Vanessa Freeman

Background

About Vanessa Freeman

I'm a creative-turned-caregiver-turned-entrepreneur with a soft spot for bold ideas and a strong cup of tea. After 20+ years in marketing, design, and branding—working with everything from national brands to boutique clients—I took an unexpected left turn. In 2016, I learned I carried the BRCA2 gene mutation and chose to undergo a prophylactic double mastectomy. That experience didn’t just change my body—it reshaped my purpose. Today, I’m the owner of Pink Ribbon Boutique, a certified mastectomy fitting boutique in Markham, Ontario, where we support women through some of the most vulnerable (and powerful) moments of their lives. We provide breast prosthetics, post-surgical garments, bras, swimwear, and lymphedema fittings—but more than that, we provide understanding, trust, and time. Recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is healing. I’ve built a business rooted in empathy and efficiency—leveraging my design background to craft a brand and experience that is both compassionate and credible. I collaborate with hospitals, foundations, and advocacy groups. I speak candidly about the intersection of healthcare, identity, and entrepreneurship. And I lead a growing team of certified fitters who, like me, believe support should be equal parts heart and expertise. If you're looking to connect around women's health, cancer recovery, patient experience, compassionate leadership, or turning lived experience into action—reach out. I’m always up for real conversations, strategic collaborations, and making meaningful change (ideally with snacks).