How We Got Started

Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada was established in London, Ontario in 1982 after Steve Northey lost his eight-year-old daughter to a brain tumour. Together with Dr. Rolando Del Maestro, a neurosurgeon and Pamela Del Maestro, a neuroscience nurse, they worked to form an organization to improve the quality of life for those affected by a brain tumour.

Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada has become Canada’s leader in providing brain tumour information and support. This leadership includes active membership the Canadian Association of Brain Tumour Organizations (CABTO) and the International Brain Tumour Alliance (IBTA).

Marking Milestones

30th Anniversary

In 2012, 30 years of hope and support are being honoured. This milestone anniversary is being marked in a number of ways including paying tribute to the contributions of the many volunteers and donors who have helped the organization grow to be an important resource for any Canadian affected by a brain tumour. Learn about everything happening and reflect on how far things have come in this special section of the website.

25th Anniversary

in 2007, 25 years of accelerating research and providing support and information to Canadians affected by a brain tumours was honoured. In those first 25 years, the organization grew from brainstorming around a London, Ontario kitchen table between Steve Northey, Dr. Rolando Del Maestro and Pam Del Maestro to an organization offering hope and support to all Canadians affected by a brain tumour.

By 2007 there were 17 support groups, Patient Resource Handbooks in both English and French and both adult and pediatric versions. Thousands of volunteers have contributed to all aspects of the fight against brain tumours across Canada. During this year of celebration this history was honoured and momentum generated to continue working towards our goals. Read an article from the London Free Press.