Meet Dr. Brian Nocon (Star)

For Dr. Brian Nocon, taking on new challenges has always been part of his journey. Born and educated in the Philippines, Brian earned his medical degree from the University of Santo Tomas in Manila before moving with his family to Halifax, Nova Scotia.
In Halifax, Brian completed clinical research at Dalhousie University and worked as the International Medical Graduate (IMG) Bridging Program Coordinator at the Immigrant Settlement Association of Nova Scotia. He later entered Dalhousie's IMG clerkship program before completing his General Surgery residency at the University of Saskatchewan.
After practising as a community-based general surgeon at Aberdeen Hospital in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, Brian was recruited back to Saskatchewan. In August 2025, he and his wife, Dr. Andrhea Nocon, moved with their family to North Battleford, where he now practises as a general surgeon.
Brian's clinical interests include community-based surgery, trauma education, endoscopy, minimally invasive surgery, and colon cancer surgery. He is also passionate about helping internationally trained physicians navigate Canada's healthcare system and become part of their communities.
Although relatively new to the Battlefords, Brian and his family have quickly made North Battleford their home. Through his work, he has developed a strong appreciation for the relationships that grow through community-based medicine and the importance of providing accessible, high-quality healthcare close to home.
When asked to participate in Swinging with the Stars 2027, Brian saw an opportunity to step outside his comfort zone while supporting a cause that directly benefits the patients and families he serves. He believes strong local healthcare depends on a community willing to invest in its patients, healthcare professionals, and medical services.
As for his dance experience? Brian admits he has no formal training, but that doesn't mean he's a stranger to the dance floor! He enjoyed dancing growing up and now has plenty of fun dancing with his children during their family's silly nights at home.
Outside the operating room, Brian enjoys off-roading, mountain biking, travelling with his family, and playing airsoft. He's also been working toward his Advanced Open Water scuba certification, proving he's always ready for a new adventure.
Now, Brian is preparing for an entirely different kind of challenge. He's looking forward to learning some new moves, having plenty of fun, and proving that surgeons can do more than operate under bright lights!

Meet Melany Sander (Pro)

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I am originally from Wilkie and have now been calling North Battleford home for the past five years. I have always had strong ties to the Battlefords and surrounding communities. I have been a sonographer at Battlefords Union Hospital since 2020, where I get to see firsthand the important role local healthcare plays in the community.

When I’m not at the hospital, you’ll likely find me golfing with my boyfriend, hanging out with friends and family, or at the dance studio! I started dancing at the age of six and trained in many genres. I brought dance back into my life in 2021 and began teaching at Wilkie School of Dance. I now teach tap, jazz, hip hop, and lyrical and love sharing my passion for dance with all my dancers.

I said yes to Swinging with the Stars this year because supporting local healthcare is something close to my heart. Having worked at BUH for years, i have seen firsthand the difference it makes for patients, families, and healthcare teams. I’m excited to put my dance shoes to work and have some fun while giving back to the community I’m proud to be part of!

Support Team Scan ‘em and Cut ‘em

A surgeon, a sonographer, and a whole new kind of teamwork!
Team Scan ‘em and Cut ‘em is bringing healthcare experience, dance talent, and plenty of personality to the Swinging with the Stars 2027 stage.
Both Brian and Melany understand the importance of strong local healthcare. Through their work caring for patients in the Battlefords, they've seen firsthand why having quality medical services close to home matters.
Now, they're stepping away from their usual roles and onto the dance floor to help make a difference!
Cheer on Team Scan ‘em and Cut ‘em as they bring their freestyle performance to Swinging with the Stars 2027. Your support helps BHC Foundation raise funds for important medical equipment and strengthen healthcare close to home for patients and families throughout the Battlefords and surrounding communities.