Christine McIver
Founder and Chief Executive Officer
I am the luckiest person in the world. I am passionate about my job and I am able to make everyday a testament to my son’s memory, while helping other parents and kids affected by cancer.
I fill my days with policy, process and financial oversight while being the cheerleader of our staff, volunteers and donors and encouraging them to dream big! I dream of a day where childhood cancer is a memory.
I embrace change, love the busy, dynamic pace of our office and lead the best team of staff any CEO would be proud of. I work for the Board, the kids and everyone who volunteers, donates or sponsors Kids Cancer Care. YOU are the reason I get up in the morning. I am rewarded every day in smiles, stories and the joy that fulfilling our mission brings.
Fun Facts
- What’s your camp name? Crazy Bear.
- What’s your favorite ice cream topping? Gummy Bears.
- Best read?The Lovely Bones or whatever is on my bedside table.
Linda Baur
Camp Kindle Rental and Office Coordinator
I’m the Camp Kindle rental and office coordinator! I reply to rental inquiries, booking groups, arrange tours, help with marketing, and customer service at Camp Kindle. I also help with reception duties such as answering phones, greeting and directing guests, replying to mail and the fun stuff like filing and organizing!
When I arrived at Camp Kindle for my first interview, I felt the positive vibe and energy of this beautiful place! It is such a peaceful environment right in the middle of Mother Nature. Being able to help children and families to enjoy a positive experience, seeing the smiles and hearing the giggles of the kids enjoying themselves makes my heart smile!
I’m a volunteer with the local fire department, Cremona & District Emergency Services. As the fire prevention officer, I visit the school regularly to teach fire safety. I have always enjoyed this and the feeling I get when they understand and remember the things I teach. I believe my experiences at Camp Kindle will be equal to this.
Fun Facts
- What’s your favourite read?Stephen King Novels
- Where is your favourite movie? The Sound Of Music
- What’s your favourite meal? Pasta...any kind of pasta.
Kataryna (Katie) Bowman
I help design and implement many different types of camp programs. I manage our staff team and host groups coming out to visit the camp and make sure they have anything they need to make their visit as amazing as possible. I love working with the families and getting to connect with the kids. My mother passed away from cancer when I was 14 so it’s quite meaningful for me to help other people affected by cancer in whatever ways they need, whether it’s a space to talk about the experience or time to just have fun. This is my fourth year working at Camp Kindle. I worked here first in 2019 as a Camp Counsellor and Lifeguard, then in 2021 as a Camp Staff, and then in 2022 as a Senior Staff.
Fun Facts
- Favourite Movie - Dead Poets Society
- Favourite Meal - Palak Paneer and Rice
- Hometown - Dufresne, Manitoba
Kylie Bradbury
Volunteer Coordinator
Volunteers are inspiring and incredible people. As the volunteer coordinator, I am fortunate to recruit, train, and work with an amazing group of dynamic and generous individuals who donate their time and energy to supporting all that we do at Kids Cancer Care. I am passionate about ensuring that our volunteers are set up for success and recognized for all their hard work. I also love that I get to engage with all of our fabulous staff teams as our volunteers help out in all areas of our organization from our kid and family programming to events and fundraising. Kids Cancer Care is a very dynamic and creative place to work.
Fun Facts
- Camp name - Chinook
- Favourite movie - Spirited Away
- Favourite meal - Sushi and bubble tea.
Tara Brown
Manager of Information Systems and Databases
I have been involved with Kids Cancer Care since 2009, first as a family, then as a volunteer, now as an employee. I truly am living my dream by working at Kids Cancer Care. I love my position as manager of information systems and databases. I get to deal with both tech and gifting, which is a great balance.
Our only child Alexander was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour in 2009. After ten months of treatment, he passed away. He was two.
Alexander was the 36th child in the world to be diagnosed with ETMR (embryonal tumour with multilayered rosettes). We donated his brain and tumour to what is now the Kids Cancer Care Biostorage at the University of Calgary. Overseen by Dr. Jennifer Chan, the Kids Cancer Care Chair in Pediatric Oncology Research, this facility provides researchers across the globe with live blood, tissue and cancer cell samples.Thanks to Alexander's gift, U of C researchers were able to create the world's first cell line for ETMR, enabling researchers around the world to study this rare cancer for the first time.
