Your Wounds Are Part Of Who You Are

‘Bad things happen to good people.’ It’s a phrase I have heard dozens of times in my life. It’s also a phrase that I hoped would stay clear of my family, my friends, and myself. However, sometimes you can’t stay clear forever. This blog is quite the exact opposite of my last one, a total 360. The reason being, there is no way you could ever measure a happy life without sadness in the picture; happiness would lose its meaning.

Everyone tells you to think positive, and you will have a happier and healthier life. As children, we make lemonade, and are taught to see the glass have full. But, there are moments that can change everything. We learn at a young age to buckle our seatbelts, to wear a helmet, and look both ways before we cross the street. We do our best. But sometimes, it makes no difference. Bad things come… and they come out of nowhere. There is no warning. This past summer, my sister had a terrible accident, a close family friend, and aunt died, and I had an accident at work. It was just one hit after the other. I felt like I was getting the wind knocked out of me, while I was still on the ground struggling to pick myself up from the last hit. Usually when something bad happens that affects me, I shake it off. Pretend it’s not there and pay no attention to it. Would it do any good anyway? But, you do need to heal. You need to feel your feelings, things need to be said and you need to go through the whole process, whatever it may be. To allow yourself to heal, you need to be a victim for a moment. After that, you are what you choose to become.

My cards are folded. I cannot change them. I have to live with them. They are what make up my year, my life. But sometimes, I lose myself. Sometimes, I want to pick up those cards, and send them flying over a tall building. Sometimes, I wish I could restart. Give back the deck and get a new one. As much as I think I have had the worst of luck- I cannot think that way. My sister is still here with me, and both my aunt, and family friend are out of pain. As for me, I survived. My wounds will heal. There is still an inner voice within me, and even though sometimes it’s a soft whisper, it still reminds me that I am strong enough. That I can be more. This is when never losing hope plays a role. The little reminder that things can get better. Things do change and it is not always what it seems.

So when things get tough, understand that it’s okay to not have on that brave face. I think it’s okay to break down, scream, cry, question. Because it’s only when you lose everything, can you rebuild. The hard things that have happened in my life have made my voice a little louder. To this day, I know my sister did not deserve what happened to her. I do not think I deserved what happened to me. My aunt did not deserve to be in so much pain on the last few months of her life, nor did she deserve to lose her life to a battle she never asked to fight. Our family friend should have kept on smiling and spending time with the ones she loved most. My mind will never change on that. So why? I cannot change their cards, just as I cannot change mine.

All I hope for is that you know how to play those cards, and you play them well. What I have realized more than before is that we do not get to decide what will happen to us, however, we can decide how we are going to live. Is the life you are living now how you want to live? Is this the best you can be? You have the power to decide.

There are memories, no matter how much I think about it, no matter how much I try, I can never bring it back. There is no going back. Despite it all, I believe there will be an end to the storm. It will not destroy me. I may have felt it rip me apart and the winds may have slowed me down but when all is done, is when I have learned. This is when I have realized, just how strong I am. That if I can survive one storm, I am strong enough for one more, and one more. Pain in life is bound to happen. Nobody can escape it. Sometimes it makes you feel like life is against you and you cannot do anything but feel worthless in the moment. Then, perhaps you wonder, do I deserve this pain? No… I don’t think so. Perhaps it means you are growing and perhaps there is something to be learned. What happens to us does not define our lives. It lies in what we do about what happens. Your power lies in your response, not in your circumstances.

Life will never be perfect, no matter how hard you try. There will be days that make you question yourself, that make you feel like you’re losing your battle. Your heart will break, and life, for a split second, may feel too hard.  Overall, you should never be ashamed or embarrassed by your wounds. I used to want to hide it, but now I embrace it. It’s a part of who I am. I am proud of my scars and overcoming every bump in the road was greater than anything else I ever did. My wounds made me dig deep and find something inside I didn’t know I had. My wounds had revealed me.

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Ivana was born in Sanski Most, Bosnia & Herzegovina, but moved to Canada at the age of three. She was diagnosed with LGMD a few years ago, and it has forever changed her life. She is a regular contributor, and her blogs will be everything she has learned along the way, and what she continues to learn today.

When Amanda Met Justin

Photo courtesy of Amanda Renneberg

You may have heard about the lucky girl from Sherwood Park, Alberta who was finally able to meet her idol, Justin Timberlake, after months of garnering support on her Facebook page.

Amanda Renneberg – the lucky girl in question – is 27 years old, and is affected by Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA.)

“It’s probably pretty obvious that my life has not completely turned out how I hoped and dreamed it would, but really, who can say their life has traveled this journey exactly how they thought it should? I was diagnosed at 18 with FA. Friedreich’s Ataxia  has drastically changed my life. I choose to deal with things as they come, so future expectations would not hinder me from living a meaningful life. Every person’s future is unknown to them, regardless of FA, so one day at a time is a very important life philosophy to embrace.”

Justin Timberlake played an important role in Amanda’s life as she has been a fan from the beginning in 1998 when ‘N Sync’s debut self-titled album was released worldwide. At the time, Amanda was 11 years old, and FA did not exist to her yet, “Justin is a huge inspiration to me. I love his music, his dance moves, he is so incredibly talented.  His voice just has a power to make me feel good, he inspires me to move.”

Many fans try to get tickets, but how did the idea to start a social media campaign to actually meet Timberlake come about? “Back in August 2013 we drove to Vancouver to see him perform.  After seeing him then, I thought it would be a dream come true to be able to meet him.  So I started Facebook and Twitter pages to try to achieve a dream, what’s the harm in trying?”

The power of social media got Amanda’s story noticed by Global News, radio stations, and many other new outlets. Amanda gave several television interviews which she describes as, “…super nerve racking. I did several TV interviews, radio interviews, newspaper interviews…I was very nervous for every single one.  I’m a small town girl – I had never been on TV before, but I would tell myself, JT is worth it!  Raising awareness of FA is worth it!”

After months of getting her story out there, Amanda received a phone call from none other than Justin Timberlake himself. “I was absolutely speeches!  I knew it was him the second he spoke.  He was so kind, he told me he saw my newspaper article and he couldn’t wait to meet me in person.”

Amanda had already bought tickets for both of the tour dates in Edmonton, but those tickets ended up going to someone else, “I was given the royal treatment both nights at the concert – we were backstage in his friends/family room.  Myself and three others were given VIP tickets!  I was able to pay it forward and give away my two accessible seats for both shows.”

