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
Director, Contributor
Christopher is both the founder and a regular contributor of Team Heather and the Heather Cutler Foundation. He is also a registered publisher and SOCAN member. Christopher attended language programs in both Tokyo, Japan and National Central University in Taiwan and is currently an Asian Studies major.
Languages Spoken:
English, Japanese, Mandarin (Chinese)
Barry Cutler
Director
Barry Cutler is a Director at The Heather Cutler Foundation, leveraging his entrepreneurial background to support the organization’s mission of advancing pancreatic cancer care. A retired barber and former small business owner, Barry successfully founded and managed Straight Edge Barbers, gaining valuable experience in operations, customer service, and team management.
Bethany
Director
Bethany is a graduate of Memorial University of Newfoundland.
Languages Spoken:
English, French
Deanne Matsushima
Director
Deanne is a hawaii-born Japanese- American.
Languages Spoken:
English, Japanese
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.
- ✍️ Guest Authors: We welcome guest authors, especially those living with pancreatic cancer, to share their stories and experiences, fostering a supportive and informative community.
The Heather Cutler Foundation
Team Heather
7 Osmond Place
Mount Pearl, Newfoundland
A1N 4L2
Canada
Business Information
Corporate Registry Number: 1643633-1
Business Number: 743014227
ISBN Prefix: 978-1-068
DUNS Number: 243328166
Incorporation Date: 2024-10-11
Registered under the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act
Purpose
The Heather Cutler Foundation is committed to providing relief, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by pancreatic cancer. Key objectives include:
Relieve Suffering: Offer comprehensive support programs to alleviate the physical, emotional, and financial burdens of patients and their families.
Advance Education: Promote awareness about symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options to foster early detection and better management strategies.
Promote Health: Advocate for healthcare rights, facilitate access to services, and build a supportive community for patients and families.
Engage the Community: Mobilize efforts to increase access to care and reduce interprovincial disparities in clinical trials and treatment.
Contact Information
Main Line: +1 (844) 665-5137
General Inquiries: [email protected]
Publication Inquiries: [email protected]
Get Involved
We invite you to join us on this journey. Whether you are a patient, a caregiver, a medical professional, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, your involvement and support are invaluable. Together, we can honour Heather’s legacy and make a meaningful impact in the fight against pancreatic cancer.
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.
Newsroom
Explore our latest updates, announcements, and press releases to stay informed about our mission and progress.
