It all began with a single act of courage—a mother, with no where else to go, chose to share her son’s story with the world.
After publishing an article on the sudden and unexplained death of her teenage son Greg, Pam Husband could have never predicted how that one act of determination would save the lives of so many.
Andrea’s story was similarly destined for tragedy. At just 11 years old, she had already suffered several fainting spells and had endured two near-drownings. It wasn’t until Pam’s story caught the eye of Andrea’s family that the pieces finally fell into place. After reading about Greg’s death and Long QT Syndrome, Andrea’s family pushed for answers—and they got them. Finally diagnosed, Andrea received a pacemaker that same year.
It was a small act that set this life-saving chain in motion: a grieving mother sharing her loss, a family connecting the dots and a little girl receiving the treatment she so desperately needed. Because of that diagnosis, Andrea didn’t just survive—she thrived.
These are the survival stories that led to the creation of the Canadian SADS Foundation. Through education, advocacy, and research support, the Foundation works to raise awareness of these potentially life-threatening conditions, promote early diagnosis, and prevent sudden cardiac deaths. The Foundation provides essential resources to patients and healthcare professionals, hosts awareness events, and connects affected families with a supportive community. As the only patient advocacy organization of its kind in Canada, the Canadian SADS Foundation plays a vital role in offering guidance, hope, and a sense of belonging to those navigating the challenges of living with SADS conditions.
As the years pass, we think of all the missed opportunities and could-have beens. The missing is an ache that lives in our blood and bones. I find it so crazy that our stories are so similar- so many things missed that could have prevented these catastrophic losses.
– Kim R
Fast-forward nearly 30 years, and Andrea’s life is a testament to the power of early diagnosis and treatment. Now raising a child of her own with a SADS illness, Andrea’s life has come full circle. What began as a story of survival has turned into a mission.
It’s easy to overlook how a single action can ripple outward, touching lives in ways we never expect. But Andrea’s life, and her son’s future, are living proof that small actions of organizations like the Canadian SADS Foundation can change everything. Sometimes, it’s one shared story that makes all the difference.
The Canadian SADS Foundation’s impact is far-reaching, but it can only continue with the help of those who believe in its mission. Follow us on social media, visit our website, and help us spread awareness. Every action, no matter how small, has the power to save a life.
To learn more, visit sads.ca.
