Origins
Brain Cancer Canada began with a simple question: What if, together, we can change outcomes for brain cancer patients?
In honour of Bernardo (Bernie) Anthony Scalisi - a son, brother, husband, and young father, who was diagnosed with brain cancer - the Scalisi-Caruso Family launched Brain Matters in 2015, to address the fundraising gap for primary malignant brain tumour research with the goal of transforming the standard of care.
Bernie bravely and remarkably fought brain cancer with courage, strength, and resilience. His journey inspired and continues to help patients and families across Canada in their own brain cancer experiences. Bernie passed away January 19, 2025.
Since 2015, with the tremendous support of Founding Sponsor, Scotia Wealth Management, the organization evolved into a national charity and is now known as Brain Cancer Canada.
The need for brain cancer research investment in Canada remains high. With the enduring support of community, Brain Cancer Canada has, as of 2024, raised over 3 million dollars, and directed funds to 25 tenacious research and technology initiatives across Canada.
Milestones
Community Impact & Financial Reports
Community Impact Reports
Financial Reports
Coming soon!
We are brain cancer warriors, parents who have lost their children, children who have lost their parents, spouses who have lost their partners, family members and caregivers who have rallied for their loved ones, and medical and research professionals who are chasing the cure for brain cancer.
With a diversity of skills ranging from public relations and marketing to law and engineering, our team is made up of 50+ volunteers from across Canada, the majority directly affected by brain cancer.
We are volunteer so that as much of every dollar raised can be directed to where it is needed the most.
Board of Directors
Angela Scalisi
Chair
Committed to level the playing field for people diagnosed with brain cancer in my brother’s memory, who passed away from Grade 4 Astrocytoma.
Anita Angelini
Vice-Chair
My husband, Filippo, passed away from Glioblastoma in 2020. For all brain cancer patients, I want to see advancements in treatment options.
Jessica Soares
Secretary
Honouring my late husband's memory by bringing hope, funding, and awareness to those affected by brain cancer, while accelerating research to improve outcomes.
Karina Davidzon
Treasurer
I'm on the board to help make a real difference, volunteer my skills, and support a cause I believe in.
Jackie Borkowski
Director
I joined BCC to advocate for brain cancer after losing my 4-year-old daughter Isabelle to DIPG/DMG in 2020.
Bruno Cunsolo
Director
As a founding member, brain cancer is especially close to my heart. My goal is to continue working towards finding a cure for this deadly disease, which is underfunded, has limited treatment options and a high mortality rate.
Ronald Davidzon
Director
As someone whose family has been affected by cancer, I am committed to advancing its cure and eradication.
Dr. Elvin de Araujo
Director
I aspire to serve as a bridge between brain cancer research and patient advocacy.
Marc Peeters
Director
I joined to drive change and progress in this urgent fight against one of the most devastating diseases affecting Canadians.
Carlos Pimentel
Director
Dedicated to raising funds in memory of my late brother, who passed away from glioblastoma (GBM).
Ambassadors & Volunteers
Ambassadors
Nazanin Afkhamiaghda
Michal Borkowski
Karen Binkley
Arjun Chaudhary
Lavan Chelvan
Marisa Cunsolo
Kaviya Devan
Stephanie Ducharme
Tammy Ellsworth
Anna Estrin
Kristin Fife
Iulia Grigore
Catherine Gulinao
Harpreet Jat
Daniel McDonald
Alice Narushevich
Maria Peragine
Brooke Roberts
Penelope Sairoglou
Amelia Semenak
Andrew Spinner
Waiza Syeda
Sydney Wisener
Engagement Ambassadors
Chloe Asselstine, Chair
Emily McIntosh
Sophie Michaud
Stephanie Morissette
Stuart Selby
Catherine Wreford
Volunteers
Basem Malak
Amanda Palumbo
Sara Palumbo