For Hailey Laxer, leadership is not just about ambition—it is about resilience. From an early age, she understood the power of perseverance, navigating the daily challenges of cystic fibrosis (CF) while pursuing her academic and professional aspirations and her drive to make an impact in her community.
Now a recognized advocate, fundraiser, and leader, Hailey’s journey has been one of unwavering determination. Hailey’s leadership and impact were recently recognized with the King Charles III Coronation Medal, reflecting her dedication to advancing research and creating better access to medication and improving the lives of those living with CF and other rare diseases. Her efforts also include raising awareness of the real-life challenges for those living with chronic and invisible diseases in all aspects of their lives, whether they be at work, in their social lives, or in navigating the medical system.
Living with CF is a relentless challenge. It requires a rigorous daily routine of treatments and medications, and a multitude of serious symptoms, often making even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. Despite these obstacles, Hailey has refused to let CF define her. Instead, she has transformed her adversities and experiences into a powerful platform for change, using her voice to raise awareness, secure funding for research, and advocate for better resources and quality of life for the CF community.
Hailey’s journey has not been without setbacks. Extended hospital stays, ongoing health concerns, and the complexities of managing a chronic illness have, at times, disrupted her life. But through it all, she has remained steadfast in her mission: to turn adversity into action. “I am fighting daily for the simple things most people take for granted,” she shares. “Fighting for access to medications, fighting for progress, and fighting to make CF mean ‘Cure Found.’”
The Role of Education in Empowerment
Hailey’s academic journey has played an essential role in shaping her leadership and advocacy work. She pursued her political science and public administration undergraduate studies at the University of Ottawa, and earned her Bachelor in Civil Law and Juris Doctor degrees from McGill University this year. In addition, her experience as a Killam Fellow through Fulbright Canada gave her a new perspective on public service and the role of policy, public affairs, and even diplomacy in driving meaningful change.
Spending a semester at American University in Washington, D.C., Hailey gained firsthand exposure to the intersection of policy, governance, and advocacy. Immersed in a new academic environment, she deepened her understanding of how research and strategic engagement can influence decision-making at the highest levels. This experience reinforced her belief in the power of knowledge and cross-border collaboration to advance causes that matter.
Leadership in Action
At 18, Hailey established the Hailey Laxer Fund through Cystic Fibrosis Canada, dedicating an initial $18,000 donation to support targeted CF research initiatives. Through fundraising campaigns, community engagement, and advocacy, she has helped raise more than $385,000 for CF Canada—an extraordinary achievement that has directly supported advancements in treatments and patient care.
Beyond fundraising, Hailey has become a prominent voice in the CF community, engaging with policymakers, pharmaceutical representatives, and healthcare professionals to highlight the needs of those living with CF. She has spoken at conferences, participated in national advisory panels, and played an instrumental role in amplifying the patient experience in conversations that shape healthcare policy.
Hailey’s leadership extends beyond advocacy, as she is a mentor and role model for others facing similar challenges. Whether through public speaking engagements, media appearances, or one-on-one connections, she inspires those around her to take action in their communities.
Looking Ahead
Hailey’s journey is far from over. As she continues her advocacy and public engagement work, using the knowledge and skills she has acquired through her legal education she remains focused on pushing for continued progress in access to medications, patient support, and broader healthcare initiatives. Her story is a reminder that resilience is not just about overcoming obstacles—it is about using those obstacles as fuel to create meaningful change.
Hailey offers simple but potent advice to young leaders looking to make a difference: “Don’t just exist. Truly live. Ask yourself daily what you would do if you weren’t afraid, and then go out and do that.”
Hailey Laxer embodies the transformative impact of resilience and leadership through her advocacy, academic achievements, and unwavering determination. Her story serves as an inspiration not only to those living with CF but to anyone striving to create a lasting difference in the world.