I believe Alexander was brought here to help other children through his cell line and to give me my life purpose. For 26 years I worked as an aircraft maintenance engineer, but now my purpose is to help kids with cancer.
Fun Facts
- Why is your hair blue? Blue was Alexander’s favourite colour. My hair has been blue since 2010.
- What is your camp name? Blue.
- What is your favourite travel destination?The Westside of Oahu (Waianae Coast). This is where Alexander had his wish trip and where put his ashes.
Carolina Chamorro Vina
PEER Program Specialist
I oversee the Pediatric cancer patients and survivors Engaging in Exercise for Recovery (PEER) program. Along with some great volunteers that come from kinesiology, nursing, public health and medical school backgrounds, I supervise this wonderful exercise program for kids and teens affected by cancer.
Our program provides kids the opportunity to exercise while having fun in a safe environment.
The best part of my work is the fact that we give the kids the capacity to be kids again. Every smile, every motor, fitness or social improvement that I observe in the kids are invaluable treasures that I preserve.
In Spain, back in 2004, I started to research the effects of exercise in children with cancer. We did a 16 week exercise program with kids on treatment. At the end of the program, the kids were interviewed. A journalist asked a seven-year-old boy what he enjoyed most about the exercise program. He replied “Now I can play with my sister without getting tired.” In that moment, I was the happiest person in the world. Exercise is a great way to counteract the side effects of treatment, improve quality of life and facilitate the reintegration of kids affected by cancer in the community. My dream is to see exercise become part of the standard care in every child with cancer.
I love working for Kids Cancer Care because everyone shares a passion for advocating for improving the quality of life of children affected by cancer and their families. It is an inspiring team to be a part of.
Fun Facts
- Where is your hometown? Montevideo, Uruguay.
- What’s your favorite ice cream topping?Dulce de Leche with chocolate chips and lemon.
- What is your favourite meal? Empanadas.
Sandra Cicman
Education Support Specialist
What a joy it is to be part of the Kids Cancer Care team! Serving as an Education Support Specialist affords me with opportunities to connect, co-learn and grow with others – is there anything more exciting and rewarding than that?
My involvement with the Education Support Programs at Kids Cancer Care allows me to utilize the skills and experience I have gained working in the areas of special education, family support, program development, and volunteer leadership to assist children with cancer-related learning issues and encourage families. However, I'm sure I'll be the one who will end up learning the most from my interactions with families, children, volunteers, and teammates.
I believe learning is most successful when it is rooted in human connection, relationships, and fun.
Looking forward to learning together with you, as part of the Kids Cancer Care community!
Fun Facts
- Camp Name - Harmony
- Favourite Movie - A Beautiful Mind
- Hometown - Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Gail Corbett
Director of Marketing and Communications
I love words. Finding the right word while writing or stumbling over a beautiful turn of phrase while reading instills in me a deep sense of peace. Something in the universe just seems to line up when words work.
I spend a good part of my days writing — newsletters, annual reports, brochures, media releases, advertising copy, fundraising appeals, speaking notes, web content. The other part of my days, I spend planning and strategizing, scheduling and executing mar-comm plans. I feel fortunate because I can’t think of a worthier cause to work for. The cancer journeys these kids experience are both horrific and heroic. And, what our champions (donors, sponsors, partners, shave hosts, event participants and volunteers) do to transform these young lives both humbles and inspires me. Kids Cancer Care is a life-affirming place to work for and it daily rekindles my faith in humanity. Sharing stories of our vulnerability, our courage, our love and our hope—our wonderful and flawed humanity—is what living is all about.
Fun Facts
- What’s something quirky about yourself?I can distort my tongue and vocal cords to mimic the hum of a dove or the chirp of a cricket with a hangover.
