A Tribute to Cathy Samuelson

It is with profound sadness that the Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy shares the passing of our dear friend, mentor, advisor, and champion, Cathy Samuelson, who passed away peacefully on June 30, 2026.

Cathy became involved with OFCP in 2007 as a Board Advisor, and from that day on she became one of the guiding forces behind our organization. For well over two decades, she inspired us with her wisdom, her commitment, and her incredible ability to always know what the right thing to do was. No matter the discussion or the challenge, her focus was always the same: what is best for our members?

I had the privilege of working alongside Cathy throughout my journey with OFCP—as President of the Board, Treasurer, and now as CEO—and it was the best journey I could have hoped for. She helped shape not only this organization, but also the leader I have become. Whenever I faced a difficult decision, Cathy somehow always knew the right answer. Truth be told, I can't remember a time when she was wrong.

Cathy was diagnosed with ALS in 2020, but that never defined her. Even as her health declined, her dedication to OFCP never wavered. In fact, I was sitting with her just a week ago, asking for her advice. Whenever I visited, I would say, "Let's talk about niceties today." Cathy would smile and answer, "Not until after you tell me everything that's happening at OFCP."

That was Cathy. Every breath became a struggle, but her passion for OFCP and the people we serve never faded. She believed everyone deserved to be heard, and that belief can be seen in so many of the initiatives she championed, including the Abuse Prevention Project and the Augmentative Communication Project. Everything she touched became better because she cared so deeply.

Earlier this year, OFCP established two Augmentative Communication Awards. We now know there could be no more fitting tribute than to dedicate these awards in Cathy's honour, celebrating her lifelong commitment to giving people a voice.

On behalf of our Board of Directors, staff, members, volunteers, and friends, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Cathy's family; Greg, Matthew and Phoebe, her colleagues at North Yorkers, her friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

As her friend, and as CEO of the Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy, I simply want to say...

Thank you, Cathy.

Thank you for believing in us. Thank you for your wisdom, your friendship, and your unwavering support. OFCP is a better organization because of you, and I am a better person for having known you.

Rest peacefully, my dear friend.

Funeral Service

Monday, July 13, 2026
1:30 p.m.
Kane-Jerrett Funeral Homes
8088 Yonge Street
Thornhill, ON L4J 6W6