As part of National Volunteer Week (April 19–25, 2026), we are proud to highlight a few of the incredible volunteers who help drive our mission forward. This year’s theme, Ignite Volunteerism, is a year-long effort to elevate civic participation, strengthen volunteer infrastructure and celebrate the stories that inspire action across Canada. 

 Throughout the week, we will celebrate the many ways people across Canada are igniting volunteerism in their communities and deepening our collective impact. We are pleased to begin by highlighting one of our remarkable volunteers, Brenda Wassick. 

 How did you become connected to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada?  

It was shortly after my husband was diagnosed with brain cancer in January 2024. 

What inspired you to start volunteering with the organization and what keeps you motivated to stay involved?  

 Although I was alongside my husband and we were fighting together to prolong his life, we were in two very different fights. We both felt alone in different ways and we both said how important it was to each of us to try our best to give back within the brain tumour community to help those in any possible way.  

 When he passed away in July of 2025, I knew I needed to start to volunteer in some way!  

 I enjoy talking and getting to know my peers and the other individuals who have been forced to embrace this incredibly difficult journey with a loved one. 

 I am motivated so those who are in their journey, at any stage, do not have to feel alone. It motivates me to ensure that the people I meet feel supported, heard and have a safe place to go to celebrate their wins and talk about the tough times while they navigate the unpredictability living alongside someone impacted by a brain tumour.  

 What has been one of the most meaningful or memorable moments from your volunteer experience? 

 During this time in someone’s life they are going through something unimaginable and having the honour to be a person they trust to talk to in whatever aspect has been an incredible opportunity.   

 To hear someone tell me “thank you” or “that helped,” or to get the opportunity to celebrate a clean scan or milestone during recovery or treatment, or to have someone feel comfortable enough to come to me with a frustration or fear and allow me to be a part of their life at such a fragile time, leaves me feeling blessed. I have had a few people reach out to me and that alone is rewarding. 

 April is the National Month of Hope, and National Volunteer Week’s theme this year is Ignite Volunteerism. How do you feel volunteers bring hope and connection to the brain tumour community? 

 Helping to provide hope in getting through another month, week, day or minute with those who walk the same journey. We are all connected.  

What message would you share with others about the difference volunteers can make in the brain tumour community? 

You never know how much you can positively help or impact someone’s life with words or actions until you try! 

Discover more volunteer stories for National Volunteer Week by reading the spotlights featuring Anaïs and David.