- Best read?There are so many! But I would have to say that my all-time favourite read has to be Dostoevsky’s Brothers Karamazov.
- What’s your camp name? Lotus.
Suzanne Cross-Fong
Family Engagement Coordinator
As the family engagement coordinator, I have the privilege of being one of the primary contacts for children and families that come to Kids Cancer Care. I get to introduce families to the amazing programs and services offered here, including Camp Kindle. Together we will assess your needs and connect you with our staff or professionals in the community.
In my 25+ years as a registered social worker, I am constantly amazed at the resilience and strength shown by the children that I have worked with. I am honored to be a part of the team at Kids Cancer Care and passionate about supporting families. I hope to speak with you soon!
Fun Facts
- Where's your hometown?Virden, Manitoba
- What’s your favorite ice cream flavour?Almond Espresso
- Something quirky about you?I'm fascinated by the weather and always know the forecast!
James Foster
Director, Outreach
As the Director of Outreach, I oversee KCC’s outreach programs including the “PEER” Pediatric Exercise Program, Child Life, Family Engagement, Nursing, Education Support, Recreation, and Volunteer programs. I was first introduced to Kids Cancer Care in the early 2000s when my son participated in the Shave Your Lid for a Kid program and was inspired by the Foundation's mission. My passion is helping people reach their potential and I am delighted to work with such a talented group of people who are deeply committed to helping children and families affected by cancer.
Fun Facts
- Camp Name - Eagle
- Favourite Movie - Field of Dreams
- Favourite Destination - My wife and I have a bucket list to visit all 30 major league baseball stadiums. We have seen a game in 23 stadiums thus far so I guess my favourite travel destination would be the remaining 7 cities we have yet to catch a game in.
Kaity Doiron
Outreach Coordinator
In my role as outreach coordinator, I create psychosocial supports for kids and families facing childhood cancer through our year-round recreational and wellness programming. Before moving into Calgary to work at the Kids Cancer Care office, I spent two lovely seasons at Camp Kindle, where I was fondly nicknamed Moo!
Working in city has me supporting the amazing teens in our Teen Leadership Program and youngsters and families in our kid programs such as Halloween Howler, A Christmas Carol. I also provide programming support to the revenue development team at some of our fundraising events such as the High Hopes Challenge. The connection and growth I get from working with these kids and families always fill up my cup.
Fun Facts
- What’s your favourite travel destination? Alaska.
- What is something quirky about you? I have an addiction to purchasing organizational items.
- What’s something on your bucket list? High five a stranger at the PERFECT moment.
Aren Godberson
Development Associate - Community Relations
As the Community Relations Development Associate, I am responsible for all of our Can Do events and fundraisers. I work directly with the community to facilitate fundraising in all ways, shapes, and forms. I was lucky enough to start with Kids Cancer Care as a volunteer. Volunteering made me fall in love with the people, the kids, and all the amazing things the organization does for the community.
I always hoped I could get involved full-time, and now that wish has come true. Kids Cancer Care is a very special team with an even more special collective purpose, I couldn't be more excited to be a part of it all.
Fun Facts
- Favourite Ice-cream flavour - Mint Chip
- Hometown - Airdrie, Alberta
- Spirit Aminal - Eagle
Ailsa Fallows
Nurse Coordinator
As Nurse Coordinator, my primary role is to facilitate the coordination and management of medical practices across Kids Cancer Care and Camp Kindle. I will be working directly with the Camp Kindle medical personnel to ensure the health and safety of campers, volunteers, and nurses. I am passionate about providing the best care possible and ensuring a safe and fun environment! I feel privileged to have the opportunity to work with such an amazing group of individuals and families.
I love to learn! I am excited to learn from others about their experiences with Kids Cancer Care and apply them to my own life. To be able to be part of an organization that is dedicated to helping young people and their families navigate their cancer journeys is such an honour.
