Janet Hempler, of Spruce Grove, Alta., is the recipient of our Volunteer of Distinction Legacy of Service Award. 

This award recognizes a volunteer with a longstanding commitment to the brain tumour community. It recognizes those whose dedication, leadership and service have created lasting positive change and leave behind a powerful legacy that continues to inspire future generations. 

Can you share your connection to the brain tumour community?  

I was diagnosed with an oligodendroglioma in 2014, and shortly after, I began attending an adult support group through Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada. Listening to others share their stories and having them listen to mine was incredibly therapeutic. When the facilitator stepped away, I took on that role. Soon after, I became involved with the Edmonton Brain Tumour Walk, and I’ve been involved ever since.  

As this year’s theme for National Volunteer Week is ‘Ignite Volunteerism,’ award winners were asked to answer the following questions with this theme in mind. 

What sparked your decision to volunteer with Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada? 

My decision to volunteer came from a desire to give back.  

When I became involved with the Edmonton Brain Tumour Walk, I thought I’d be handing out water bottles and the next thing I know, I’m chairing the committee!  

Volunteering gave me a sense of purpose and a way to turn my experience into something positive. I quickly realized that in helping others, I was also helping myself. 

Can you share a remarkable or stand-out volunteering moment? 

There have been many meaningful moments, but a few stand out.  

One year, we had Loblaws/Superstore involved in the Brain Tumour Walk, with the company donating food and employees donating their time. I didn’t even realize they had also been collecting donations at the till, and at the end of the event, they presented a cheque for more than $13,000 to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada. I was shocked and very touched by their efforts.  

Another moment that stands out is meeting and speaking alongside Dr. Gregory Cairncross at last year’s Brain Tumour Walk. His research directly contributed to my good outcome. Also, meeting Dr. Faith Davis, who was instrumental in developing the Brain Tumour Registry of Canada (now the Brain Tumour Surveillance Research Collective) and later working with her on the Brain Tumour Walk, was something that meant a lot to me. 

I had felt I was done, that my involvement had come to an end, and when I learned Dr. Davis was going to be involved in the Brain Tumour Walk, it inspired me to keep going.  

What message would you share to help ignite volunteerism in others this year? 

You never know what you’re capable of until you take that first step. Volunteering doesn’t have to start with something big. Just show up and do what you can. It’s a great way to challenge yourself, build confidence and connect with others. I’ve seen people go from feeling unsure to stepping into leadership roles. When you give your time, you’re not only helping others—you’re gaining something meaningful in return.