Message from the Executive Director

In September 2025, ACCESS achieved a significant milestone as a national network. We completed the review and approval of our full portfolio of work which includes 56 research projects and initiatives that address priorities touching on all aspects of the childhood cancer journey. By working as a network, we have strengthened multi-disciplinary collaborations across Canada which are accelerating research and its implementation in the care of children. We are supporting new ways of sharing knowledge and helping to amplify the perspectives of people with lived experience of childhood cancer. This fall, ACCESS is also starting conversations with policymakers in all levels of government to give voice to issues that matter to children and their families experiencing cancer. To learn more about our activities and outcomes, please read the recently released ACCESS Impact Report.

While this past year has been one of significant progress and growth for ACCESS, there is still a great deal of work to be done. I am pleased to share that the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) has granted ACCESS a no-cost extension to March 2027 to continue our work. This year-long extension will sustain our network’s momentum and provide time to complete the projects and initiatives already underway. It will also provide ACCESS with needed time to measure and communicate the collective impact of our work.

Our collective advocacy for the support of pediatric cancer research and equitable access for all children with cancer must continue, long after Childhood Cancer Awareness month has passed. Meaningful change happens through persistence, partnership and using our voices for those who are infrequently heard. In this month’s newsletter you can read more about the efforts of our dedicated childhood cancer advocates and discover ways you can help support ACCESS’ continued progress.

On behalf of our Executive, I extend my deepest gratitude to the ACCESS network – our partners, researchers, community advocates, and PWLE – for your unwavering commitment and leadership. Together, we are not just supporting children and families with pediatric cancer; we are building lasting change.