Fun Facts
- What's your camp name? Salsa
- What's your favorite travel destination?I've never been to but I'd love to go to Greece
- Where's your hometown? Reading, England (but grew up in Calgary)
Rae Fehr
Manager of Annual and Legacy Giving
My role at Kids Cancer Care is the Annual & Legacy Giving Specialist and I have the pleasure of developing long-term relationships with our annual, monthly, and legacy donors. I’m thrilled to be a part of an amazing team at Kids Cancer Care who are all so devoted to helping children and their families manage through such difficult and challenging times.
I have three incredible daughters who keep me very busy and I’m a sports fanatic. I particularly enjoy the NFL season and my favorite team is the Dallas Cowboys. I recently learned my spirit animal is the butterfly of which symbolizes change and transformation, as well as finding joy and lightness of being. Who would have known.
Fun Facts
- Favourite Movie - Field of Dreams
- Favourite Travel Destination - Whitefish, Montana
- Your Spirit Animal - Butterfly
Leslie Friesen
Education Support Specialist
I love learning about learning! I love brain research, the study of brain plasticity and watching all those magical moments when kids discover something new! Learning and hope, to me, are two things that go hand in hand.
As an education support specialist at Kids Cancer Care, I get to help our families by matching them with our volunteer tutors. First, I connect with our families to understand the learning and educational needs of their kids. Then I match them with our amazing volunteer tutors who I support and guide throughout the year. Finally, I check in all along the way for ideas on how we can grow the tutoring program to better serve our families.
I am thrilled to be working at Kids Cancer Care! My favourite things are my four kids, my husband, my puppy and my job. Having a daughter go through brain cancer and six full months of in-hospital treatment and a long ongoing recovery, I know first-hand how Kids Cancer Care can bring joy to the journey. Our family’s experience with cancer and Kids Cancer Care taught us that good things and hard things are not opposites. Rich lives are grown out of pain and joy intermingled.
Fun Facts
- What’s your favourite ice cream?Chocolate peanut butter on a cold day or creamsicle on a hot day.
- What is your favourite travel destination? Any of the Hawaiian islands.
- What’s your favourite movie? Shadowlands, the story of C.S. Lewis and the love of his life Joy Davidman. Some of my favourite reads are his books from the Narnia series.
Richard Kruger
Senior Accountant and Analyst
As a Senior Accountant and Analyst, I am responsible for the proper functioning of revenue processes and budgets, as well as ensuring accuracy and strong internal controls in financial reporting. Together, we strive to be good stewards of the financial resources that our generous volunteers and donors have entrusted to the Kids Cancer Care Foundation.
I am excited to be a part of the gifted team at Kids Cancer Care and to support the efforts of my colleagues who make a tangible, meaningful impact in the lives of kids and families affected by cancer.
Fun Facts
- Favourite Movie - The Fugitive
- Favourite Travel Destination - Arizona
- Spirit Animal - The Bear
Kris Lashmore
Maintenance Manager - Camp Kindle
I love working for Kids Cancer Care at Camp Kindle. Kids Cancer Care serves the most amazing kids! Seeing them have such a great time at camp, makes me want to work even harder to make the camp perfect for them. Working for the Kids Cancer Care gives me great fulfillment.
I am the maintenance manager at Camp Kindle. We always have projects on the go; they range from fencing, solar lighting, building pathways, cleaning up the forested areas so we have more usable space and much more. We also mow grass and shovel snow!
Fun Facts
- What’s your favorite ice cream topping?My favorite ice cream topping is hot fudge, but orange crush floats are my favorite way to have ice cream.
- Cats or dogs?Dogs are my choice of pet. I have Australian shepherds.
- What’s something on your bucket list? A couple of things on my bucket list are riding my horse in the ocean and along the beach, somewhere warm of course. I would also like to spend a new years eve in New York and be part of the count down.
Candice McCarthy
Development Associate
As development associate of donor relations and marketing, I have an incredibly fulfilling job. I research and write grants, steward donors, help coordinate the High Hopes Challenge, the Big Brave and provide support to other fundraising events. I love my work here because I get to be part of a team that collectively makes a big difference in the lives of very special children and their families.
Fun Facts
- What’s your camp name? Chips.
- Where is your hometown? Las Vegas, Nevada.
