As we mark Cystic Fibrosis Canada's 65th anniversary in 2025, we celebrate the remarkable tale of what's possible when people unite behind a shared goal.
When we were founded in 1960 by CF parents, cystic fibrosis brought a devastating diagnosis: most children did not survive to adulthood.
Today, we have a treatment that has changed many people’s lives: they feel better and have more energy and fewer hospitalizations. In the past year we have successfully pushed for changes that have allowed even more people to access the treatment they need.
We also marked a new survival milestone: half of babies born with CF today will live beyond their 60th birthdays.
But it also means that half won’t.
That’s why our work to rewrite the cystic fibrosis story in Canada is not done. Yet.
In partnership with the CF community, we're fearlessly venturing into a new frontier to ensure our future progress mirrors the transformative change of our first 65 years.
Over the past year we have started to write our next chapter: one where everyone in Canada living with cystic fibrosis can have a full, healthy, and long life – a life without limits.
To this end, we have prepared our clinical trial network to be ready for gene therapy trials. We expanded our work with clinicians and our community to shape the future of cystic fibrosis care. We strengthened our mental health resources and centred the CF community throughout our work - including engaging parents of newly diagnosed children with CF in shaping our work.
Thank you to everyone who supported us last year, who connected with us and contributed in so many ways. We appreciate your trust in us to lead the way with and for the cystic fibrosis community in Canada.
Our next 65 years hold countless untold stories, and we won't rest until we achieve the ending we want. The ending we need.
Barbara M. Hill
Chair, Board of Directors
Kelly Grover
President and CEO
people in Canada are living with cystic fibrosis
people were newly diagnosed with cystic fibrosis last year
of CF diagnoses were made through newborn screening
of people living with cystic fibrosis have at least one copy of the most common gene mutation (F508del) that causes CF
the other 13% are affected by one of the 2,000+ rarer mutations causing CF
half of babies born with cystic fibrosis today are expected to celebrate their 62nd birthdays
*Based on data published in our Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Registry Annual Data Report for 2023, the most recent year for which data are available.
Up to
of people cannot benefit from CFTR modulators*
of people must travel more than 100km to receive care
visits were made to cystic fibrosis clinics
days spent in hospital
days of home IV treatments
people received organ transplants
of people had Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections
of adults had CF-related diabetes
Average age of death for a Canadian with cystic fibrosis over the last five years*
All statistics except * are based on data published in our Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Registry 2023 Annual Data Report, the most recent year for which data are available. Statistics marked with a * are from the Canadian cystic fibrosis registry.
Alexie, living with cystic fibrosis
Chanelle, living with cystic fibrosis
Trikafta is available for people with:
The most common mutation, F508del
152 rare mutations
152 rare mutations with mechanisms to provide access for other rare mutations
All CF mutations that may benefit
In early 2024, Trikafta had just been approved for children aged two to five with the most common CF-causing gene mutation, F508del – but not all public drug programs were providing access.
Together with our National Advocacy Network, our efforts throughout the year focused on public coverage of Trikafta for this age group and on broader access for people with rarer mutations. We met with politicians, bureaucrats and other decision-makers and influencers, and worked with our clinical trials network to provide strong evidence for broader and more affordable access.
Our results speak for themselves. Today, every jurisdiction funds Trikafta for those aged 2 and up with the most common CF mutation (F508del), and nearly all are funding it for people with one of the 152 rare CF mutations Health Canada approved for use in early 2024. While this is exciting progress, we know that access does not mean affordable access. We will continue to push for broad and affordable access to Trikafta, so everyone who needs it can reach it.
*Map reflects status of Trikafta availability at April 30, 2025.
Momentum is our research roadmap – our five-year plan for thoughtful investment that will accelerate the impact of CF research and unlock the next wave of improvements.
Aligned with this approach, our work in 2024/25 focused on knowledge and solutions for people who lack treatment options or have a higher burden of disease:
Originally established as a collaborative initiative between researchers in Canada and the United States, the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Registry has grown into one of the most comprehensive and longest-running CF registries in the world. It stands as the only nationwide database capturing clinical data on nearly everyone living with CF in Canada. Since 1973, people living with CF and CF clinics nationwide have participated in and contributed to the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Registry.