Photo courtesy of Amanda Renneberg

So how did she feel about finally meeting her idol? “It was the best 15 minutes of my life! I got to give my idol a hug and he picked me up!  He pulled up a chair and sat beside me, he was so down to earth, so genuine, caring – just a great man.  He made me feel so special. It is very rare for him to do meet and greets… He gave me concert memorabilia, and personalized 3 autographs for me. He asked how to spell my name… and I forgot! He just has that effect.” Many people are content with wishing, but Amanda asked, got help, and her dream came true, “It is feels surreal, I can’t believe it happened.  So much more has come, it has brought just such international FA awareness. I’m the girl with FA that got to meet JT!”

“Living with a neuromuscular  disorder is anything from easy, but don’t let it define you.  Do the things you love and take it day by day. Live in the moment.”

So, what was Amanda’s take away from this whole experience? “I just want more awareness, for more information out there. I realize in order to create the life of my dreams I must continue to push forward. ‘If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward,’ Martin Luther King Jr.”

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If you want to see how much media attention Amanda and her story received, try typing “Amanda Renneberg” into Google. You’ll be there a while.

For more information on Friedreich’s Ataxia, click here.

Partnerships at Work

La version française suit.

Last year, a new educational venture was held with the support of Muscular Dystrophy Canada. In partnership with Holland Bloorview and Sick Kids this creation was a family day for those supporting people living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA); these included children, young adults and adults, as well as their families and caregivers. Dr. Reshma Amin explains how the Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Family Day came about:

“I work in the Complex Respiratory Care clinic at The Hospital for Sick Children along with Dr Theo Moraes, Cathy Daniels NP, Faiza Syed RRT and Ellie Lathrop SW. Our team follows children dependent on respiratory technology (eg BiPAP and invasive ventilation,) many of whom have neuromuscular disorders such as Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Many of these children are often jointly followed at Holland Bloorview Rehabilitation Hospital for their neuromuscular care by Dr. Laura McAdam, the co-chair of this event, and her team. In clinic one day, while we were discussing transition to an adult healthcare center, an adolescent mentioned that he wanted to go to university and that he would love to be able to talk to another young adult with SMA that was successfully attending university. This got us thinking that we should organize a family educational event to facilitate kids with SMA being able to talk to other kids with SMA about ‘real life’ issues.”

Over 100 individuals (a full house) attended the event – most from the Greater Toronto Area, but participants from Thunder Bay, Ontario and New Brunswick were also present. The goal for the day? “To increase awareness about Spinal Muscular Atrophy in the community and to further educate caregivers, and children affected by SMA,” says Dr. Amin. “More specifically we wanted to increase the knowledge of families and children surrounding the medical, and psychosocial impact of SMA. We wanted to provide a venue in which we could foster supportive relationships between affected families. Lastly, we wanted the children and their families to learn of and appreciate the current scientific research activities that are ongoing for SMA.”

The day consisted of listening to many speakers, and participating in discussions and networking opportunities:

“Our key speakers are internationally renowned for their work with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Dr. John Bach, a Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation from University Hospital, Newark, New Jersey, who has unparalleled  clinical experience with those affected by this disorder, provided us with a provocative overview of the respiratory management of SMA. Brian Weaver, MS, RRT-NPS, RPFT, a respiratory therapist and Department Head at Kimble Medical Center, Newark, New Jersey, provided a practical review of the respiratory complications and the role of respiratory technology for children with SMA. Dr. Alex Mackenzie, a clinician-scientist from the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario provided a high level review of SMA research and what clinical trials for children with SMA are current and planned.  There were many other speakers including Tracy Lacey, chair of Fight SMA Canada, her husband Shawn and their daughter Tori, who has been diagnosed with SMA, provided a practical overview of ‘living with a child with SMA’ from needed home modifications, to school considerations. Dr. Adam Rapoport, the Medical Director of the Pediatric Advanced Care Team at SickKids informed families of the support services their team is able to provide to their children and families. Karen Dunbar, Services Specialist for Ontario and Nunavut from Muscular Dystrophy Canada, provided a pragmatic, and informative overview of the services and supports provided by the organization to children and their families with SMA. Dr. Laura McAdam, reviewed the Canadian Neuromuscular Disease Registry, established with the aim of helping clinicians and scientists improve clinical care of children with neuromuscular disease. There were also sessions focused on caring for a child with a chronic disease, increasing independence of adolescents with chronic disease as well as a break out session just for teenagers with SMA.”

Angela McGonigal, whose son Owen is affected by SMA, thought that the day had many great aspects including the health information shared, and the opportunity to establish networks and bonds with others in the same situation.

“Brian Weaver is a Respiratory Therapist who worked closely with Dr. Bach.  He is a strong proponent of cough assist machines for SMA patients.  He advised that when SMA kids are sick, they can utilize the cough assist machine every 3 hours during the day,” remembers Angela. “He recommends avoiding oxygen therapy as it masks ventilation issues such as secretions.  He encourages chest therapy and recommends having the torso higher than the head to facilitate drainage.”

Muscular dystrophy Canada’s very own Services Specialist for Ontario and Nunavut, Karen Dunbar’s information was also very helpful. “She provided an overview of the home renovation funding and the equipment program and the event was well attended by families, doctors, therapists, nurses, social workers and others involved in SMA patient care.  It was a great opportunity to learn, reflect and connect,” says Angela.

Dr. Amin also heard high praises from attendees, “One participant told me they felt ‘informed, inspired and connected.’ At the end of the day, we were also asked, ‘When are you going to have this next year?’”

Everyone who attended, from clients, parents, caregivers and medical professionals, all learned new things and made new connections. Dr. Amin had one particular memory stand out: “At the end of the day, we had a panel discussion led by adolescents and young adults with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. The audience was able to ask these individuals questions, and the responses were insightful and inspiring.  One young adult with SMA was asked, ‘What is the one thing you would want to change in life if you were able?’ Her response was to be able to change the way people looked at her in a wheelchair. She hoped for a world with an increasing acceptance of children who were different. Her words resonated with everybody who was in the room. As healthcare providers, this is one goal we need to help work towards achieving for these children.”

