Meet Janet Hempler.

Our 2025 Edmonton Brain Tumour Walk ambassador.

How have brain tumours impacted you?

In 2014, I was on vacation with a friend in Panama, when I had a tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizure. It was in Panama that I first heard the words, “You have a brain tumour.”

I was flown home to Canada by medical evacuation and transported directly to the University of Alberta Hospital. There, I met my neurosurgeon and a plan was developed.

Three months later I had a craniotomy, followed by chemotherapy and radiation.

The relative smoothness of my journey up to this point was thanks to some very strong advocates among my family and friends. I will never be able to thank them enough.

How did you become involved with Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada?

Very soon after my diagnosis, my sister (a RN) had already found BTFC and my handbook was on the way. I read it cover to cover and I shared it with my loved ones.

At that time, my son, Nathan, was nine, and my daughter, Ruby, was give. The children’s book, A friend in Hope, provided by BTFC was my saving grace. It eased an incredibly difficult conversation with my children.

I began attending BTFC’s adult brain tumour support group in Edmonton, accompanied by my husband, every month. Here I made, and unfortunately lost, many new friends.

Joe, Christina and Victoria, you will always be in my heart.

How and when have you participated in past Brain Tumour Walks? How will you be participating this year?

In 2015, my team, the Tumour-nators, raised $24,353.

This was my first Brain Tumour Walk and I was asked to share my brain tumour story with the participants. And through my tears, I did just that.

After that, I not only attended, but volunteered as the co-ordinator for the Edmonton Brain Tumour Walk multiple times.

2025 will be my fifth time working with the planning committee.

I was also incredibly fortunate to attend the Yellowknife Brain Tumour Walk in 2019 with my dear friend and fellow volunteer and brain tumour survivor, Matt. My dear friend passed away in 2020 from an astrocytoma.

Why did you decide to join the Brain Tumour Walk organizing committee?

Living in Canada, I have received wonderful care. I’ve felt fully supported by friends, family and BTFC. I’ve been gifted a good outcome from my brain tumour treatment and I’m keenly aware that not everyone is as lucky. Money raised for research and support services is SO important and it has been instrumental in my journey. 

I can help my brain tumour community, so I do.

Why would you encourage others to participate in the Brain Tumour Walk?

Nothing compares to being around people that “get it.” In this regard, the Brain Tumour Walk is like nothing else. Add to that, the support you will feel that day is palpable. The whole experience is incredibly uplifting.