Michaela Schellenberg

Michaela (she/her) is a genetic counsellor in the Genetics and Metabolism department at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She earned her Master’s in Genetic Counselling from the University of Manitoba in 2023 and became certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling in 2024. Michaela currently works in the Adult Metabolics clinic, having previously trained in the Cancer Genetics clinic during her genetic counselling program. Before her Master’s in Genetic Counselling, she completed a Master’s in Biochemistry and Medical Genetics, as well as several years of undergraduate research, at the University of Manitoba and CancerCare Manitoba. Her research focused on identifying genes crucial for cancer development and progression in colorectal and ovarian cancer. Michaela is passionate about continuing to learn and educating patients and families about cancer genetics.

Robin Martin

Robin (she/her) is a 26-year-old previvor living with the genetic mutation RAD51D. Robin received her genetic test results at age 25 after choosing to seek genetic counselling and testing with support and encouragement from her family, especially her grandmother Helen Martin who is a 19-year ovarian cancer survivor and advocate. The mantra instilled in her since childhood by her grandmother, “knowledge is power”, has guided Robin in her ovarian cancer prevention journey and her conviction that women and families affected by this disease deserve better. She is honoured and grateful for the opportunity to share her experience and perspective. Originally from Hamilton, Ontario, she now lives and works in Toronto. Robin holds an M.A. in European & Russian Affairs from the University of Toronto and works in government relations, policy, and advocacy in the health and life sciences sector.