“We hope that the attendees came away with an increase in knowledge regarding the respiratory management and complications of a child with SMA,” says Dr. Amin. “We also wanted to increase the awareness of the effect of having a child with SMA has on the family, specifically the social and psychosocial consequences of the condition at life’s many transition points. We also hope that we were able to break down barriers and foster open discussions between health care professionals, caregivers, and children both at the event and in the future. Of paramount importance is our hope that we were able to promote a support network for families with children with SMA. We also wanted to fully inform families about the registry as well as other research in SMA in order that they may participate in research if they wish to do so.”

The full house and outstanding feedback from attendees highlights the importance of partnerships between hospitals, care facilities, research centres and not-for-profit organizations, and why sharing information and resources – not only from a research standpoint, but also in terms of services – is so vital to the care of those with neuromuscular disorders. “The Hospital for Sick Children, Holland Bloorview Rehabilitation Hospital, and Muscular Dystrophy Canada all strive to provide better patient centered care to the children and their families,” Dr. Amin explains. “Strong partnerships are essential across hospitals and NFPs to facilitate transitions from hospital to home as well as to develop and support these families in their communities,” says Dr. Amin.  “For example, the funding support of Muscular Dystrophy Canada towards respiratory technology facilitates the purchase of mechanical insufflator-exsufflators (cough assists) for our patients.  This improves their overall pulmonary health and helps to keep these children in school and out of hospital.”

Of course, that is everyone’s ultimate goal.

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The Spinal Muscular Atrophy Family Education Day was hosted by SickKids Hospital and Holland Bloorview Rehabilitation Hospital. This event was made possible by the generous support of Muscular Dystrophy Canada, the SickKids Foundation, Fight SMA Canada and Lifetronics.

For more information on SMA and other neuromuscular disorders, please click here. To learn more about programs offered by Muscular Dystrophy Canada, please contact a Services Specialist in your region.

To learn more about the Canadian Neuromuscular Disease Registry, click here.

 

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Partenariats en action

L’année dernière, une nouvelle initiative éducationnelle s’est tenue grâce au soutien de Dystrophie musculaire Canada. En collaboration avec deux hôpitaux pour enfants de Toronto, le Holland Bloorview et le SickKids, cette initiative a pris la forme d’une journée familiale pour les enfants, jeunes adultes et adultes atteints d’amyotrophie spinale (AS) ainsi que pour leurs parents et aidants. La D^re Reshma Amin explique comment l’idée de cette journée a vu le jour.

« Je travaille à la clinique de soins respiratoires complexes du Hospital for Sick Children avec le D^r Theo Moraes, Cathy Daniels, infirmière praticienne, Faiza Syed, inhalothérapeute, et Ellie Lathrop, travailleuse sociale. Notre équipe assure le suivi d’enfants qui dépendent des technologies respiratoires telles que les appareils à deux niveaux de pression positive et la ventilation invasive. Plusieurs de ces enfants ont une maladie neuromusculaire comme l’amyotrophie spinale et sont souvent suivis en même temps au Holland Bloorview Rehabilitation Hospital pour leurs soins neuromusculaires par la D^re Laura McAdam, coprésidente de cet événement, et son équipe. Un jour, à la clinique, pendant que nous discutions de la transition vers les soins de santé pour adultes, un adolescent a mentionné qu’il voulait aller à l’université et qu’il aimerait bien pouvoir parler à un autre jeune adulte atteint d’AS déjà à l’université. Ceci nous a fait penser qu’il serait intéressant d’organiser une activité familiale éducationnelle pour faciliter les échanges entre enfants atteints d’AS et leur permettre de parler de questions touchant « la vraie vie ».

L’activité a fait salle comble, avec une centaine de participants, la plupart de la région du Grand Toronto mais aussi de Thunder Bay (ON) et du Nouveau-Brunswick. L’objectif de la journée? « Sensibiliser davantage le milieu à l’amyotrophie spinale et mieux informer les aidants et les enfants atteints d’AS », explique la D^re Amin. « Nous voulions plus particulièrement rehausser les connaissances des familles et des enfants en ce qui concerne les impacts médicaux et psychosociaux de la maladie. Nous voulions aussi offrir un lieu de rencontre permettant de favoriser des relations de soutien entre les familles touchées. Enfin, nous voulions que les enfants et leur famille soit informés des recherches scientifiques en cours sur l’amyotrophie spinale. »

La journée a consisté à écouter de nombreux conférenciers, à participer à des discussions et à réseauter.

« Nos conférenciers sont reconnus internationalement pour leur travail dans le domaine de l’amyotrophie spinale. Le D^r John Bach, professeur de physiatrie et de réadaptation à l’University Hospital de Newark, au New Jersey, qui possède une expérience sans pareille des personnes atteintes d’AS, a fait un survol de la gestion respiratoire de l’AS qui avait de quoi faire réfléchir. Brian Weaver, MS, RRT-NPS, RPFT, inhalothérapeute et chef de département du Kimble Medical Center de Newark au New Jersey, a présenté une revue pratique des complications respiratoires et du rôle des technologies respiratoires pour les enfants atteints d’AS. Le D^r Alex Mackenzie, scientifique et clinicien du Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, a offert une revue de haut niveau de la recherche sur l’amyotrophie spinale et des essais cliniques pour enfants qui en sont atteints, présentement en cours et prévus. Il y avait beaucoup d’autres conférenciers, dont Tracy Lacey, président de Fight SMA Canada, son mari Shawn et leur fille Tori, atteinte d’AS, qui ont donné un aperçu pratique de la vie avec un enfant atteint d’AS, depuis les modifications requises au domicile jusqu’aux questions touchant la scolarisation. Le D^r Adam Rapoport, directeur médical de l’équipe de soins pédiatriques avancés du SickKids Hospital a renseigné les familles sur les services de soutien que l’hôpital offre aux enfants et aux familles. Karen Dunbar, spécialiste des services de Dystrophie musculaire Canada pour l’Ontario et le Nunavut, a offert un survol pragmatique et informatif des services et mesures de soutien que son organisme offre aux enfants et familles touchées par l’AS. La D^r Laura McAdam a parlé pour sa part du Canadian Neuromuscular Disease Registry, un registre de patients établi en vue d’aider les cliniciens et les scientifiques à améliorer les soins cliniques des enfants atteints de maladies neuromusculaires. Il y a aussi eu des sessions sur la façon de s’occuper d’un enfant atteint d’une maladie chronique, d’améliorer l’autonomie des adolescents qui ont une maladie chronique ainsi qu’un atelier réservé aux adolescents ayant l’AS. »

De l’avis d’Angela McGonigal, dont le fils, Owen, a l’amyotrophie spinale, la journée comportait de nombreux aspects intéressants, notamment le partage d’information sur la santé et la possibilité de réseauter avec des gens qui sont dans la même situation.

