"You are not alone." It’s a phrase that can transform lives. Allow me to introduce myself: my name is Marlène Dubé. At 65, I am a woman full of joy, living single and childfree.

Onix Collette was only in third grade when her mom, Brandi Massina, was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Brandi was young herself, having welcomed Onix while she was still in high school.

Meegan Campbell was a new, single mom, settling into life with her six-month-old son, Dallas. She’d taken maternity leave from her work as a high school teacher, specializing in co-operative education.

For Melissa and Evan Funk, Steinbach, Man. is home. It’s where they grew up, where they raise their own family—daughters Adalyn, five years old, and Raya, four years old—and where they run a successful serveware company.