Save Your Skin Foundation

Welcome to Save Your Skin Foundation (SYSF), a national patient-led not-for-profit group dedicated to combatting non-melanoma skin cancers, melanoma, and ocular melanoma through nationwide education, advocacy, and awareness initiatives. Our mission is to actively contribute to the reduction of skin cancer incidence in Canada while providing compassionate support to all Canadians living with skin cancers. Founded by Kathleen Barnard, a North Vancouver resident and melanoma survivor, SYSF's inception in 2006 was fueled by Kathleen's personal journey with stage IV malignant melanoma, which had spread to her vital organs, leaving her with limited treatment options. The pivotal discovery of a life-saving trial treatment in Alberta, thanks to one of her sons, inspired Kathleen to establish SYSF.

SYSF is committed to ensuring equal, timely, affordable, and appropriate access to skin cancer treatment for all Canadians. We actively engage with public and private industry stakeholders, health policy influencers, and systemic treatment access issues with cancer agencies, government bodies, and drug-approval authorities across the country. Together, with the support of our dedicated team, donors, and partners, we strive to make a tangible impact in the fight against skin cancers and improve the lives of those affected by these conditions. Join us in our mission to save lives and safeguard the well-being of our community as we work tirelessly towards a future free from the burden of skin cancers.