« Brian Weaver est un inhalothérapeute qui a travaillé étroitement avec le D^r Bach. C’est un ardent défenseur du recours aux appareils d’assistance à la toux pour les patients atteints d’AS. Lorsqu’un enfant AS est malade, il conseille d’utiliser l’appareil d’assistance à la toux aux trois heures pendant la journée, rappelle Angela. Il recommande aussi d’éviter l’oxygénothérapie puisqu’elle masque les problèmes de ventilation tels que les sécrétions. Il encourage la physiothérapie respiratoire et recommande de positionner le torse plus haut que la tête pour faciliter le drainage. »

L’information fournie par Karen Dunbar, la spécialiste des services de Dystrophie musculaire Canada pour l’Ontario et le Nunavut, a aussi été très utile. « Elle a parlé du financement disponible pour l’adaptation du domicile et du programme d’aides techniques. Les familles, médecins, thérapeutes, infirmières, travailleurs sociaux et autres personnes concernées par le suivi des patients AS étaient tous fort bien représentés. Ce fut une excellente occasion de s’informer, de réfléchir et de réseauter », ajoute M^me McGonigal.

La D^re Amin a aussi entendu des commentaires très positifs chez les participants. « L’un d’eux m’a dit qu’il se sentait informé, inspiré et connecté. À la fin de la journée, on nous a aussi demandé quand se tiendrait cette activité l’année prochaine. »

Clients, parents, aidants et professionnels médicaux, tous les participants ont appris quelque chose de neuf et rencontré des gens intéressants. Un événement a plus particulièrement marqué la D^re Amin  « C’était à la fin de la journée, lors d’un débat réunissant un panel d’adolescents et de jeunes adultes atteints d’amyotrophie spinale. Le public pouvait leur poser des questions et leurs réponses étaient éclairées et inspirantes. On a demandé à une jeune adulte atteinte Quelle est la chose que vous voudriez changer dans votre vie si vous le pouviez? Sa réponse : changer la façon dont les gens la regardent dans son fauteuil roulant. Elle rêve d’un monde où les enfants qui sont différents seraient mieux acceptés. Ses mots ont trouvé un écho chez tous ceux qui étaient présents. En tant que professionnel de la santé, voilà un objectif que nous devons tous contribuer à réaliser, pour le bien de ces enfants. »

« Nous espérons que les participants sont repartis avec de meilleures connaissances au sujet des soins et des complications respiratoires chez les enfants atteints d’amyotrophie spinale », ajoute la D^re Amin. « Nous voulions aussi les sensibiliser davantage à l’impact qu’a un enfant AS sur la famille, et plus particulièrement aux conséquences sociales et psychosociales de la maladie au moment des différentes transitions qui surviennent au cours d’une vie. Nous espérons aussi avoir favorisé une discussion plus ouverte entre les professionnels de la santé, les aidants et les enfants, lors de cette rencontre mais aussi pour l’avenir. Surtout, nous espérons avoir encouragé l’établissement et le renforcement d’un réseau de soutien pour les familles des enfants atteints d’AS. Enfin, nous voulions fournir aux familles une information complète sur le registre et sur d’autres recherches sur la maladie afin qu’ils puissent choisir d’y participer ou non en toute connaissance de cause. »

La très forte participation et les commentaires unanimement positifs de cette journée soulignent l’importance de la collaboration entre les hôpitaux, les centres de soins, les centres de recherche et les organismes sans but lucratif et illustre l’importance pour le suivi des personnes qui vivent avec une maladie neuromusculaire de la mise en commun de l’information et des ressources, non seulement pour ce qui est de la recherche mais aussi en termes de services. « Qu’il s’agisse du Hospital for Sick Children, du Holland Bloorview Rehabilitation Hospital ou de Dystrophie musculaire Canada, nous nous efforçons tous de fournir aux enfants et à leur famille de meilleurs soins centrés sur les patients », explique la D^re Amin. « Il est essentiels que des partenariats solides soient établis entre tous les hôpitaux et les OSBL pour faciliter les transitions de l’hôpital à la maison ainsi que pour soutenir ces familles dans leur milieu propre », ajoute la D^re Amin. « Ainsi, le soutien financier de Dystrophie musculaire Canada pour les technologies respiratoires facilite l’acquisition d’appareils d’assistance mécanique à la toux pour nos patients, ce qui améliore leur santé pulmonaire dans son ensemble et contribue à garder ces enfants à l’école et hors de l’hôpital. »

Et bien sûr, c’est là l’objectif ultime pour tous.

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Le Spinal Muscular Atrophy Family Education Day a été organisé conjointement par le SickKids Hospital et le Holland Bloorview Rehabilitation Hospital. Cette journée a été rendue possible par le généreux soutien de Dystrophie musculaire Canada, la SickKids Foundation, Fight SMA Canada et Lifetronics.

Pour plus d’information sur l’amyotrophie spinale et sur les autres maladies neuromusculaires, cliquez ici. Pour en savoir plus sur les programmes qu’offre Dystrophie musculaire Canada, nous vous invitons à contacter notre spécialiste des services de votre région.

Filling Boots in Sudbury

Fire Fighters organize events year-round and help raise funds in support of those affected by neuromuscular disorders.   The most successful fundraiser is the Fill the Boot.  Fire Fighters hold out their boots in parking lots, in front of stores and even on the streets and ask the generous public if they would like to voluntarily make a donation.  The Sudbury Professional Fire Fighters Association Local 527 has been involved with Muscular Dystrophy Canada since 1972, and to date have raised $471,071.74! This year, with the help of local resident Kathy, Sudbury PFFA raised $34,120.20!

Kathy’s family is affected by neuromuscular disorders so she is very passionate about the great work Fire Fighters do for those affected.  She saves her money so she can visit their annual Fill the Boot and give a generous donation.  As a way to thank her, the Fire Fighters from Local 527 invited Kathy to spend an afternoon with them in their main station in late November.

