COPN, the patient arm of Osteoporosis Canada, is a virtual network of people who are living with or
affected by osteoporosis. It was founded in 2004 by four friends who were determined to overcome the
challenges of living with osteoporosis. This group believed that people living with osteoporosis needed a
strong voice to provide the perspective of patients in all areas including medical matters, research
initiatives, communication, public relations and education.
COPN was established by patients. Its members are patients and it works on behalf of the needs and
interests of people living with and/or affected by osteoporosis. COPN also endeavours to educate, empower and
support members of its network through the use of virtual technologies and mutual support.
How COPN works
COPN is composed of a network of individuals affected by osteoporosis who receive information and interact
around osteoporosis related interests and issues in a virtual environment. Join COPN, become a member of
COPN (membership is free), you will receive:
°COPING, the bi-weekly newsletter. In addition to providing credible, up-to-date
information on osteoporosis and practical tips for day-to-day living, COPING gives members
important, timely advice on breaking news stories such as the side effects of medications. If you don’t
have email access, COPING will be mailed to you every 3 months.
°Access to mutual support opportunities. Connect with others affected by osteoporosis and
share experiences.
°Access to Virtual Education Forums that are wide-spread accessibility to live
interactive online forums on topics that interest you, from experts you can trust.
°Wide-spread accessibility to live interactive online forums on topics that
interest you, from experts you can trust.
°Timely notification via e-mail broadcasts of new information, local activities and
events in addition to lifestyle tips on nutrition, physical activity, safe movements, falls prevention and
much more.
°Information about advocacy initiatives taking place across the country.
°Opportunities to become involved.
How COPN evolved
In 2004, four people with osteoporosis recognized an urgent need for patients to have a greater influence
in all issues concerning osteoporosis. Encouraged and assisted by Osteoporosis Canada, Sheila Brien,
Priscilla Cole, Ina Ilse and Gail Lemieux created the COPN Steering Committee which formulated plans to
establish the mandate for a patient network. The four women have all been patient spokespersons and
volunteers with Osteoporosis Canada for many years. As a group, they offered a variety of knowledge and
experience in science, patient counselling, program development, nursing, government policy, research, and
most importantly, living with osteoporosis.
View the COPN’s Executive Committee and
Sub-Committees