This vital resource captures real-world data to provide a population-level snapshot of cystic fibrosis in Canada. It includes demographic information like age and province/territory of residence, as well as genetic mutations and insights into health, therapy use, healthcare system utilization, complications, and transplantation.
We recently celebrated 50 years of collecting and reporting vital information that has shaped CF research, education, advocacy, and clinical care.
Keeping Canada at the forefront of CF clinical trials supports better access to new and emerging therapies. That’s why our work in 2024-25 included strengthening our network of clinical trial sites to conduct gene therapy trials, which offer hope for people who cannot benefit from CFTR modulators.
At the end of the year, three of 10 sites in our network were offering early-stage gene therapy trials to eligible patients – building expertise that will help these trials expand to other sites.
Gene therapy trials have a smaller population of eligible patients and they are complex and resource-intensive to run – but they represent an exciting area of innovation that could well be the future of CF treatment. These trials will be offered alongside others so that we are continuing to explore a range of potential treatment advancements to support the CF community.
The CF story has evolved dramatically in the past few years, and a one-size-fits-all solution is not the future for people affected by cystic fibrosis in Canada.
Until new solutions are found, some people will be sicker than others. Others will face diseases of aging while they live with CF. People’s needs will be different, and the care they receive at clinics must reflect this no matter where in the country they live.
Last year, we kicked off work with our clinical community and people affected by CF to create a new model and standard of care for people living with cystic fibrosis in Canada. Clinicians and people living with CF from every province are supporting this work through different advisory and steering committees.
This is a tremendous effort that will profoundly shape and improve the care people receive as their needs evolve.
To ensure our work stays relevant to the CF community in Canada, it’s essential that we’re attuned to and responding to the evolving and diverse community needs for information and support. We went about this in several ways last year:
In addition to our focus on impact for our CF community, we must ensure Cystic Fibrosis Canada is equipped to continue to deliver on our strategy for longer, healthier and better lives.
A diverse and talented team to inform and carry out our work is a priority for our organization – so receiving the 2024 Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures award from Waterstone Human Capital was a vote of confidence that we are on the right track.
We were proud to receive this honour. Our shared commitment at Cystic Fibrosis Canada to our values – bold, connected, inclusive and impactful – pays off for our staff, volunteers and partners. And most importantly, for our community.
The 65 Roses Gala was more than a fundraiser — it was a declaration of hope. We are incredibly grateful to gala committee members and sponsors, and to our dedicated volunteers and guests for coming together to honour the strength of the CF community. The gala was an unforgettable evening highlighted by inspiring speeches, captivating entertainment, and a lively auction. Your shared commitment to actions supporting the cystic fibrosis community continues to be a source of hope and transformation.
attendees
raised
Through their dedication and creativity, our incredible Change Makers – the community builders and fundraisers who plan and organize an impressive range of events across Canada– are transforming the future for people living with cystic fibrosis. We celebrated milestones like the 40th Anniversary of the Danny Gallivan Memorial Golf Tournament and the Regina Ride for the Breath of Life , which continue to make a lasting impact.
To support the efforts of these heroic fundraisers and many others, we enhanced the online fundraising tools available for our Change Makers and introduced new planning tools and fundraising resources. Whether hosting golf tournaments, community walks, or virtual challenges, Change Makers from coast to coast to coast are driving progress and positive change for people affected by cystic fibrosis in Canada.
events across Canada
million raised
The 2024 Decant Gala – Cheers to 10 Years was a remarkable celebration held on Saturday, May 11th, 2024, at Delta Hotels Toronto. It was a record-breaking evening, raising its highest total to date to support the cystic fibrosis community. The Fine Wine Auction hosted by Iron Gate was a standout success, contributing $182,000 to the total. Ben Mulroney’s exceptional emceeing and inspiring keynote speeches by Louise Taylor and Stephanie Stavros made the night unforgettable. Thank you for your unwavering support!
guests
raised
The 2024 Fusion – An Evening in Rome Gala took place on Saturday, October 19th, 2024, at Angus Glen Golf Club. Over the past 22 years, Fusion has raised more than $5.4 million for Cystic Fibrosis Canada, thanks to the unwavering support of donors, sponsors, and partners. This year’s Key To A Cure Donations alone contributed over $100,000. The evening featured a heartfelt keynote speech by Kelly Simpson Strike and her daughter Emily, who lives with cystic fibrosis.
guests
raised
In July 2024, we hosted classic and pop-up Lawn Summer Nights events across Canada and achieved a milestone with more than $5 million raised over its 14-year history!
