Help Us Change Pancreatic Cancer in Atlantic Canada
Your donation supports patient travel grants and research that’s focused on better outcomes — right here at home.
Donate NowWe’re rewriting the playbook on pancreatic cancer advocacy in Canada.
Inspired by Heather—a registered nurse who dedicated over 35 years to her community—our foundation is built on her journey from caregiver to patient. As a family, we know families from smaller provinces hit barriers at every turn, from accessing crucial tools like somatic testing to joining clinical trials that improve outcomes. Sometimes Invisible borders and postal codes in Canada decide who gets a chance to fight. Pancreatic cancer doesn’t discriminate, and Canada’s healthcare system shouldn’t either.
We’re not bogged down by bureaucracy; we’re here to work for real change for Canadians with pancreatic cancer. This isn’t about broad promises—it’s about spreading awareness , working with government leaders and taking action to work towards better care. Our approach is clear: we’re putting faces, not statistics, forward.
Meet Heather, and the Family Behind Heather Cutler Foundation.
This publication is in loving memory of the late Heather Cutler and her two-year battle with Pancreatic Cancer that brought her from the small province of Newfoundland, to the top minds in Pancreatic Cancer research at Johns Hopkins. Read first-hand accounts from Heather’s family.
Discover Heather’s JourneyOur Focus Areas
National Guidelines for Pancreatic Cancer Care
We're working to establish comprehensive, nationwide standards for pancreatic cancer treatment and care, ensuring all Canadians have access to the best possible outcomes.
On GuidelinesExpanded Clinical Trial Access
We're advocating for increased access to cutting-edge clinical trials, giving more patients the opportunity to benefit from innovative treatments and contribute to pancreatic cancer research.
On TrialsDrug Approval Transparency
We're pushing for greater transparency in the drug approval process, aiming to expedite access to potentially life-saving medications for pancreatic cancer patients.
On Approvals
Resources and Support
Demystify and familiarize yourself with the wave of medical jargon coming your way with our easy-to-understand Glossary of Pancreatic Cancer Terminology. Explore the symptoms and risk factors. Take a closer look at some of the treatment.
Access ResourcesOur Impact
raised for pancreatic cancer research
signatures on our Change.org petition
of the required 500 signatures on e-6492
Our volunteers drive advocacy at every level — from shaping national policy to expanding public awareness across Canada.
Join 23 likeminded advocates strengthening Canada’s response to pancreatic cancer.
Learn How to Advocate
You are not the period at the end of your diagnosis. Our advocacy began with our mother, Heather. Through persistence, we secured somatic testing at our local hospital—proving the power of advocacy. Learn the questions to ask, the knowledge to empower yourself, and how to push forward when the system pushes back.
Find your voice
Newsroom
Stay up-to-date with The Heather Cutler Foundation’s latest initiatives. Our Newsroom features press releases on advocacy actions and fundraising efforts, including participation in events like Kicking PancreAS with Craig’s Cause. Follow our journey as we raise awareness, engage communities, and drive meaningful change to improve pancreatic cancer care across Canada.
THFC Newsroom