Kathy says, “From the extensive tour of the station, to the company of such thoughtful individuals who give so freely to a cause they believe in, to the honour of breaking bread with such special people, to my privileged ride on the most mammoth piece of equipment, I’ve ever ridden in, to the totally unexpected gift of the magnificent flowers and the very touching greeting card– my word, how special you all made this woman feel yesterday!

I was particularly delighted to see that one of the pictures captured precisely the little girl thrill I felt to find myself on the hook and ladder!

My home wafts with the delightful smell of those glorious flowers and when I close my eyes, I smile and remember all those handsome faces with whom I shared time on November 28th.

Scott, please ensure that your colleagues in SPFFA Local 527 know that they qualify as heroes because they care so deeply about the community they serve. It was a pleasure to meet so many of the Fire Fighters who help Fill the Boot.  I trust that I communicated my deep gratitude to all present for their commitment to finding a cure to those neuromuscular disorders, including the variety that affects my family. Hopefully, the members now have a personal ‘face’ to attach to their efforts!

We have a target to beat next September… I’ve already begun saving!”

Scott Roper, the Muscular Dystrophy Canada Chairperson for Sudbury PFFA responded to Kathy by saying, “­­­­­­ You are most welcome and it was nice to have finally met you.  Thursday was just a small token to what you have given back to this community over the last few years and for that, we are thankful for it.  I was saying to my wife the other night, seeing you on Thursday and watching how happy you were, makes my decision 15 years ago to become a Fire Fighter, worth every penny and heartache to achieve my goal.  Helping out in the community is the most beneficial part of our job and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Thanks again and look forward to seeing you next year, at the Fill the Boot.  Maybe you could collect some money with us for a few minutes.”

Thank you to Kathy and the Fire Fighters from Sudbury PFFA Local 527 for sharing your amazing experience with us! We are grateful for your generosity and to the people of Sudbury who donated to the Fill the Boot campaign.

 

Learn to Make Yourself Happy

Happiness. You can’t fight the feeling when you feel it, and you can’t hide it when you crave what it used to be. I thought certain aspects of life might tear me down – especially with what others might think – but I have never allowed myself to be defined by what other people had to say about who I was. It was through lessons, and challenging myself that got me to where I am now. I learned to put myself first. Yes, sometimes there are individuals who see my flaws, and perceive them as something they don’t want to deal with –it’s just easier that way. Unfortunately, I cannot walk away from myself, and I’m not sure I ever would. I am able to accept my weaknesses, and nobody can use that against me. I know who I am, and who I am not. Yes, we all want to be accepted, and loved. But it has to start with yourself.

I want you to be happy. I want you to not rush getting a mortgage, getting married, or growing up. When I was younger, all I wanted was to grow up. I wanted to wear make-up, and drive a car and feel the wind blowing in my hair. Now, I’d trade everything to start over, and appreciate those days spent making snow forts, and eating popsicles. You can’t go back, but you can step back. When I stepped back, I had a chance to see what I could not see before. I saw what was worth fighting for, I felt my life get brighter, and at the same time I felt my heart become emptier. I found kindness where I did not even know it existed. So have patience in today, in tomorrow. Learn to love yourself, even within in the things you cannot change.

Being happy with yourself is something you have to learn. It’s something that will not happen overnight. Waiting for my diagnosis, there were many days where I would distract myself with school, friends, family- anything so I didn’t have to think about it. Behind it all, I wasn’t happy. Which is why I held back on so many things; things I now regret. Somehow, I knew in my heart, I could not love someone unless I loved myself first. Nobody was going to fill the gap for me. I had to do it for myself. Now, after years (yes, years) of growing and learning, I am at peace with myself. I found happiness not by what I gained, but by doing what I was willing to endure.

I hope you find happiness, and I hope it starts with yourself. I hope you don’t settle just because you think it’s what you’re supposed to be doing. Most importantly, I hope you never lose sight of the most important things in life, the things money can’t buy. Take time to reflect on life. Take time to take care of yourself. You deserve it. If you want to start over, every day will bring you a new chance. Don’t worry about what’s going on around you. You’re not meant to follow the crowd in society, you’re not meant to lose yourself out there. Nobody who has ever achieved anything great has followed the book or the crowd. Everything can be taken from you: your possessions; your health; your rights. But nobody can take away what is in your heart, your thoughts, and the freedom to use both. To be happy with yourself will not take a day. It took me lots of little steps to be able to reach where I am now. Not everything will be easy and perhaps far from what you expected, but you must choose to be grateful for all that you have. Happiness comes from knowing that this is your only chance to live this life, no matter how it turns out.

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Ivana was born in Sanski Most, Bosnia & Herzegovina, but moved to Canada at the age of three. She was diagnosed with LGMD a few years ago, and it has forever changed her life. She is a regular contributor, and her blogs will be everything she has learned along the way, and what she continues to learn today.

2014 Walk for Muscular Dystrophy Contest highlights Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s 60 Years of Progress

The 2014 Walk for Muscular Dystrophy season is fast-approaching so it’s time to get registered and kick-start your fundraising efforts. To recognize Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s 60th year, 60 Walk for Muscular Dystrophy events will be taking place across the country. In honour of the occasion, we are holding a new contest!

Register and raise $60 online at least 60 days before your local Walk for Muscular Dystrophy event and you will be entered for a chance to win an iPad!

Some Ontario Walk for Muscular Dystrophy events are coming up quickly! Raise your $60 by February 26^th for the NEW Guelph & Area event, by February 27^th for the Windsor Walk and by March 4^th for the Toronto Walk to be entered for a chance to win! Be sure to register today!

If you have any questions about the contest, feel free to get in touch with us a walkformusculardystrophy.on@muscle.ca or 1-866-687-2538 ext 131.

We look forward to seeing you at this year’s Walk for Muscular Dystrophy events!

Jerry Lewis: A Champion of Awareness

La version française suit.

The Jerry Lewis Telethon was a staple over Labour Day weekend for many years, and raising billions of dollars, and awareness for neuromuscular disorders from all across North America. For many of these  years,  local call centres were set up across Canada, and provided local content for viewers in Canada. It was a huge undertaking for everyone involved, but it was always a highlight of the year. In 2010, Lewis hosted his last Telethon, though the show still continues as the ‘MDA Show of Strength.’

