About Us

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.

Our Mission

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

Board of Directors

Christopher Cutler

Founder

Christopher Cutler is a Canadian advocate and academic from Mount Pearl, Newfoundland and Labrador. His global experiences and his mother’s passing in May 2024 have shaped his commitment to healthcare reform.

After high school, Cutler completed a Japanese language program in Tokyo, Japan, living and working there until the 2011 Tohoku earthquake. He later taught English in Shenzhen, China, and studied Mandarin at National Central University in Taiwan, where he spent nearly four years focused on Asian studies.

Returning to Canada, Cutler pursued Asian Studies at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. He now divides his time between Vancouver and Mount Pearl.

Inspired by his experiences navigating the healthcare system during his mother’s illness, Cutler founded The Heather Cutler Foundation to tackle gaps in pancreatic cancer care. The foundation advocates for equitable access to somatic testing, clinical trials, and treatments, particularly in smaller provinces and rural areas.

Cutler’s advocacy work includes leading the #WeAreCanadaToo campaign and national petition efforts, such as Petition e-5186, submitted to the House of Commons. His global outlook and commitment to systemic change have established him as a key advocate for improved pancreatic cancer care in Canada.

Languages Spoken:

English, Japanese, Mandarin (Chinese)

Bethany Cutler

Director

Languages Spoken:

English, French

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.
• 📝 Resources and Tips: Our platform offers practical tips and resources to help patients and their families manage the disease more effectively, reducing delays and improving outcomes.

Upcoming Plans

• 🎙️Podcast Launch: We will launch a podcast series featuring interviews with medical professionals, researchers, and patients. The series will provide diverse perspectives and valuable insights into living with pancreatic cancer.
• Expanded Resources: Our website will continue to grow, adding more detailed guides, checklists, and tools like Clinical Trial Assist to assist patients and their families.
• 📒 Educational Materials: Pancreatic Cancer Starter Pack (ISBN: 978-1-0689589-0-8) and educational campaign Small Towns BIG Voices (978-1-0689589-1-5 ) slated for release before year end to promote Pancreatic Cancer advocacy and education.

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 [email protected].

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