- What’s your favourite meal? All things Mexican. I'm obsessed with the food, culture and music of Mexico.
Cheri McDowell
Payroll and Accounting Specialist
I am excited to work for Kids Cancer Care because it is an amazing group of people to work with and they are doing incredible things for children.
When I am not typing away at a computer, I love to go camping with my family, gardening, and working on large cross-stitch projects!
Fun Facts
- What is your favourite ice cream?Green Tea!
- What is your favourite meal?Dutch Curry with chicken.
- Where is your home town?Calgary, born and raised!
Rachel McInnes
Education Program Coordinator
I’m so excited to be working as the Education Program Coordinator here at Kids Cancer Care. My work consists of supporting the Tutoring Program alongside the rest of the amazing Education Support Team, coordinating the Derek Wandzura Memorial Scholarship Program, and facilitating the Family Education Support Program.
I have been very fortunate to be a PEER volunteer for the past couple of years. Through this therapeutic exercise program, I have come to know some families and share in their journeys, which I feel is an incredible privilege. I have also come to know the kind and impactful culture here at Kids Cancer Care. I am so excited to be a part of and add to this culture as the Education Program Coordinator, and continue to connect with kiddos, their families, and the volunteers.
Fun Facts
- Favourite movie?Mama Mia
- Favourite read?Over the Boards by Hayley Wickenheiser
- What’s your favourite travel destination?Austrailia! Western Austrailia specifically has a special place in my heart as I did a six-month exchange in Perth in 2018.
Genine Neufeld
Director of Philanthropy
I have the privilege of connecting generous people, who want to make the world a better place, with the passionate work of Kids Cancer Care. Our donors fund programs that are vital to helping kids and families survive and thrive despite cancer. And it couldn’t happen without an amazing team of fundraisers who go above and beyond every day to create the bridge that empowers donors to support our work. I’m very proud to be part of the amazing Kids Cancer Care team!
Our team is creative, committed, hardworking, fun-loving, organized and compassionate, making Kids Cancer Care an incredible place to work.
Fun Facts
- What’s your camp name?Nino.
- What’s your favorite movie?Anything with Hugh Jackman! Right now it's The Greatest Showman.
- Tell us something quirky about yourself. My Hogwarts House is Hufflepuff!
Stephanie Newbery
Food Services Manager – Camp Kindle
As food services manager at Camp Kindle, I get to spread my passion for food and nutrition to our campers and staff alike. I oversee the kitchen operations including menu planning, coordinating kitchen staff, meal preparation and more.
Having been a part of the Kids Cancer Care team as a seasonal cook since 2013, while studying to become a registered dietitian, I have witnessed the positive impact that camp can have on families affected by cancer. I love working with such a great team that is dedicated to creating unique and unforgettable experiences for everyone who is touched by camp!
Fun Facts
- What's your favourite travel destination? Anywhere I get to see from between the ears of a horse.
- Where is your hometown?Water Valley, AB.
- What’s your favourite meal?Mac N' Cheese
Erin O'Connor
Development Associate - Marketing and Events
As the fundraising coordinator, I work on the revenue development team to help manage auctions, recruit Can Do fundraising partners, and support all aspects of Kids Cancer Care events. I am excited to work at Kids Cancer Care so that I can work towards a common goal of making a difference for families affected by childhood cancer.
Fun Facts
- What's your favourite travel destination? Costa Rica.
- What's your favourite movie?Green Brook
- What’s your favourite meal?Tacos!
Debra Osiowy
Chief Financial Officer
As Chief Financial Officer, I support financial and administrative functions to ensure the highest level of integrity, efficiency, and accountability. We are honoured by the support of many donors and volunteers who make it possible for us to walk with kids and families through their challenges and successes.
It is a privilege to play a role in supporting these courageous kids through scholarships, research, outreach programs and of course, the incredible Camp Kindle!
I love working here because it's inspiring to be part of the amazing Kids Cancer Care team! I am surrounded by passionate people dedicated to supporting kids and families affected by cancer. The energy and enthusiasm that we bring to our work makes it a very fulfilling place to be!
