Board of Directors
Jess Pearson
Board Chair
Having sought a VHL community (outside of my family) in Saskatchewan, Ontario and now Nova Scotia, I joined the Board in spring 2018 to connect with fellow warriors and their families. My family’s VHL pathway seems to follow the eyes, brain, spine and kidneys, with all of us having had brain surgery, various eye surgeries, trial drugs and years of MRIs. As a health professional I want to understand more about this disease and its processes; and as a patient I hope to create a Canadian VHL community for myself and all those who conquer this illness. I look forward to seeing what we can achieve!
Nicky Harder
Vice Chair
My VHL journey doesn’t begin with me but with my mom, Mary. She lost her battle to VHL at the age of 53. Soon after VHL became a part of my narrative as I went through multiple brain surgeries over the years. The journey continues with my son Lincoln who was diagnosed at 10 months old. Navigating this disease have proven to be complex and at times exhausting, but as warriors we continue on. I got involved with the CVHLA to to help foster awareness, drive forward research as well as advocate for and support warriors and caregivers throughout Canada.
Susan Anson
Treasurer
I have a family member who is a VHL Warrior, and I have witnessed the many challenges these Warrior’s face. I have a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and successfully developed a business in Canada to support capital (infrastructure) planning.
With experience in speaking at industry conferences across Canada as well as authoring numerous articles in industry publications, I look forward to using my business leadership skills to help support the Canadian VHL Alliance.
Lesley Mather
I am an innovative, strategic and accomplished creative communicator with over 20 years of experience in the public and private sectors in creative design, brand management and implementation, as well as project and resource management. Although my life hasn’t been directly impacted by VHL, it has been by other forms of cancer. I look forward to bringing my skill-set to the CVHLA Board of Directors with the intention of furthering their mission and vision.
Stephanie Chau
I am a Master’s student who is passionate in biomedical research, particularly in cancer. Having the opportunity to previously work with CVHLA through a community outreach project has taught me about rare diseases. This inspired me to learn more about VHL and encouraged me to join the CVHLA board to try to spread awareness, support research, and educate others as well as myself about how this disease affects VHL warriors. I look forward to helping further VHL research to try and find a cure to this disease.
Samantha Gravel
Secretary
I’ve spent my career working within non-profit and social enterprise organizations, focusing on initiatives that support education and equitable access to services and supports within community. I’m passionate about making a positive impact, often from behind the scenes. While I don’t have personal experience with VHL, my connection to VHL has given me a deeper understanding of the resilience and challenges faced by those living with chronic illness. I look forward to supporting the mission of the Canadian VHL Alliance and advocate for those affected by VHL.
William Persad
I am a third-year nursing student with a deep passion for oncology and supporting healthcare initiatives that improve patient outcomes and community well-being. Having experienced the loss of family members to cancer, I am driven to support others impacted by medical conditions. While my personal journey hasn’t intersected directly with VHL, I am tremendously grateful for the opportunity to join as a board member.
Darian Rogers-Sysak
Growing up, my mother lived and continues to live with VHL. Her experience has had a profound impact on my life and inspired my passion for supporting children and families through serious medical, and other life challenges. I hold a Master of Science in Pediatric Psychosocial Care and currently work in psychosocial oncology, where I support children and families through the psychological, social, and emotional impacts of cancer. I’m honoured to bring my personal connection to VHL, along with my academic and professional experience, to the CVHLA Board. I’m committed to advocating for greater VHL awareness and ensuring patients and their families receive the psychosocial support they deserve.