These fun-filled nights not only support cystic fibrosis research and care but also foster a strong sense of community. Participants shared inspiring reflections on the joy of lawn bowling, connecting with longtime supporters, and returning year after year for a cause they deeply believe in.
locations
teams
participants
raised
On May 26, 2024, the 20th anniversary of the Walk to Make Cystic Fibrosis History brought together families, advocates, and supporters to raise awareness and funds. This year we introduced Walk Jr, where over 135 children raised more than $114,945, bringing the grand total raised from the Walk to an impressive $2.4 million!
Heartfelt testimonials highlighted the importance of ensuring all Canadians with cystic fibrosis, especially those with rare mutations, have access to breakthrough therapies. Thank you for 20 years of unwavering dedication to the CF community!
participants across Canada
raised
Face Off with CF Gala celebrated its 33rd year, raising a record-breaking $264,000 in 2025. Honorary chair and NHL player Ryan Nugent-Hopkins brought his magic to the event again, helping us celebrate another unforgettable night of giving in Edmonton.
years
raised in 2025
We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our corporate partners, whose generosity and commitment have played a pivotal role in driving real change for Canadians living with cystic fibrosis. The leadership of these organizations has demonstrated remarkable dedication, embedding a culture of giving that inspires action at every level. From strategic sponsorships to employee-driven fundraising initiatives, their contributions have had a profound and lasting impact on the community we serve. We especially acknowledge the enthusiasm and hard work of employees who not only raise vital funds but also bring energy, creativity, and heart to every campaign and event. Together, their collective efforts are transforming lives and creating meaningful change.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to donors in Cystic Fibrosis Canada’s Leadership Giving Circle—individual philanthropists and charitable foundations whose exceptional generosity and vision have been instrumental in driving our work forward. These dedicated supporters lead with compassion and a deep belief in the power of positive change for the cystic fibrosis community. Their significant contributions go far beyond financial support; they are partners in our mission, offering insight, vital resources, and unwavering encouragement. Through their leadership, we are empowered to go further in advancing treatment and care, and dream bigger for our community. Their impact is profound, and we are honored to recognize their enduring commitment to making a difference.
Arrell Family Foundation
The John & Ellie Voortman Charitable Foundation
Clint and Nancy Griffin
Sandra Tapper
Walmart Canada
Ronald Black
Jacqueline and Walter Voortman
Bayshore Foundation for Empowered Living
Sarah Gordon Sutherland Memorial Fund
John and Marlene Mason
The Charles H. Ivey Foundation
Françoys Levert
Sandy Gray
Banque Nationale Du Canada
Cougs Investments Ltd
JB Schultz Family Foundation
Whitecap Resources Inc
Louise Redekop
Anthony Quinn
Richard and Charlene Klassen
Ross Hopkins
Leona and Max Pinsky
Isaac and Judy Thau
Scott Doherty
The Louis & Harold Price Foundation
Éric Voyer
Valerie Archer
Owen and Elizabeth Bell-Santilly
Vincent Lee
Enterprise Mobility Foundation
W. Fay Versteegh Charitable Fund
Ron and Kim Anderson
Dori-Ann and George Stubos
Scott Johnson
Eleanor Carpen
Charles and Grace Thomson Designated Fund
Lynn Laird
Betty McIlroy
Dr Patrick McDonald
ES Fox Limited
Fondation Bergeron-Jetté
Lembit and Karen Janes
Les Placements Al-Vi Inc.
Mary Sanagan and Aaron Mittler
Nadir Electric Ltd.
Power Corporation of Canada
Canada Life
Reginald and Julie Smith
Van Allen Insurance Inc.
