About Us

From our Founder—

When my sister and I were thrown into the world of pancreatic cancer, we weren’t researchers or medical professionals — we were just two people who loved our mom and refused to accept that nothing more could be done. Every night, we sat at our kitchen table, reading medical journals we didn’t always understand, asking questions we didn’t know we were allowed to ask, and discovering just how much of pancreatic cancer care depends on where you live, who’s in your corner, and how hard you’re willing to fight.

We founded The Heather Cutler Foundation because we know we’re not the only family who’s ever felt helpless, angry, or blindsided by a diagnosis. We also know that we can do better — for the next family, and the one after that.

This isn’t just a foundation. It’s a promise. A promise that no one should have to fight for basic answers. That geography should never determine your access to a clinical trial or cutting-edge treatment. That everyone deserves hope backed by evidence, compassion backed by action, and advocacy that refuses to wait for permission.

Our work is powered by people — families who share their stories, researchers who challenge the status quo, and people across Canada who believe that we are stronger when we fight for one another. With your help, we’re rewriting the story of pancreatic cancer, not just in memory of those we’ve lost, but in honour of those still fighting and those yet to be diagnosed.

Whether you’re newly navigating this disease, supporting a loved one, or simply want to be part of something that truly changes lives, you belong here. We are Canada too — and together, we’re not just raising awareness. We’re raising the bar.

Our Approach

We’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, revealing the flaws and inequities in Canada’s healthcare system, especially in smaller provinces. As a family, we know this experience firsthand.

We’re not here to wait; we’re here to act. Heather’s care journey taught us how families facing pancreatic cancer confront barriers at every turn—especially in accessing essential tools like somatic testing and clinical trials, which research shows lead to better outcomes. But pancreatic cancer doesn’t discriminate, and Canada’s healthcare system shouldn’t either. Seeking second opinions in the U.S. drove home the painful truth: invisible borders and postal codes within Canada decide who gets a chance to fight and who doesn’t.

Our approach is clear: we’re putting faces, not statistics, forward. 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 taking action, calling on government leaders, and mobilizing public support to demand better.

From our founding, our incorporation as a federal non-profit, to joining hands with the World Pancreatic Cancer Coalition- Team Heather has raised over $14,000 for pancreatic cancer research through our participation in Craig’s Cause #KickingPancreAS fundraiser, and our petition for cancer care reform has gathered over 800 signatures. Now, with the support of some of the world’s strongest voices, we’re more determined than ever to take this fight forward.

Honouring Heather Cutler and Her Journey with Pancreatic Cancer

A nurse of thirty-five years, a loving Mother and Wife, a dedicated friend, and an unexpected warrior—Heather Cutler embodied resilience and compassion. Her journey with pancreatic cancer was a battle fought with unwavering strength and an indomitable spirit. Heather’s dedication to her family and her patients was paralleled only by her courage in facing one of the most aggressive cancers. The publication Team Heather and the formation of The Heather Cutler Foundation is a testament to her legacy, aiming to provide support and resources for others navigating similar challenges.

Mission and Vision

Vision

A Canada where a pancreatic cancer diagnosis no longer means saying goodbye.

Mission

To improve survival and quality of life for Canadians living with pancreatic cancer.

The mission of Heather Cutler Foundation is rooted in the tireless efforts of our Mother, Heather Cutler and our family’s journey through the complexities of pancreatic cancer treatment. We are dedicated to advocating self-advocacy in smaller healthcare settings, where patients often face significant hurdles in accessing timely and effective care. Heather waited more than two months after diagnosis to start chemotherapy. We believe that patients can significantly improve their chances of managing this aggressive disease with the correct information, resources, and support.

All the lessons learned—the highs, the lows, the little tips and tricks we learned over a two—year period—will go to waste if we don’t continue to share and guide each other as a community of those touched by Pancreatic Cancer. 

Who We Are

Fundraising Committee

The Fundraising Committee is dedicated to developing and implementing strategies to raise essential funds for the foundation’s initiatives. They organize campaigns, events, and outreach efforts to ensure we have the resources to support our mission and provide critical services for people living with pancreatic cancer.

Advocacy Committee

The Advocacy Committee is committed to pushing for systemic changes in healthcare policy, with a focus on improving access to treatment and support for those impacted by pancreatic cancer. They engage with lawmakers, organizations, and the public to advocate for better care, research funding, and public awareness of the disease.

Educational Committee

The Educational Committee focuses on creating and disseminating informative content that raises awareness about pancreatic cancer, treatment options, and the importance of clinical trials. They work to empower patients, families, and healthcare providers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.

Our Memberships

We are proud members of leading organizations dedicated to advancing cancer care and advocacy.

What We Offer

• ℹ️ Comprehensive Information: We provide clear, relevant and up-to-date information on pancreatic cancer, including the latest research, treatment options, and advancements in the field.
• 📣 Advocacy and Support: We are passionate about empowering patients to advocate for themselves, particularly in smaller healthcare settings where access to specialized care can be limited.

Get Involved

Join us in advancing equitable care for people affected by pancreatic cancer. Whether you’re an individual looking to volunteer, a professional eager to share your skills, or an organization seeking partnership, your involvement helps drive meaningful change.

There are many ways to contribute: volunteer your time, raise awareness, donate, or collaborate with us to tackle systemic gaps in healthcare. Opportunities, including event support, campaign outreach, and operational roles, are regularly updated on our Volunteer page.

Your efforts will support impactful initiatives, including the #WeAreCanadaToo campaign and advocacy for improved healthcare policies and access.

Contact Us

We are always actively looking for guest authors or others who would like to share their experiences advocating for themselves or loved ones. For more information or to get involved, don't hesitate to get in touch with us at support@heathercutler.ca.

Alternatively, use our contact form and someone from Team Heather will reach out to you.

Team Heather Raises Over $10,000 for Pancreatic Cancer Research and Support at KickingPancreas

The funds will support pancreatic cancer research and honor Heather Cutler’s memory through a dedicated research grant.

EIN PresswireChristopher Cutler