bring you back to the present moment," she said, illustrating the comfort her dog provides during difficult times.
The April 11 interview not only offered insight into Drolet's personal battle but also served as a reminder of the broader challenges faced by those dealing with cancer. Her story resonates with many, as it encapsulates the fear, pain, and ultimately, the hope that accompanies such a diagnosis.
Drolet’s openness about her condition and the realities of her treatment journey has sparked a wave of support from her audience, with her recent social media post garnering over 2,000 likes and hundreds of comments. She shared a photo of herself and her partner, Michel C. Auger, on their way to the Radio-Canada studios, symbolizing her return to work and her commitment to continue sharing her experiences.
As she moves forward, Julie Drolet remains a beacon of strength and resilience, inspiring many with her story of survival and hope. Her journey is a testament to the power of community support, the importance of mental health during illness, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.