Later this month, on February 28^th, Jerry Lewis will be presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award from Hollywood’s union publicists.The award celebrates Lewis’s large body of work in the entertainment industry, as well as his storied work with Muscular Dystrophy Canada, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and Jerry’s Kids.

Below is a press release that was published on August 30, 1974, at the peak of the Telethon popularity, announcing that there will be more Canadian pledge centres than previous years:

Six Canadian Cities Host Pledge Centres for Jerry Lewis Telethon

TORONTO: Canadians watching the Jerry Lewis Telethon to raise money to fight muscular dystrophy on Labour Day this year will be able to telephone pledge centres in six Canadian cities. This is an increase of two since last year and is up from two pledge centres in 1972.

In operation for the full length of the Telethon, the centres will be manned by more than 800 volunteers from 10:30 p.m. Sunday September 1 until 6:30 p.m. Monday, September 2.

The pledge centres will be located as follows: For viewers of WGR-TV, in Hamilton, where the toll free number will be 800-263-9944. For viewers of WWNY-TV (Watertown,) in Ottawa, where the toll free number will be 613-238-2811.

For viewers of WWNY-TV, in Kingston, Ontario, the toll free number will be 613-549-3300. For viewers of WWNY-TV, in Brockville, Ontario, the toll free number will be 613-342-8721.

The two new pledge centres will be reached as follows: for Vancouver area viewers of KSTW-TV, dial 604-433-3211. For Winnipeg area viewers of KCND, dial 204-755-0221. Both numbers will be toll free.

All money pledged by Canadians to fight muscular dystrophy will remain in Canada to help finance Canadian research projects and to provide more patient services.

Muscular dystrophy is a disease that in more than 50 per cent of all cases afflicts only boys, first crippling them and then shortening their lives to an average of just 20 years. The Muscular Dystrophy Association of Canada spends its money on trying to find a cure for the terrible illness and to continue its services to patients.

The Jerry Lewis Telethon will originate from the Space Centre at the Hotel Sahara in Las Vegas and will be carried by 172 television stations. More than 120 celebrities have already signed to appear on the Show which will include live pickups from Nashville and New York.

Jerry Lewis says he expects that by show time, more than 150 stars will agree to appear.

Among those who are scheduled to join Jerry Lewis and anchorman Ed McMahon in Las Vegas are Anna Maria Alberghetti, Jack Benny, John Davidson, Fats Domino, Chad Everett, Totie Fields, the Mickey Finn Show, David Hartman, Joey Hetherton, Arte Johnson, Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme, Michel LeGrand, Ida Lupino, Johnny Mathis, Jan Murray, Jim Nabors, Louise Nettleton, Wayne Newton, George Segal, Susan Strasberg, Mel Tormé, Jerry Vale and Dionne Warwicke.

The Nashville segment of the Telethon will be hosted by Johnny Cash. His guests include the Nashville Brass, Bobby Goldsboro, Dolly Parton and Charlie Rich.

The New York Show will be hosted by Dorothy Collins. Among those scheduled to appear with her are Muhammad Ali, Sammy Cahn, Godfrey Cambridge, Carol Channing, the Electric Company, Geraldine Fitzgerald, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Richie Havens, Helen Hayes, Aliza Kashi, B.B. King, La Lupe, Julius LaRosa, Kay Medford, Soupy Sales and Enzo Stuarti.

Behind the scenes at telethon locations throughout Canada and the United States, over 100,000 volunteers will run more than 1,000 pledge centres.

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Jerry Lewis, un champion de la sensibilisation

Le Téléthon Jerry Lewis a été une tradition du week-end de la fête du Travail pendant de nombreuses années, sensibilisant l’ensemble du public nord-américain aux maladies neuromusculaires et recueillant des milliards de dollars pour cette cause. Pendant plusieurs de ces années, des centres d’appels étaient en fonction dans diverses localités canadiennes, offrant un contexte local aux téléspectateurs canadiens, un travail énorme pour toutes les personnes impliquées mais toujours un point fort de l’année. En 2010, Jerry Lewis a animé son dernier téléthon, bien que l’émission se poursuive toujours sous l’appellation « MDA Show of Strength » à l’initiative de la MDA, l’association américaine de la dystrophie musculaire.

Plus tard ce mois-ci, le 28 février, le syndicat des publicitaires d’Hollywood remettra à Jerry Lewis un Prix d’excellence pour l’ensemble de ses réalisations, soulignant la place importante de ce comédien dans l’industrie du divertissement mais aussi son appui colossal à Dystrophie musculaire Canada, à la Muscular Dystrophy Association américaine et aux « enfants de Jerry ».

Voici un communiqué de presse publié le 30 août 1974, alors que la popularité du Téléthon Jerry Lewis atteignait son sommet, indiquant qu’il y aurait plus de centres d’appel canadiens que les années passées pour recueillir les dons du public.

Des centres d’appels dans six villes canadiennes pour le Téléthon Jerry Lewis

TORONTO — Cette année, les téléspectateurs canadiens du Téléthon Jerry Lewis, qui vise à recueillir des dons pour lutter contre la dystrophie musculaire le jour de la fête du Travail, auront la possibilité de faire un don par téléphone dans six villes du Canada, soit deux centres de plus que l’an dernier et quatre de plus que la première fois en 1972.

En fonction pendant toute la durée du Téléthon, plus de 800 bénévoles assureront la bonne marche des opérations de 22 h 30 le dimanche 1^er septembre à 18 h 30 le lundi 2 septembre.

Voici les numéros pour joindre les centres d’appels : pour les téléspectateurs de WGT-TV à Hamilton, le numéro sans frais est le 800 263-9944; pour les téléspectateurs de WWNY-TV (Watertown) à Ottawa, le numéro sans frais est le 613 238-2811.

Les téléspectateurs de WWNY-TV à Kingston, Ontario, doivent composer sans frais le 613 549-3300, tandis que ceux de WWNY-TV à Brockville, Ontario composeront sans frais le 613 342-8721.

Les deux nouveaux centres d’appels pourront être joints comme suit : les téléspectateurs de KSTW-TV dans la région de Vancouver pourront composer le 604 433-3211 et ceux de KCND dans la région de Winnipeg composeront le 204 755-0221, le tout sans frais.

Les sommes recueillies au Canada pour lutter contre la dystrophie musculaire demeureront au pays pour aider à financer des projets de recherche canadiens et fournir des services à un plus grand nombre de patients.

