September 15, 2025
Today, as the Quebec Cancer Foundation celebrates its 46th anniversary, it pays a heartfelt tribute filled with gratitude and emotion to two of its pillars: Dr. Pierre Audet-Lapointe and Dr. Michel Gélinas. The last founding members still active on the Board of Directors are now stepping down, leaving behind a priceless legacy.
A commitment that has been changing lives over many decades
In 1979, driven by a profound sense of urgency and an unwavering commitment to their patients, five doctors from Hôpital Notre-Dame — including Dr. Audet-Lapointe and Dr. Gélinas — founded the Quebec Cancer Foundation. At a time when countless patients from remote areas had to face precarious living conditions to receive their treatment, and in the face of government inaction, these builders decided to take matters into their own hands.
Together, they imagined and built an organization fully focused on people’s well-being, offering accommodation, physical and psychological support, information, and more. The end goal? To improve access to care and services, as well as the overall quality of life of people living with cancer.
“At that time, residents of remote regions had to somehow find a place to stay, at their own expense. This financial burden left them feeling even more anxious and fatigued. As a radiation oncologist, I was deeply concerned about this situation.” – Dr. Michel Gélinas
A heartening heritage
The original idea of having a Quebec foundation dedicated to cancer was the brainchild of Dr. Pierre Audet-Lapointe, not only one of the Foundation’s founders, but also the President of its Board of Directors from 1979 to 1996. Inspired by his internship at New York City’s Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the rigorous approach of Canadian oncology centers outside of Quebec, he was able to reach out to other visionaries and build what quickly became the largest accommodation network for cancer patients in Quebec.
A visionary with the ability to unify and rally, Dr. Audet-Lapointe changed how cancer care and treatment were perceived. His commitment, determination, and forthrightness allowed the Foundation to carve itself a role as a key player in the health network. Throughout his career, the Foundation’s mission became a personal cause, bringing benefits to all Quebecers.
A renowned radiation oncologist, professor emeritus, and founder of the radiation oncology department at Hôpital Notre-Dame, Dr. Michel Gélinas was a quiet yet determined strength. His expertise, leadership, and ability to innovate continue to influence the Foundation’s broad mission today. An active member of the Board of Directors and its President from 2005 to 2012, Dr. Gélinas contributed to the development of unique services accessible to all, conceived for and with patients. Like all of his fellow co-founders, he never faltered. He worked hard, day in and day out, to provide real and compassionate support to people impacted by cancer throughout Quebec.
Endless gratitude
Today, these two pioneers are taking a step back. While this will leave a huge void, the sturdy institution they built will continue to be a pillar in Quebec’s health ecosystem.
“The motivations from the very beginning are still with me, and my deepest wish is that Quebecers continue to be truly supported and cared for throughout their cancer journey. I fervently hope that the Foundation will continue on its course for many years to come, reaching and helping yet more people in need.”
– Dr. Pierre Audet-Lapointe
The Foundation’s Board of Directors, management, and personnel want to express their immense gratitude to Dr. Audet-Lapointe and Dr. Gélinas. Their passion, kindness, and vision have to date allowed the Foundation to offer its support to over half a million Quebecers. Thanks to their hard work, no one needs to face cancer alone. Their names will remain forever etched in the history of cancer in Quebec.
“Because of their actions, hundreds of thousands of Quebecers have been able to face cancer with the Foundation’s compassionate support. They exemplify courage, determination, and generosity, as they leave us with an inspiring legacy,” underscored Marco Décelles, General Manager, Quebec Cancer Foundation.
While they may be passing the torch, their heritage will continue to fuel future generations and guide the Foundation in its crucial mission.