February is a time to celebrate love, kindness and connection, and at Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada, it is also a moment to recognize the volunteers who lead with heart every single day. Our volunteers are the backbone of our community. They show up with compassion, generosity and a deep commitment to ensuring that no one affected by a brain tumour feels alone.

This month, we are honoured to spotlight a few remarkable individuals who were nominated by our staff for their unwavering dedication, empathy and impact. Each of these volunteers reminds us that volunteering is not just about giving time. It is about creating connection, easing isolation and offering hope when it is needed most.

Joline Leblanc

Nominated by our colleague Amanda Hudder

Joline Leblanc truly embodies what it means to be a Volunteer from the Heart. As a long-standing volunteer, Joline consistently shows up with kindness, patience and deep empathy, creating a safe and welcoming space for people navigating some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

Joline has an extraordinary ability to listen and connect with others in a way that makes them feel seen, heard and supported. Her compassion and warmth have had a meaningful and lasting impact on our community. Through her presence, she reminds others that they are not alone and that support can come in many forms, including a caring conversation and a steady, understanding presence.

Joline leads with heart in everything she does. Her dedication is a beautiful example of how volunteering builds connection, reduces isolation and spreads hope throughout the brain tumour community.

Lorena Neitsch

Nominated by our colleague Ben (BrainWAVE Program)

Lorena Neitsch has been a devoted member of the Edmonton-area BrainWAVE community since 2017, supporting her son Jason, who sadly passed away from a brain tumour in November 2024. Even through profound loss, Lorena has continued to show up for other families with strength and unwavering commitment.

Over the years, Lorena has volunteered at brain tumour conferences, workshops, galas, Brain Tumour Walks and caregiver retreats. She has remained actively involved in the BrainWAVE program following her son’s passing, demonstrating an extraordinary dedication to supporting pediatric brain tumour families in Edmonton and beyond.

Most recently, Lorena played a key role in organizing a BrainWAVE event with the CFL Edmonton Elks, welcoming 23 community members and engaging a new family through a unique and memorable experience. Lorena is thoughtful, kind and always considers what will best serve the brain tumour community. Her commitment reflects the very heart of our mission: to reach every person in Canada affected by a brain tumour through support, education, information and research.

Christine Leung

Nominated by our colleague Nes

Christine Leung is the embodiment of what it means to be a Brain Tumour Walk volunteer. Actively involved in both the Brampton and Toronto Walks, Christine consistently shows up with energy, generosity and a deep belief in the mission of Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada.

Christine has gone above and beyond by leveraging her workplace at RBC to raise awareness, encourage colleagues to get involved and connect us with new volunteers. She has also opened doors within her community by offering space and visibility for Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada at charity events she organizes through RBC in Mississauga.

What sets Christine apart is her willingness to use her voice, networks and time to create real impact. She does not simply volunteer. She actively champions the Walk and the people behind it, helping to build momentum, community and meaningful change wherever she goes.

Danielle Boyle

Nominated by our colleague Nes

Danielle Boyle is a passionate advocate for the brain tumour community and a long-time supporter of Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada. Through her advocacy work in Parliament in Ottawa, Danielle has played a key role in proclaiming Brain Tumour Awareness Month, ensuring that the voices of patients, survivors and families are heard at the highest levels.

Danielle’s commitment extends well beyond a single moment or campaign. She consistently shows up with purpose, helping elevate awareness, advance important conversations and keep brain tumours on the public agenda. Her advocacy has contributed to greater visibility and understanding of an often-overlooked disease, helping build momentum for meaningful change.

Thank you for leading with heart!

To Joline, Lorena, Christine and Danielle, and to all of our volunteers across the country, thank you. Your compassion, dedication and generosity make a profound difference in the lives of people affected by a brain tumour.

This February, and always, we celebrate our Volunteers from the Heart. You remind us that hope is built through connection and that no one has to face this journey alone.