Our Patient Advocacy Committee (PAC) brings together the expertise of patient organizations and advocates across a wide spectrum of disease areas that make their constituents vulnerable to infectious disease and other health conditions. Their insights and perspectives guide our overall mission of advocating for a world in which immunocompromised people living in Canada have timely access to immunizations and therapeutics and can thrive in safer, more inclusive communities.
Charles has received both a heart and kidney transplant, giving him firsthand experience with the challenges of managing complex health needs. Motivated to give back, he advocates for the immunocompromised community by sharing his story, raising awareness about organ and tissue donation, supporting transplant research, and promoting access to treatments.
Derek is a double-lung transplant recipient whose lived experience drives his advocacy for immunocompromised populations at the federal, provincial, and health system levels. Combining decades of leadership experience with active volunteer work and governance roles, they champion policies that improve healthcare delivery, patient outcomes, and equitable access to care.
Jackie is President, CEO, and Co-founder of the Canadian Cancer Survivor Network, bringing decades of leadership and advocacy experience to advance care, support, and quality of life for patients and survivors across Canada. By bringing together patients, caregivers, and health professionals, she turns insight and experience into action that strengthens cancer care and amplifies the voices of those affected.
Jon brings decades of leadership and lived experience with Granulomatosis with Polyangilitis (GPA) to his advocacy for the immunocompromised community. Through his work with Vasculitis Foundation Canada, he advances patient education, supports research, and champions equitable access to therapies for those living with rare autoimmune conditions.
Raymond is a two-time cancer survivor whose experiences inspire his commitment to supporting Canadians affected by chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). As Board Chair of CLL Canada and facilitator of the Quebec CLL Support Group, he champions education, community connection, and access to reliable information for patients and caregivers.
Susan is a kidney transplant recipient whose personal and family experiences with a genetic kidney disease have fueled her dedication to helping others. She co-created the Transplant Ambassador Program and leads The Kidney Patient and Donor Alliance Canada, connecting patients and donors, supporting research, and advocating for improved kidney care overall and better access to kidney transplants across Canada.
Whiteney is a rare disease patient whose experiences guide her work as Executive Director of Immunity Canada, focusing on patient and stakeholder engagement. She serves on multiple boards and committees, including Canada’s Drug Agency National Advisory Committee on Newborn Screening and the International Patient Organization for Primary Immunodeficiency (IPOPI), advocating for patients and strengthening the rare disease community.