Isabelle Brouillette’s life took a dramatic turn on November 20, 2024, when she was diagnosed with nasal septum cancer. This revelation came while she was touring with the play “Deux femmes en or.” The 56-year-old actress expressed her mixed emotions during a recent interview at a café in Saint-Laurent, reflecting on the uncertainty that followed her diagnosis.
Journey Through Cancer and Reconstruction
Upon receiving her diagnosis, Brouillette faced a deep sense of fear about her life and career. She noted, “At first, it feels like falling into a pit. You think it’s over.” On December 17, 2024, she underwent surgery that resulted in the removal of her nose and five teeth, with attempts to reconstruct her palate proving unsuccessful.
In the two months following her surgery, she began using a custom nasal prosthesis, officially referred to as an epithesis. Brouillette detailed her emotional journey, emphasizing her inability to breathe through her nose and the physical and psychological challenges she faced.
Radiation Therapy Challenges
After spending 25 days in the hospital, she underwent two months of intensive radiation therapy in February and March 2025. These treatments were tough and came with debilitating side effects, impacting her speech and saliva production. Brouillette shared her doctor’s advice: “This is a marathon; it will take a year.” Despite the overwhelming nature of the treatment, she persevered.
Support and Resilience
Brouillette found strength through therapy and supportive friends. A psychologist assured her that overcoming this ordeal was possible, while a doctor friend encouraged her to focus on positive moments. “Even in my lowest times, I found joy in the softness of my sheets,” she reminisced.
Though she has encountered significant changes, including a modified diction due to her surgery, her passion for acting remains strong. She states, “I’m 56 years old; I won’t change my profession now.” She plans to return to the stage with two upcoming productions: “Changer de vie” at La Licorne starting January 20 and “Visages” in April at Espace Go.
Reflections and Future Aspirations
Brouillette is open about her changes in appearance and reaffirms her readiness to return to acting. “I have no shame in how I look,” she expressed, demonstrating her resolve amidst her challenges. The journey has taught her valuable lessons about humor and resilience, prompting her to prioritize her well-being over an overloaded schedule.
As she prepares for her theatrical return, she envisions a performance full of vitality and energy. Additionally, Brouillette is set to release a book next autumn chronicling her experiences. The book aims to reflect on her journey without self-pity and to emphasize finding the extraordinary in everyday life.
- Surgery Date: December 17, 2024
- Hospital Stay: 25 days
- Radiation Therapy: February and March 2025
- Upcoming Performances:
- Changer de vie at La Licorne: January 20 – March 6
- Visages at Espace Go: April 14 – May 9
Through her journey with nasal septum cancer, Isabelle Brouillette exemplifies resilience and commitment to her craft, ready to share her story and inspire others along the way.
