WHO WE ARE

The Thalidomide Victims Association of Canada is a non-profit charitable organization established in 1988 which represents over a hundred Canadians living with congenital malformations as result of the teratogenic effects of the thalidomide drug. This drug was prescribed in the late fifties and early sixties to pregnant women to relieve morning sickness.

The Thalidomide Victims Association of Canada exists to empower its members and to improve their quality of life.

Also, the Association has undertaken a new mandate to warn the public about the potentially devastating effects of certain drugs, so that recurrence of a tragedy such as thalidomide’s can be avoided.

WHAT WE DO

TVAC is currently the only group in North America who represents thalidomide survivors. Here is a glimpse of what we do:

• We promote the rights and interests of all confirmed Canadian thalidomide survivors.
• We organize national and regional events for our members, that feature conferences, workshops, entertainment and more. It is a great way for thalidomide survivors to gather and share their struggles, solutions, experiences and life paths.

• We offer personalized support for our members.
• We write and send quarterly newsletters (REACTION) and punctual news clips leaflets (INTERACTION) for our members.
• We provide useful resources for our members and other persons with disabilities, as well as plenty of information for the public about the thalidomide tragedy and on the topic of drug safety through our website.
• We share our story through conferences, so that the tragedy of thalidomide does not sink into oblivion and that the lessons learned from the past can serve as a tool to promote drug safety.

Help us fulfill our commitment towards all Canadian victims of thalidomide. Your support can make all the difference!