Amy Dodge, of Moncton, N.B., is the recipient of our Volunteer of Distinction Trailblazer Award.

The recipient of this award exemplifies excellence in their role as a trailblazer, having made significant contributions to the brain tumour community. Through their dedication, meaningful actions and groundbreaking contributions, the recipient of this award is paving the way for a brighter future for those affected by brain tumours. 

What inspired you to start volunteering? 

I was inspired to start volunteering with Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada by my father, Dr. David Dodge. My father was diagnosed with glioblastoma in June 2023, and it is for him that we created Team Dodge. Throughout his life, my father dedicated himself to serving others, both as a physician and through his participation in bike races to raise funds for cancer research. His kindness, generosity and commitment to helping others continue to inspire me every day. 

Volunteers often “wear many hats.” What hats have you worn as a volunteer and can you share how and when you got involved? 

I became involved with Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada as a team captain when my family and I started Team Dodge in 2024 for a community Brain Tumour Walk. Together, we organized Moncton’s first-ever community Brain Tumour Walk and were thrilled by the incredible turnout and support we received. 

Outside of my involvement with BTFC, I am a medical student, and wearing this hat, I strive to raise awareness and advocate for those affected by brain tumours in any way I can. This is a cause that will remain a lifelong commitment for me. 

What is your fondest memory of volunteering? 

My fondest memory is hosting our first-ever community Brain Tumour Walk in Moncton, N.B., in June 2024. This day stands out not only because of the incredible support we received from our community, but because I was able to share it with my father. My father was unable to attend our 2025 Walk and has since passed, so that first walk we shared together will always hold a special place in my heart.  

With Brain Cancer Awareness Day and Hats for Hope in mind, what message of hope would you share with others in the brain tumour community? 

To everyone in the brain tumour community: patients, families, caregivers and friends, please know that you are not alone. Hope can be found in every act of compassion, in every conversation and in every step we take together toward awareness and research. 

Through my father’s journey, I’ve learned that even in the face of unimaginable challenges, there is strength in community and meaning in connection. I’ve learned not to save joy for later. Each hat worn and every story shared reminds us that while brain tumours can take so much, they can never take away love, courage or hope.