Shane Griffin
Mike Farwell and Jennifer Peacock
Laurie and Patrick Scissons
RBC
George Macri
Bob and Joan Lidington
Amielle Lake
Belron Canada
Leon's Furniture Limited
Trademan Family Foundation
William Bressmer
Marr Family Charitable Account
Gerald and Rita Schaefer
Drake Family Trust
Charles Sirois
FYidoctors / Visique Enhancing Life Foundation Flow Through Fund at
Calgary Foundation
Lynda Hedican and David Dutcyvich
Canadian Appliance Recycling Enterprise (CARE)
Rod and Gretchen Ziegler
Roland Laird
Doris L. Bruder Charitable Fund
Christiane Aupry
Burgundy Legacy Foundation
William Bamber
Brayden Irwin
David Watson
Brad and Nancy Kotush
Barbara Hill and Mike Canzoneri
Adele Rempel
Susan Dudar
Eric Roussel
Keri Johnston and Darin Renton
Frances Ostry
Claire Lalonde
Andrew and Marina Davies
Kimberley Camboia and Jordan Oxby
Gregory and Karen Fries
Jim and Bonnie Schultz
John Dungey
Maxime Laliberté
Douglas Miehm
Lyle Kerr
Karen and Greg Fleck
Daniel Lalonde
Pan-Oyler Foundation
Norah and William Marr
Amy and Bart Corbett
Butler Mortgage Inc
Congrégation des Soeurs Maristes (maison mère)
David Sawrey and Debra Carmont
Dominique Toupin
Eliane B Perreault
Eric T. Webster Foundation
Fondation Famille Bertrand
Fondation Famille Vachon
High River District Health Care Foundation
Horn Family Fund
Jean and Cynthia Scott Aucoin
Jim and Marilyn Blair
Jim Decksheimer
Leslie Raenden
Ocean Ridge Fisheries Limited
Robert and Carolyn Sankey
Ryan Black
Sean Murphy
Miles Nagamatsu
Spesinvest Inc.
The Longevity Company of Canada Inc.
The Stephen and Barbara Allatt Foundation
Timothy R. Kramer
Todd and Sharon Kelly
We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this list. If you have questions or corrections, or wish to join this list and play a leadership role in moving the cystic fibrosis community towards a brighter future, contact us at leadershipgiving@cysticfibrosis.ca.
We are deeply grateful to the organizations that power Cystic Fibrosis Canada’s signature fundraising events. Whether supporting one community or many, these committed sponsors provide both financial and in-kind contributions that help us stretch every donor dollar further. Their generosity fuels programs and initiatives that make a real difference for the CF community. Thank you for your unwavering commitment and belief in giving back!
American Iron and Metal (AIM)
Berkis LLP
BMO
Borden Ladner Gervais LLP (BLG)
Burgundy Asset Management Ltd.
CIBC Capital Markets
Connor, Clark & Lunn Private & Capital Ltd.
Deloitte Management Services LP
Dentons Canada LLP
Grant Thornton
Home Trust
Iron Gate Private Wine Management
Larivière et Massicotte, Pharmaciennes
LIUNA-Local 183
Nexus Investment Management Inc.
Odlum Brown Limited
RBC Wealth Management
Rogers Group Financial
Scotiabank
Team Group Management Corp.
The Hon. Margaret McCain
Thomas Technology Partners Inc
Trudell Medical International
Visscher Group of Companies
These listings include philanthropic contributions made directly to the organization. Please note these listings are not inclusive of gifts in kind, community fundraising, or community event sponsorship. If you wish to learn more about partnering with CF Canada or recognition, please contact communityinvestment@cysticfibrosis.ca
Volunteering is a win-win for us all! By giving their time and talents, volunteers foster positive change in the lives of families affected by cystic fibrosis while building new relationships, sharing their expertise and expanding their professional networks.
A special thank-you and congratulations to the 69 community members who received the King Charles III Coronation Medal or one of Cystic Fibrosis Canada’s Community Awards. These distinguished honours celebrate individuals and groups whose dedication, leadership, and generosity have helped to advance progress in cystic fibrosis research, care, and advocacy.
