Brenda Blais

Brenda Blais is a mother, caregiver, and passionate advocate whose journey has been shaped by supporting her brother (initially as a young sibling carer), as well as her late parents and daughter. With a lifetime of lived experience, Brenda brings a deeply personal and informed perspective to Canada’s caregiving landscape. Caring for her daughter (whose needs were extremely complex, intense, and spanned over three decades), was profoundly transformative, rewarding beyond measure, and shaped the very heart of her advocacy.

Brenda currently serves as co-chair of the Caregivers CAN Committee for the Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence. She has actively contributed to national efforts that elevate caregiver voices, supports a range of initiatives, research collaborations, and public engagements. She has also spoken widely on caregiving and disability advocacy, including at the inaugural Canadian Caregiving Summit in 2023. Her work highlights the importance of recognizing caregivers as essential partners in care, and ensuring they feel, seen, heard, respected, and valued.

Brenda has engaged directly with Members of Parliament to champion the proposed National Caregiving Strategy, led by CCCE. She brings heart and insight to the national conversation, honouring caregiving journeys, and those who walk them every day.