Fun Facts
- What’s your camp name? Anchovy
- Where is your hometown? Regina, SK
- What's your favourite travel destination? Ireland, our family cottage in Saskatchewan, Hawaii, and many still on the list...it's a beautiful world!
Laura Peace
Child Life Coordinator
As a Child Life Coordiantor, I work with kids to help them understand their medical journey. Through play with medical equipment, art activities and group programs, kids and their families can learn about what to expect and express their feelings around cancer.
I have worked with kids for many years. My sister-in-law was recently diagnosed with Leukemia and having the experience of a sibling with cancer made me want to join Kids Cancer Care and support kids who have cancer and their brothers and sisters.
- Favourite Movie - Aladdin
- Favourite Travel Destination - Disneyland
- Favourite Meal - Shepard's Pie
Daniel Pederson
Maintenance Assistant - Camp Kindle
I am Camp Kindle’s full-time maintenance assistant. I work year-round to keep Camp Kindle running smoothly, whether that’s building a whole new project or changing a light bulb!
I have been with Kids Cancer Care since 2013. Since then, I have seen first-hand what my work around camp can do for a child with cancer. It’s simply amazing what is possible when your heart is in your job, whether that’s keeping the camp looking great, or providing campers and groups with the best service and care you can give.
Fun Facts
- What is your favourite movie? The Lego Movie.
- What is your favourite meal?Steak and baked potatoes.
- Where is your hometown?Cremona/Water Valley, AB.
Leighana Shockey
Director of Operations - Camp Kindle
As director of operations at Camp Kindle, I get to oversee all aspects of the experience of our campers. I am responsible for making sure everyone has a fantastic time while they are at our amazing facility in the majestic beauty of the Alberta foothills.
Camp is a magical place where people can put aside their worries, labels and challenges. Where success can be as large as trying something that scares you and as small as giving a hug and either way it is special and celebrated. I love working with people completely committed to creating the very best camp experience for every person who enters the gates.
Fun Facts
- What’s your camp name?Ozone.
- What's your favourite meal?Grilled cheese and tomato soup!
- What's your favourite movie?A Knight's Tale
Sumangla Sharma
Marketing and Communication Specialist
As a Marketing and Communication Specialist, I get to tell the world what we’re up to at Kids Cancer Care. My role enables me to work closely with different teams, provide marketing support to our programs and initiatives, and drive awareness. I am passionate about storytelling and creating impactful content.
I am extremely excited to work at Kids Cancer Care — for me this is not just a job, this is about having a deeper meaning and purpose to everything I do. Also, I feel so fortunate and grateful to have such supportive and collaborative colleagues.
With Kids Cancer Care, I have found my happy place!
Fun Facts
- Where's your favorite travel destination? Goa and Kashmir in India
- Where's your hometown? New Delhi, India
- What's your favorite meal? Pasta!
Jodi Szepesi
Development Associate - Community Connections
As a development associate - community connections, a big part of my job is fundraising for Kids Cancer Care in many ways. This includes doing prospect research, sourcing silent auction donations and working with families on their own fundraisers. I have the privilege of managing The Big Brave program and working with community partners on their Can Dos for Kids fundraisers.
Working in my role at Kids Cancer Care allows me to get out into the community and share the many fantastic things we do! I love feeling like I’m getting things done and making a difference.
Fun Facts
- Favourite Movie? The Man From Snowy River
- What is your favourite travel destination? Hungary
- What’s your favourite meal? Tacos and spaghetti.
Madison Tutt
Development Associate - Events
As the Development Associate of Events, I work on the planning and execution of Kids Cancer Care’s signature events as well as supporting on other events and fundraising opportunities. I am excited to be a part of Kids Cancer Care because I get to work with a team who is coming together with a common goal of giving back and creating a safe space for families affected by childhood cancer.
Fun Facts
- Favorite Ice-cream - Maple Walnut
- Favorite Travel Destination - Spain
- Favorite Movie - Mamma Mia