Raise Awareness

NF affects thousands of people across British Columbia yet most people have never heard of it.

Because NF is a complex, and often misunderstood, individuals and families can face delayed diagnosis, limited access to informed care, and a lack of public understanding. Awareness plays a critical role in changing that.

When more people understand NF:

  • Signs are recognized earlier
  • Healthcare providers are better informed
  • Stigma and misunderstanding are reduced
  • Families feel seen, supported, and less alone

Raising awareness helps create a community where people living with NF are recognized for who they are . not just what others see, or don’t see.

NF Awareness Month – May

Each May, during NF Awareness Month, individuals, families, and communities across British Columbia come together to help bring NF out of the shadows.

NF looks different for everyone.

Some people live with visible tumours.

Others live with pain, hearing loss, learning challenges, or symptoms no one can see.

Awareness helps make space for all of these experiences.

Awareness ad on Vancouver Skytrain

Awareness takes many forms

Raising awareness doesn’t require a big platform and it doesn’t have to happen only in May. Awareness can happen year-round, and every action helps move understanding forward.

You can:
  • Share NF information with friends, family, or colleagues
  • Talk openly about NF and correct common misconceptions
  • Participate in NF Awareness Month activities
  • Help invite local landmarks to Shine a Light on NF
  • Share our #NFtruth campaign and resources

Together, these actions help build understanding- one conversation, one community at a time.

Because awareness is often the first step toward better care.

Shine a Light on NF

Each May, communities across British Columbia help bring NF into view by lighting up landmarks in blue and green.

Shine a Light on NF is a visible show of support. It is a reminder to those living with NF that they are seen, and an invitation for others to learn more. Every illuminated building sparks conversation, curiosity, and connection.

With your help, these moments of light help make NF visible – across BC.

We are grateful for the support of our 2026 Shine a Light on NF partners:

Vancouver
  • BC Place
  • Canada Place 
  • TELUS Garden
  • Vancouver Convention Centre District Markers
  • Arms of Olympic Cauldron
Metro Vancouver
  • Burnaby City Hall
  • New Westminster City Hall
Tri-Cities
  • Lafarge Lake Fountain
  • Light Columns: Pine Tree Way at Coquitlam City Hall
  • Light Columns: Lougheed Hwy + Pinetree Way
  • Port Moody City Hall
Fraser Valley
  • Douglas Park Spirit Square
  • Maple Ridge City Hall
  • Surrey Civic Centre
  • White Rock Pier
Coast & Interior
  • District of Sechelt Municipal Tower
  • Kelowna General Hospital Skywalk
  • Victoria Street Bridge (Trail, BC) 
Vancouver Island
  • Legislative Assembly of Parliament Buildings 
  • Confederation Garden Park Fountain + Waterfall

Interested in joining Shine a Light on NF?

If your organization or a landmark in your community would like to participate in this awareness initiative, we’d be happy to connect. Please reach out to our team at info@tumourfoundation.ca

Shine a Light Toolkit

Download our toolkit and template email to request participation in your city:

Community Toolkit