Fatal Misdiagnosis: Canadian Woman with Stage 4 Cancer Dies on Christmas Day

What Happened?

A Nova Scotian woman, who had to wait nearly 2 years to get a vulvar cancer diagnosis, passed away at the age of 45 on Dec. 25, 2025.

According to Global News, Mandy Wood’s cancer was detected when she was already at Stage 3. While undergoing treatment, her condition progressed to Stage 4.

“I went misdiagnosed for over a year, which I try not to dwell on too much…you know, what could have been,” Wood told the news outlet in November — just weeks after doctors told her she had only months left to live.

“I think it needs to be easier to access gynecological care because 2 years, a lot can happen in 2 years. And that’s a ridiculous wait time.”

Her obituary claims that Christmas Day was her favourite holiday.

The Importance of Mandy Wood’s Story

The misdiagnosis and wait time that Wood was forced to endure highlights why it’s crucial for Canadians to understand their rights, whether they’re struggling with cancer or another debilitating medical condition.

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Disability Benefits for Cancer in Canada

Cancer and cancer treatment can have a profound impact on an individual’s ability to perform their job duties.

For Canadians who can’t work, short-term disability (STD) and long-term disability (LTD) benefits can provide a crucial financial lifeline.

How These Benefits Help

• STD: Provides temporary financial support for individuals unable to perform their job duties.
• LTD: Offers income replacement for individuals unable to return to work for an extended period of time.

To qualify for STD or LTD benefits, medical documentation is essential to demonstrate how your condition prevents you from working.

Sadly, insurance companies often deny legitimate LTD claims — including in cases involving cancer — adding unnecessary stress to an already difficult situation.

SEE ALSO
• Medical Conditions that Qualify for Disability in Canada
• Denied LTD? Seek Legal Advice Before Appealing the Decision
• Pocket Disability Lawyer: Real-Time Insights on Your Rights

📺 WATCH: Next Steps for Canadians After a Disability Claim is Denied

Claim Denied? Contact Us

If your insurance company prevented you from accessing disability benefits for cancer, or another medical condition, connect with an experienced disability lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.

Our compassionate team regularly resolves issues involving STD, LTD, critical illness, life insurance, and mortgage insurance claims.

We’ve helped countless Canadians secure the compensation they’re owed. Contact us today for a FREE disability consultation.