Acoustic Neuroma Association of Canada

The Acoustic Neuroma Association of Canada (ANAC) was established in 1983 by acoustic neuroma patients Virginia Garossino, Linda Gray and Velma Campbell. Based out of Edmonton, the three women underwent acoustic neuroma surgery within a year. The women encountered individual sets of difficulties and recovery courses. Through their challenging journey they found that there was little support and information for Canadians dealing with the rare, benign cranial tumor and Found the strength within each other, the three established ANAC, a charitable organization designed to support the complex needs of acoustic neuroma patients all over the Canada. Since then the association has grown to several hundred members all over the Canada with local chapters in several cities. ANAC continues to actively pursue the goals envisioned by its founders. The Acoustic Neuroma Association of Canada is a patient-headed, peer support group. It is an registered, non-profit and incorporated organization recognized as such by Canada Revenue Agency. The purpose of this association is to 1) provide support and information to individuals who have experienced acoustic neuromas. 2) Educate the public regarding symptoms and give suggestions of acoustic neuromas, thus promoting early diagnosis and consequent successful treatment. 3) Furnish information on patient rehabilitation to physicians and health care staff which shows interes in the treatment of benign tumors and  the alleviation of post-surgical problem. 4) Facilitate and Promote research regarding the cause and treatment of acoustic neuroma. It is through ANAC’s goal of information sharing and public education, early diagnosis and treatment may result in successful treatment for patients. The Acoustic Neuroma Association of Canada supports ongoing research of the cause, development and treatment of acoustic neuroma and other benign cranial tumors. The Services of the Acoustic Neuroma Association of Canada are 1) Produces and distributes a newsletter which includes professionally related authored articles, self-help & other information and news about ANAC and its activities.2) Acts as an information exchange for patients.3) Makes available information booklets to newly diagnosed patients. 4) Responds to individual members' non-medical needs. 5) Provides opportunities for patients to communicate with others in their geographic area. 6) They promote the public education regarding symptoms which may indicate the presence of these tumors. 7) Encourages research into the diagnosis and treatment of cranial nerve tumors. 8) Provides information upon request on neuromuscular,  physiotherapy rehabilitation and the alleviation of post-surgical problems.