Agatha Bourassa
Anne-Marie Beausoleil
Beth Vanstone
Brenda Chambers-Ivey
Carole Moisan
Caroline Rigutto
Cassidy Evans
Cheryl Corcoran
Chris Black
Claude Provencher
Daniel Dettmers
Daniel Leblanc
Dave Anderson
David Watson
Donna Summerhayes
Doug Summerhayes
Elizabeth Graham
Hailey Laxer
Ian Thompson
Jean Hodgins
Jean-Sebastien Ferron
Julie Saucier
Karen Fries
Karen McCulloch
Kim Wood
Leona Pinsky
Lisette Tremblay
Lorna McEwan
Macrina Perron
Mark Shopland
Megan Parker
Mitch Lepage
Nancy Kotush
Paige Shemilt
Patti Tweed
Rita Steiner
Rod Brind'Amour
Ron Anderson
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins
Stacy Hipkin
Stephanie Fryers
Stephanie Stavros
Tammy Strong
Teresa Weger
Teri Lang (posthumously)
Tony Arrell
Twyla McDougall
Valérie Tremblay
Amanda Bartels, Leadership in Advocacy Award
Gabrielle Phaneuf, Eva Markvoort Award
Kin Canada, National Champion Award
Lauren Clift, Pamela Summerhayes Award
The Robbie International Soccer Tournament, Beyond Limits Award
The Czajkowsky Family, Céline Award – Ontario Region
Project Trident, Change Maker of the Year Award – Québec Region
David Graham, Change Maker of the Year Award – Ontario Region
Queen City Eagle Riders, Financial Impact Award – Western Region
Emily Lyons, Financial Impact Award – Ontario Region
Earl Tripp, Financial Impact Award – Atlantic Region
Erin Dumville – Julia – Young Philanthropist Award - Atlantic Region
The McIntyre Family, Mila Mulroney Award – Western Region
The Arthrell Family, Mila Mulroney Award – Ontario Region
Les Grenouilles, Mila Mulroney Award – Québec Region
The Richards Family, Mila Mulroney Award – Atlantic Region
John Windwick, Volunteer Impact Award – Western Region
Chad Larmond, Volunteer Impact Award – Ontario Region
Sienna Kras, Youth Impact Award – Western Region
Katrina Davis, Youth Impact Award – Ontario Region
Benjamin Pérusse, Youth Impact Award – Québec Region
Thank you to our monthly donors who provide a regular infusion of hope for every person affected by cystic fibrosis in Canada. Your consistent generosity creates sustained support for ongoing progress to reduce the burden of cystic fibrosis.
A brighter future for families affected by cystic fibrosis is at the heart of Erik and Birthe Andersen’s legacy.
The couple moved to Canada from Denmark in the 1950s and built a life together filled with love and purpose – but also heartbreak. Their daughters, Elisabeth and Esther, were both diagnosed with CF and passed away at the ages of three and 15, respectively.
Not wanting any other family to experience such profound loss, Erik and Birthe made supporting Cystic Fibrosis Canada a focus. They became monthly donors and after Erik passed away in 2009, Birthe continued the family’s support.
The Andersen’s legacy lives on through the Erik and Birthe Andersen Senior Scientist Award, created by Cystic Fibrosis Canada in recognition of the planned gift in their will. By supporting innovative research, this award honours the Andersen’s vision of a future where no family loses a loved one to cystic fibrosis.
Thank you to all of our legacy donors for planning a gift that will help future generations live longer and fuller lives with cystic fibrosis.
That's why we need you by our side now more than ever.
Together, we can help everyone in Canada’s cystic fibrosis community achieve a life without limits.
Buoyed by the progress of the past 65 years, let’s make the next 65 years not just the end of the cystic fibrosis story, but the new beginning that everyone in Canada’s cystic fibrosis community deserves.
Our Board of Directors guides the strategic direction of Cystic Fibrosis Canada to support Canadians living with cystic fibrosis in the most effective ways. As leadership volunteers, they have a wide range of personal and professional expertise.
