Janet Hempler is another survivor turned volunteer that we have the honour of working with in our Walk program. Hear her thoughts on what is means to her to be a volunteer.  

“I was diagnosed with a tumour in July 2014. Three months later I underwent surgery, chemo and radiation. It was at this time that I was first introduced to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada as I started to attend the adult support group. 

The support group facilitator at the time was involved in the Edmonton Brain Tumour Walk planning committee. She asked me to make the survivor speech at the 2015 walk. I was happy to be involved. Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada had already done so much for me in my journey and it felt good to give back.   

Not long after, the committee approached me about getting more involved and sent me to my first Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada training weekend in Toronto. After the weekend in Toronto, I was hooked! All the people I met, staff and other volunteers, quickly became like family.  I came away from the weekend energized and with a committee role. I took on the challenge of coordinating the Edmonton event. 

My brain tumour journey had left me feeling untethered.  Volunteering has been healing for me. And it’s given me a purpose. I would tell anyone who is thinking of volunteering to GO FOR IT. Start small, if it makes you feel more comfortable. Go big if you’re motivated. We all have special talents that we can give. 

I’ve received much more from volunteering than I can ever express. My sincere thanks.”