Joan Ference

Treasurer

Joan Ference serves as Treasurer of the Tarlov Cyst Society, bringing decades of lived experience, compassion, and dedication to the organization’s mission.

After years of debilitating symptoms — numbness, nerve pain, and difficulty walking or sitting for extended periods — Joan chose to focus not on what she had lost, but on what she could give. Diagnosed with Tarlov Cyst Disease, she understands firsthand the challenges many patients face while searching for answers, support, and informed care. 

In 2024, Joan and her husband played a pivotal role in the Society’s growth by personally funding its incorporation as a registered Canadian charity. Their generosity helped transform a grassroots patient network into an organization capable of expanding education, research, advocacy, and patient support efforts.

Joan continues to serve the Society with compassion and care, ensuring transparency and accountability in our financial stewardship. Her leadership is a powerful reminder that one person’s courage and compassion can help ignite change for an entire community.