Pancreatic cancer doesn’t discriminate, and Canada’s healthcare system shouldn’t either.

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.

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Our Mission

Three people sit at a festive table adorned with holiday decorations, gingerbread, and gifts. The cozy space radiates hope.
Christopher, Heather and Bethany celebrate the holidays in a Gingerbread Greenhouse. (© 2024 Heather Cutler Foundation)

Our Mission Statement

Our Mission

At Heather Cutler Foundation, our mission is to honour the legacy of Heather Cutler by advocating for pancreatic cancer awareness, supporting groundbreaking research, and providing resources for those affected by this devastating disease.

We are committed to fostering a community of hope, strength, and resilience, where every voice is heard, and every effort counts in the fight against pancreatic cancer.

Our Vision

We envision a world where pancreatic cancer is no longer a death sentence but a manageable and curable condition. By raising awareness, funding research, and supporting patients and their families, we strive to transform the landscape of pancreatic cancer care and treatment.

Our ultimate goal is to see a significant increase in survival rates and a better quality of life for those affected by this disease.

Core Values

  1. Compassion: We approach our mission with empathy and understanding, recognizing the profound impact pancreatic cancer has on patients and their loved ones. Our initiatives are driven by a deep connection to other families affected by pancreatic cancer and a desire to provide comfort and support to those in need.
  2. Advocacy: We are dedicated to raising awareness about pancreatic cancer through education and outreach. By amplifying the voices of patients, survivors, and advocates, we aim to influence public policy and increase funding for research and treatment options.
  3. Innovation: We believe in the power of research and innovation to change the future of pancreatic cancer. By supporting cutting-edge research and clinical trials, we hope to discover new treatments and ultimately find a cure.
  4. Community: We are committed to building a strong, supportive community for those affected by pancreatic cancer. Through our events, resources, and online platforms, we create spaces where individuals can connect, share their stories, and find solace in knowing they are not alone.
  5. Integrity: We operate with transparency, accountability, and ethical practices in all our endeavors. Our commitment to honesty and integrity ensures that every donation and effort is used effectively to further our mission.

Our Goals

  1. Increase Awareness: We aim to educate the public about the symptoms, risks, and early detection of pancreatic cancer. Through campaigns, social media, and community events, we strive to spread knowledge and reduce the stigma associated with this disease.
  2. Support Research: By funding innovative research projects through our participation in events like Kicking PancreAS, we seek to advance the understanding of pancreatic cancer and develop new treatments. Our goal is to significantly improve survival rates and patient outcomes.
  3. Provide Resources: We offer a comprehensive range of resources for patients, caregivers, and their family and friends. From informational guides to support listings, our resources are designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and support they need to navigate their journey with pancreatic cancer.
  4. Advocate for Change: We work tirelessly to influence public awareness. By participating with other advocacy organizations and engaging with policymakers, we aim to create systemic change that benefits the pancreatic cancer community.
  5. Foster Community Engagement: Through events, volunteer opportunities, and online forums, we encourage individuals to get involved and make a difference. Our community engagement initiatives are designed to inspire action and foster a sense of solidarity among supporters.

How We Achieve Our Mission

  1. Social Media Campaigns: We conduct educational campaigns to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer, its symptoms, and the importance of early detection. These campaigns are aimed at the general public, healthcare professionals, and policymakers.
  2. Fundraising Events: We participate in various fundraising events, such as walks, runs, galas, and online fundraisers, to support our mission. These events not only raise funds but also bring the community together in a shared cause.
  3. Support Services: We point folks to a range of support services, including counseling, support groups, and informational resources, to help patients and their families cope with the challenges of pancreatic cancer. Support services are designed to provide emotional and practical assistance throughout their journey.
  4. Advocacy Efforts: We engage in advocacy efforts to influence public policy and secure increased funding for pancreatic cancer research. By working with lawmakers, other advocacy organizations, and the media, we aim to create a supportive environment for pancreatic cancer patients and their families.

Join Us

We invite you to join us in our mission to honor Heather Cutler's legacy and make a difference in the fight against pancreatic cancer. Whether through donations, volunteering, or participating in our events, your support is invaluable. Together, we can create a future where pancreatic cancer is a thing of the past and where hope and resilience prevail.

Thank you for being a part of our journey.

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