You may have spotted Kristy Allen, MPH, hosting our most recent webinars, though she’s also been a dedicated member of our Board of Directors and Advocacy Committee since May 2024.

When her sister-in-law, Michelle, was diagnosed with brain cancer in Sept. 2023, Kristy’s family turned to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada for support and resources. Kristy, whose background is in public health, knowledge translation and community engagement, in turn offered to support the organization with her professional expertise.

“I’ve always believed that knowledge is power when it comes to your health,” says Kristy, who works as a Knowledge Translation and Implementation Co-ordinator at the Waypoint Research Institute, within the Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care in Penetanguishene, Ont. “Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada’s resources were helpful for our family in those initial navigation periods. I wanted to stay connected and put some effort into continuing to work with this community.”

One of Kristy’s most treasured memories is the Brain Tumour Walk she and her sister-in-law hosted in northern Ontario last year, near where their family lives.

“We had a bunch of our friends and family fundraise and come out, and it was really special to be able to do it together,” Kristy says.

Kristy remains committed to supporting the brain tumour community, combining her lived experience with her professional skills to give back in meaningful ways.

“I appreciate the work that BTFC does,” Kristy says. “I know, firsthand, that it makes a difference, so I’m happy to lend my support however I can.”

From all of us at Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada, thank you, Kristy, for all you do!