Board Member
Marla Rosen, originally from Kingston, Ontario, is a passionate advocate for individuals and families navigating complex health journeys. A graduate of St. Lawrence College, Marla’s commitment to advocacy was born from a personal experience, walking alongside her husband through his cancer diagnosis and treatment beginning in 2010. The challenges they faced together within the healthcare system, including navigating multiple treatments and complications, inspired her to become a vocal and compassionate advocate for others.
Marla believes in building strong bridges between individuals, families, providers, and healthcare institutions. Her work is grounded in the belief that everyone caring for someone struggling, whether with substance use or serious illness, deserves access to clear, evidence-based tools and support.
Marla was the Chair of the Regional Patient and Family Advisory Council for the Cancer Centre of South-Eastern Ontario, a role she held with dedication for over 15 years. She has also served on several influential hospital committees, including the Cancer Program Council and the Patient and Family Advisory Council at Kingston General Hospital (KGH).
Marla’s advocacy is also deeply informed by her own lived experience of recovery from substance use. Her personal journey toward healing sparked a commitment to lifelong learning and service. She has since pursued further education in social work, trauma-informed care, and lasting self-change, bringing both empathy and expertise to her work.
Most recently, Marla has transitioned her advocacy efforts toward supporting family members of loved ones struggling with mental health and substance use, a cause closely aligned with her values of compassion, empowerment, and accessible care for all families facing challenging health journeys.