Our board of directors are proud volunteers of the PKD Foundation of Canada, and are passionate advocates for support, research and education to help all those affected by polycystic kidney disease (PKD).
Doug Robertson
Doug Robertson is a founding member of the PKD Foundation of Canada. His involvement with PKD began as a result of his wife Jan’s diagnosis in 1980, at the age of 27. Since then, she has had two liver transplants and expects to receive a kidney transplant in the future. Doug and Jan have two adult children, Megan and Jeff. Prior to his role as Treasurer, Doug served as the Board Chair from 1994 to 2011.
Jarrett Osborne
Jarrett Osborne’s son, Harrison, was born with PKD ironically on World Kidney Day. His wife Angie, and their other two children, Clark and Madelynne, have dedicated their creative passions, entrepreneurial and philanthropic spirits to fight PKD and further support research, education, advocacy, support and awareness. The Osborne’s social enterprises include ‘POP Remedy’, a comic strip syndicate that marries artists with causes and ‘PLAY4PKD’, a gaming vlog that inspires friendly competition, playful penalties and matched donations. Jarrett believes Harrison is the best thing that could have happened to his family and they are exponentially better because of him. They are indebted to him and will by any means, continue to fight and forge for a cure for PKD.
Dianne Hillier
PKD runs in Dianne’s family with both maternal grandparents and her mother having this disease. Over 15 years ago Dianne’s father donated his kidney to her mother. Dianne and her family are excited to continue their support of the PKD Foundation of Canada, and remain dedicated to advocating for future treatment options that will improve the lives of those afflicted with PKD.
Stephanie Vardzel
Stephanie is a passionate supporter of the PKD Foundation of Canada. She has dedicated herself to the foundation in memory of her daughter Abigail, who passed away due to ARPKD in infancy. She is honoured to bring her organizational and life skills, Master’s education and drive to the organization. Stephanie and her husband are dedicated to finding a cure, so no other parent has to endure the heartache that they experienced.
Sara Hillier
I’m Sara Hillier and have been involved in the PKD community with the PKDFOC for as long as I can remember. My grandmother had PKD and my mom also has the disease. It has affected all of my family’s lives. My grandmother fought PKD with all of her might, and now my mother is doing the very same!
It is my turn to do my part in the fight to end PKD. I am excited to be a part of the Board of Directors, and look forward to advocating and fundraising for advancements in treatment options. It is my hope to one day see a cure for polycystic kidney disease.