La dystrophie musculaire est une maladie qui, dans plus de 50 % de tous les cas, n’affecte que les garçons, les rendant d’abord infirmes puis abrégeant leur vie à tout juste 20 ans en moyenne. L’Association canadienne de la dystrophie musculaire dépense son argent pour essayer de trouver un moyen de guérir cette terrible maladie et pour continuer à donner des services aux patients.

Le Téléthon Jerry Lewis sera diffusé à partir du Space Centre de l’hôtel Sahara de Las Vegas et sera relayée par 172 stations de télévision. Plus de 120 célébrités ont déjà confirmé leur présence à l’émission qui comprendra des segments en direct de Nashville et New York.

Jerry Lewis s’attend à ce qu’au moment de la diffusion du Téléthon, plus de 150 vedettes auront accepté d’y participer.

Parmi celles dont la présence est prévue aux côtés de Jerry Lewis et du présentateur vedette Ed McMahon à Las Vegas, mentionnons Anna Maria Alberghetti, Jack Benny, John Davidson, Fats Domino, Chad Everett, Totie Fields, the Mickey Finn Show, David Hartman, Joey Hetherton, Arte Johnson, Steve Lawrence et Eydie Gorme, Michel LeGrand, Ida Lupino, Johnny Mathis, Jan Murray, Jim Nabors, Louise Nettleton, Wayne Newton, George Segal, Susan Strasberg, Mel Tormé, Jerry Vale and Dionne Warwick.

Le segment de Nashville sera animé par Johnny Cash. Le Nashville Brass, Bobby Goldsboro, Dolly Parton et Charlie Rich seront au nombre des invités.

Le spectacle de New York sera animé par Dorothy Collins et devrait recevoir Muhammad Ali, Sammy Cahn, Godfrey Cambridge, Carol Channing, The Electric Company, Geraldine Fitzgerald, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Richie Havens, Helen Hayes, Aliza Kashi, B.B. King, La Lupe, Julius LaRosa, Kay Medford, Soupy Sales et Enzo Stuarti.

En coulisse aux divers emplacements du téléthon au Canada et aux États-Unis, plus de 100 000 bénévoles assureront le fonctionnement de plus de 1 000 centres d’appels.

Team Junior is gearing up for another exciting year at Walk for Muscular Dystrophy!

My name is Melissa Basil and this will be my 5^th time participating in the annual Waterloo Region Walk for Muscular Dystrophy! My family and I are very excited to be participating once again this year because this Walk is a great way to raise awareness of neuromuscular disorders such as MD. It is also a great way to meet other families who may be experiencing the same triumphs and challenges as we do; families who understand our story.  Originally, I decided to participate in this annual Walk because I thought it would be a great way to support my younger brother, Junior, who was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at the age of 5. Now, Junior is 19 years old and I feel it is important to continue to show him my support, hence I come out every year. Not only have I been participating in this Walk, but my family as well as my extended family and friends have continued to participate and show support for this cause. Each year our team (team Junior) has gotten bigger and bigger! We feel that it is important to participate and fundraise because not only are we raising awareness and making connections with others in our community, but we are also raising funds that will aid families who need equipment as well as research for a cure which is something we have longed for, for many years.

The Walk for Muscular Dystrophy is not only a Walk to raise awareness and fundraise, but it is also a fantastic way to build and strengthen the community! It’s always a great feeling meeting a family who is experiencing the same challenges as mine and knowing that we are not alone in this fight against MD.  It is lovely to see families connecting at these Walk events, forming life-long friendships.

My participation in the Walk for Muscular Dystrophy has made me feel great in the fact that I know I have supported a great cause. I feel satisfied in knowing that I am helping other families like mine receive the assistance they need. It also makes me feel more hopeful that a cure may just be around the corner! Please join my family and I as we participate in the 2014 Walk for Muscular Dystrophy!

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Melissa Basil has been participating in the Waterloo Region Walk for Muscular Dystrophy since its inception. She walks with her team of family and friends in support of her younger brother, Junior. Melissa joined the volunteer planning committee last year and enjoys being a part of this community event.

Speaking of Adventure

I recently watched an interview with Diane Sawyer and I really liked a piece of advice her father gave her. He said, “Do what you love, do it in the most adventurous place, and make sure it helps people.” I had a previous blog that was all about the importance of being more involved and helping as much as you can. Now, I am hoping to cover the adventurous part of Diane Sawyer’s father’s advice.

There will be a lot of people telling you what is best for you. I am sure there are lots of people who want to keep you inside a safe little bubble and tell you that because of your disability or some other limitation (money, education, etc.,) that some things just aren’t possible for you. Can I tell you something? Their wrong… Before my diagnosis was even confirmed, my parents were skeptical about sending me to school away from home because they knew some things would take longer for me to do and I would get tired more easily, but I did not want that kind of life. I did not want to not try. So despite everything, I went my own way. I had a feeling inside me, a light that was not ready to die down. At the end of the day, I did not want to stop living the life I dreamed for myself just because something was trying to slow me down. Yes, I have had to take some detours and maybe running the marathon isn’t in the books for me anymore, but it doesn’t mean I have to give up on all the adventures. Living on my own for five years, I learned to be who I was and learned to live with all that I was not.

If you want to go somewhere, do your research and know there is always a way. I find that no matter where you go, the world is very accommodating. I was at an airport in Germany a few years ago and the moment I stepped off the plane there was an employee that showed me the route to the elevators and to baggage claim. Going into a different country I thought I would be struggling, but everyone was very kind and I never had a problem. So if you want to have an adventure, go. This could be as simple as going to a part of the city you have always wanted to explore, or as elaborate as visiting a different country. Travel the world as much as you can because those experiences cannot be bought and you will be so grateful for all the adventures you take.

Do what you love, no matter how badly it starts off. Do what makes you happy because sometimes, what you do can make all the difference in the world. If you don’t have a plan, that’s okay! You are allowed to get lost because you will get through it. Be brave and believe in something bigger than you – something that you might even never understand. Work hard and risk it even if you don’t know what you are doing. You will not go empty handed. What you will discover, at the least, is yourself. I had a choice, just as you do: to live a life of conformity and have a peace of mind, or to let go of what you are holding onto so tightly- security. I do not know where I would be had I picked security. It would have been easy to say yes to everyone around me; however, I know it would have been more damaging. Adventure gave me time, it gave me hope, and I promise you, adventure will give you life.

