As we celebrate the social workers who make a difference in the brain tumour community and beyond, we’d like to recognize the contributions of our very own Sarah Rogers.

Sarah has led the advocacy portfolio at Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada since 2021. Working closely with BTFC’s CEO and advocacy committee, Sarah ensures that the advocacy priorities of the organization are carried out appropriately, ethically, and with the support and input of the brain tumour community.

Sarah has driven the success of several of BTFC’s most impactful advocacy initiatives, by reaching out to government representatives and facilitating meetings that advocate for patient, caregiver and family needs; participating in drug reimbursement reviews; collaborating on health technology assessment (HTA) submissions and studies; and co-authoring associated journal articles.

Most recently, Sarah co-authored an article in the Neuro-oncology Practice Journal, which aims to align advocacy efforts for the brain tumour community across the globe.

“There’s a lot of variance from country to country, in terms of advocacy efforts,” Sarah says. “The hope is that the article will be a justification piece when going to government stakeholders, and will help to improve the experience for brain tumour patients and their families, no matter where they are.”

Advocating for advocacy

Advocacy is important, Sarah explains, on many levels.

“On a personal level, self-advocacy can include preparing for your appointments by educating yourself and your support systems, as well as communicating your needs frequently and honestly in order to ensure your rights as a patient are met and any decisions made are informed,” Sarah says.

“Advocating for system-level change, such as equitable access to drugs and treatments, ensures patients receive the highest quality health care that meets their individual needs and fits within their care goals,” she adds.

Starting out

Sarah started out studying nutrition and family studies, earning her degree from Brescia University College in London, Ont. From there, she applied to the social work program at King’s University College, also in London, Ont.

“I felt like I had finally found my niche,” Sarah says. “I had always been interested in system-level issues and using advocacy as a tool for change, so when I received an offer to complete my fourth-year placement at BTFC, I was so grateful to have the opportunity to make a difference in the brain tumour community. This work is close to my heart and gives me hope.”

About Sarah

Outside of work, you might find Sarah sleeping under the stars in Algonquin Provincial Park or Tobermory, Ont. Hiking and camping with her family tops her list of favourite things to do, though she’s also become a DIY pro in the last two years she’s spent renovating her home.

Thank you, Sarah, for all you do! We at BTFC, and the brain tumour community, are grateful for you.