
Celebrating 43 years of hope
On January 30, 2025, Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada proudly marks its 43rd anniversary—a journey rooted in hope and unwavering commitment to the brain tumour community. From our humble beginnings around a kitchen table to becoming a national beacon of support and research, our story is a testament to the power of collective effort and shared vision.
A legacy born from love and loss
Following the tragic loss of eight-year-old Kelly Northey to a brain tumour, her father, Steve Northey, alongside neurosurgeon Dr. Rolando Del Maestro and his wife, Pamela, a neuroscience nurse, sought to create a resource for families facing similar challenges. Their shared grief and determination led to the establishment of Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada, aiming to provide support, education, and fund research for brain tumour patients and their families. Read our story here.
Four decades of hope and progress
Over the past 43 years, our organization has evolved from a local initiative to a national organization, serving Canadians currently living with a brain tumour. The foundation’s efforts have been multifaceted:
- Research funding: With millions of dollars directed towards research, we played a pivotal role in advancements such as improved radiation treatments, reduced chemotherapy side effects, and enhanced patient quality of life.
- Patient and survivor support: We offer a range of resources and services, including support groups, patient and caregiver handbooks, and more, ensuring that no one faces a brain tumour diagnosis alone.
- Advocacy and awareness: Our organization plays a crucial role in raising awareness for brain tumours by educating the public, advocating for research and policy changes, and fostering community connections. Through initiatives like awareness campaigns, support programs, and funding research, we inspire hope and drive meaningful progress toward better treatments and support for Canadians affected by brain tumours.
Looking ahead: strengthening community bonds
As we celebrate this milestone, the focus is on deepening connections within the brain tumour community. Recognizing that collective strength arises from active engagement, we are eager to hear from you:
- Your needs: What challenges are you facing? How can we tailor our programs to better serve you?
- Educational topics: Are there specific areas you’d like to learn more about, such as emerging treatments, coping strategies, or navigating the healthcare system?
- Connecting with experts: Which field specialists or researchers would you like to hear from? We aim to facilitate dialogues that matter to you.
Your feedback is invaluable. By sharing your thoughts and experiences, you can help shape the foundation’s initiatives. Please reach out through our contact page or by email to share your insights.
Join us in celebrating and shaping the future
Central to BTFC’s mission is the concept of hope. Hope drives research, fuels advocacy, and underpins the support systems that uplift patients and families. It’s the thread that connects every story, every breakthrough, and every step forward.
This anniversary is not just a time for reflection but also a call to action. We invite you to:
- Share your story: Personal experiences can offer solace and inspiration to others walking a similar path. Consider contributing your journey to our website’s stories section.
- Participate in events: Engage with the community through events like the Brain Tumour Walk, which brings together individuals nationwide to celebrate, remember, and advocate.
- Support our mission: Your donations fund critical research and support services. Learn more about how you can contribute.
Together, we’ve achieved remarkable milestones over the past 43 years. With your continued involvement and support, we look forward to a future filled with hope, progress, and, ultimately, a cure.