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Ivana was born in Sanski Most, Bosnia & Herzegovina, but moved to Canada at the age of three. She was diagnosed with LGMD a few years ago, and it has forever changed her life/ She is a regular contributor, and her blogs will be everything she has learned along the way, and what she continues to learn today.

How It Began

La version française suit.

In order for any organization to be formed, there must be a need. To be successful in filling the need, the organization must have strong leadership, and clear goals, in addition to a fueling passion. All of these apply to the forming of The Muscular Dystrophy Association of Canada (renamed Muscular Dystrophy Canada in 2003.)

Two good friends, Arthur Minden, who ran a law practice that grew to be a prominent firm, and Dr. David Green, an Otolaryngologist as well as a plastic surgeon, became aware of the need for research and resources for those with neuromuscular disorders when Dr. Green’s son was diagnosed at the age of seven with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Mr. Minden also had a son the same age, and wondered why Dr. Green’s son and not mine? It was hard to know that one boy had the whole world in front of him, while the other did not. Mr. Minden and Dr. Green, together with other friends and families with the same goals of finding a cure or control for neuromuscular disorders formed the MDAC in 1954. First meetings were held in the founders’ homes, and together they grew the organization with passion and dedication to the cause. The mission that drove the organization’s work, and still does, is to enhance the lives of those affected by neuromuscular disorders by continually working to provide ongoing support and resources while relentlessly searching for a cure through well funded research.

Mr. Minden was the President of the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Canada from its inception in 1954, through to the ten year anniversary in 1964. He brought Canadian Fire Fighters on board with our mission.  Fire Fighters have remained our number one supporters through all our 60 years. Mr. Minden was also instrumental in connecting Jerry Lewis to the Canadian Association, paving the way for the Labour Day Telethon to be broadcasted in Canada. Mr. Minden became Chairman of the Board until his passing in 1966.

Dr. Green acted as Vice-President of the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Canada from its founding until 1962. Dr. Green took on the challenge of introducing the MDAC into a market that many felt was already overrun with charities; however, a few years later in 1958, MDAC was recognized as one of Canada’s top 10 health organizations.  After this period, Dr. Green became President of MDAC after Mr. Minden retired from the position, and took over the Chairman of the Board position after Mr. Minden’s passing until 1976. During his period of being Chairman of the Board (1966-1976) beginning in 1967, Dr. Green was also the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Board. In 2002, Dr. Green was awarded with the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal for his significant contribution to Canadian society.  Dr. Green passed away in 2007. In 2010, the National Awards were re-named the Dr. David Green Awards, and they are rewarded to showcase the contributions of individuals or groups who inspire, motivate, and share their commitment with others, and foster Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s vision, mission, and values.

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Comment tout a commencé

La formation de toute organisation répond d’abord à un besoin et pour réussir à combler ce besoin, l’organisation doit posséder un leadership fort, avoir des objectifs précis et être alimentée par une grande passion. Tous ces éléments étaient réunis lors de la fondation de l’Association canadienne de la dystrophie musculaire (ACDM), qui devait prendre le nom de Dystrophie musculaire Canada en 2003.

En 1954, deux bons amis, Arthur Minden, qui dirigeait un cabinet d’avocats appelé à devenir une firme importante, et le D^r David Green, otolaryngologiste et chirurgien plastique, constatent le peu de recherches et de ressources disponibles pour les personnes atteintes de maladies neuromusculaires lorsque le fils du D^r Green reçoit un diagnostic de dystrophie musculaire de Duchenne à l’âge de sept ans. Cela pousse Arthur Minden, qui avait un garçon du même âge, à se demander pourquoi le fils de son ami et pas le sien? Il était difficile de savoir que l’un des deux garçons avait toute la vie devant lui et l’autre non. C’est à ce moment qu’Arthur Minden et le D^r Green, avec l’appui d’amis et de parents, soucieux comme eux de trouver un moyen de guérir ou du moins de contrôler les maladies neuromusculaires, fondent l’ACDM.

Les premières rencontres se tiennent aux domiciles des fondateurs qui, tous deux, assurent la croissance de leur organisme avec passion et dévouement à la cause. L’action de l’ACDM était guidée par sa mission, la même qu’aujourd’hui : améliorer la vie des personnes atteintes de maladies neuromusculaires en finançant adéquatement la recherche d’un traitement curatif, en fournissant des services et en assurant un soutien constant.

M. Minden présida l’Association de sa fondation en 1954 jusqu’au dixième anniversaire de l’organisme en 1964. C’est lui qui recruta l’appui des pompiers à notre mission et, tout au long de nos 60 ans d’existence, ceux-ci ont toujours été nos plus grands partisans. C’est aussi sous la présidence d’Arthur Minden que l’Association s’est associée à Jerry Lewis, ce qui allait ouvrir la voie au téléthon diffusé au Canada chaque fin de semaine de la fête du Travail. M. Minden fut président du conseil d’administration jusqu’à son décès en 1966.

Le D^r Green, pour sa part, a assumé les fonctions de vice-président de l’Association canadienne de la dystrophie musculaire de sa fondation jusqu’à 1962, relevant le défi d’insérer l’organisme dans un marché qui, selon plusieurs, était déjà saturé d’organismes de bienfaisance. Il ne fallut toutefois que quelques années pour que l’ACDM se classe, en 1958, au nombre des 10 organismes caritatifs canadiens en santé les plus importants. Le D^r Green devait par la suite succéder à M. Minden à la présidence de l’ACDM, puis au poste de président du conseil après le décès de celui-ci, et ce, jusqu’en 1976. À compter de 1967, le D^r Green préside aussi le conseil consultatif médical. En 2002, il reçoit la médaille du Jubilé de la Reine pour l’importance de sa contribution à la société canadienne. Le D^r Green est décédé en 2007. En 2010, Dystrophie musculaire Canada renommait les prix nationaux de son programme de reconnaissance pour honorer sa mémoire. Chaque année, les Prix D^r David-Green soulignent la contribution de personnes et de groupes qui inspirent et motivent les gens de leur entourage et partagent avec eux leur engagement envers la réalisation de la vision, de la mission et des valeurs de Dystrophie musculaire Canada.