Barbara M. Hill
Robert Deane, Vice Chair
John Bennett
Karen Corraini
Kathryn Deuchars
Marie-Pier Emery
Adam Gordon*
Vincent Hamel
Chelsea Jalloh
Françoys Levert
Aleka MacLellan
Stephen McCourt**
Kimberly Nemeth*
Stephanie Nerlich
Robert Sankey**
Eric Saumure*
Tim Trussell
*Term began April 26, 2024
**Term ended April 26, 2024
Cystic Fibrosis Canada is fully committed to transparency and accountability of financial information. We remain in a favourable financial position as we continue to strategically invest generous donor dollars into vital cystic fibrosis research and care, to ensure donations achieve the greatest impact.
Revenue | 2025 | 2024 |
---|---|---|
Community events | 6,909 | 7,345 |
Annual giving | 1,826 | 2,076 |
Leadership gifts and sponsorship | 1,496 | 1,617 |
Kin Canada | 548 | 566 |
Other | 1,353 | 1,055 |
Royalties | 5 | 44 |
Bequests | 2,347 | 795 |
Total | 14,484 | 13,498 |
Less direct fundraising costs | 3,156 | 3,133 |
Net fundraising revenue | 11,328 | 10,365 |
Program | 2025 | 2024 |
---|---|---|
Research | 4,056 | 2,935 |
Healthcare | 1,290 | 1,341 |
Community engagement | 1,794 | 1,832 |
Advocacy | 583 | 754 |
Other | 11 | 59 |
Total | 7,734 | 6,921 |
Other | 2025 | 2024 |
---|---|---|
Administration | 1,955 | 2,204 |
Fundraising | 1,556 | 1,442 |
Total | 3,511 | 3,646 |
Excess (deficiency) of revenue over expenses before the undernoted | 83 | (202) |
Investment income (loss) | 2025 | 2024 |
---|---|---|
Realized gains on investments | 361 | 374 |
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on investments | 126 | (2) |
Total | 487 | 372 |
Excess of revenue over expenses | 570 | 170 |
Assets | 2025 | 2024 |
---|---|---|
Current Assets | ||
Cash and equivalents | 8,433 | 8,056 |
Short-term investments | 1,337 | 1,458 |
Receivables and other assets | 955 | 1,296 |
Total | 10,725 | 10,810 |
Contributions receivable | 182 | 161 |
Long-term investments | 4,694 | 4,407 |
Capital assets | 612 | 688 |
Total | 16,213 | 16,066 |
Liabilities and Net Assets | 2025 | 2024 |
---|---|---|
Current liabilities | ||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 511 | 693 |
Deferred revenue | 712 | 850 |
Total | 1,223 | 1,543 |
Long-term liabilities | 798 | 901 |
Net Assets | ||
Endowment | 94 | 94 |
Internally restricted for research and healthcare | 2,704 | 2,769 |
Invested in capital assets | 230 | 208 |
Internally reserved for strategic impact fund | 1,500 | - |
Unrestricted | 9,664 | 10,551 |
Total | 16,213 | 16,066 |
Endowment | Internally restricted for research and clinics | Invested in capital assets | Internally reserved for strategic impact fund | Unrestricted | 2025 Total | 2024 Total | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Net assets, beginning of year | 94 | 2,769 | 208 | - | 10,551 | 13,622 | 13,452 |
Excess of revenue over expenses | - | - | (66) | - | 636 | 570 | 170 |
Investment in capital assets | - | - | 88 | - | (88) | - | - |
Transfer between funds | - | (65) | - | 1,500 | (1,435) | - | - |
Net assets, end of year | 94 | 2,704 | 230 | 1,500 | 9,664 | 14,192 | 13,622 |
Complete audited financial statements are available on our website at cysticfibrosis.ca.
Donate today and help us build a future where everyone with cystic fibrosis can live without limits.
Cystic Fibrosis Canada
20 Eglinton Ave West, Suite 1305
Toronto, Ontario, M4R 1K8
info@cysticfibrosis.ca
Vision: To live fully, beyond the limits of cystic fibrosis.
Mission: To act boldly for all Canadians living with cystic fibrosis so they can live longer, healthier, fuller lives.