Thank you for your interest in our Everyday Heroes contest. Contest entries will be shared below and through other channels as they are received.
Our weekly prize winners will be announced weekly on Tuesdays, starting on July 18. The National Hero will be chosen by August 11, and will lead their local walk this September.
If you haven't done so already, join our everyday heroes and commit to a future without Parkinson's. Register to walk this September.
Brenda Dobbie
Nominated by Sammie Smith
She is such a strong amazing person she would do anything for anyone she loves her great grandaughter so much, she found out she had Parkinson's a year ago and has not let that stop her shes here to find a cure!
Remi Grenier
Nominated by Danna Campbell
My husband Remi was diagnosed with PD 12 years ago when he was just 53 years old. He has never let the disease bring him down in any way. He maintains the most positive attitude every day and is an inspiration to our family and friends.
Annna Socci
Nominated by Tasha Schmidt
My grandma was diagnosed at 42. She faced adversity from a young age but never let it define her. After a 40 year battle she recently passed away. She was the definition of a superhero, possessing strength, courage, and resiliency; a true fighter.
Joan Gilroy
Nominated by Twila Langille
Joan has been raising funds for years.She is one of the top money raisers for years.This might be her last walk but we hope not.
Mike MacMullin
Nominated by Celinda Balser
Though he has had ups and downs he is still quite involved in his community. He is the president of his Retired Police Association; he is involved with Crime Stoppers and with Special Olympic Torch Run in NS. He has a very positive attitude towards life.
Natasha McCarthy
Nominated by Gail Birt
She is my best friend. She is always positive. She never gives up and when I say "I can't" do something. she says "if the Parkie can do it, than so can you". She is always helping others in her community and her church.
Jacqueline Landry
Nominated by Celinda Balser
She never gives up. She supports others & encourages us all to keep fighting. A true inspiration to us all.
Celinda Balser, Rita Fitzgerald, Etta Belliveau
Nominated by Jackie Landry
Since being diagnosed They have raised money , their first Superwalk last year helped me by facilitating the support group with me and helping me organize our 1st Superwalk in Yarmouth Nova Scotia and may become an ambassador like me.
Pat Evans
Nominated by Daniel Linton
Pat was an instrumental in initiating the Lanark North Leeds Superwalk in 2017. She spearheaded the local support group, exercise groups, and educational events in the area. When she gets an idea in her head, there is no stopping that lady....
Diane Ewer
Nominated by Thomas Ewer
She has courageously battled Parkinsons for 15 years. Continues to work and persevere in everything she does.
Janice Horn
Nominated by Anonymous
Janice has advocated as an ambassador has had Art Therapy student at 1 of her 3 Art groups, speaks to support groups,Canadian government staff for Health Partners and has lead an art activity on a Conference committee. making her an inspiration to the community.
Tammy Taylor
Nominated by Chris MacCormack
Even through her struggles the last 16 years she is always helping out her children's' friends and mentoring them with positivity and love.
Claude Matte
Nominated by Betty Matte
He is my "earth angel" from my first prognosis of having Parkinson he has been taking the lead and makes sure I have everything I need, waiting on my every need.
Jackie Landry
Nominated by Rita Fitzgerald
She gives 110% of her energy to help support people with Parkinson as an ambassador, local support facilitator and dance instructor.
John Martin
Nominated by Mary Martin
From the beginning John, my primary care giver and husband always said WE have Parkinson’s and WE will fight this together. He was there for me when I had to abandon the things I enjoyed doing.I am so blessed to have him in my life. I would never have enjoyed our life without his love and unwavering support for so many years
Gary Provenzano
Nominated by Lena Walsh
He is my dad and he has always been my hero. He does not let parkinson's define him.
My aunt Anne
Nominated by Ashley DiMarco
She always puts others first; volunteering to look after her grand kids, cooks for a party of 20+ people or supports someone who needs a shoulder. Always keeping an upbeat demeanor and joking about the things she can't change - She is truly a ray of light.
Pat Evans
Nominated by Gayle Truman
I was introduced to Pat through Catherine Ball our mutual physiotherapist and through Pat's attitude and example I came to realize that there is life after Parkinson's. Pat has worked tirelessly to bring a SuperWalk to Lanark/North Leeds.
Clary Moores (my dad)
Nominated by Michelle Johnson
Parkinson's has been trying to destroy my dad's body for 21 years but he never stops fighting. He walks a little each day, dances when he can and is always singing. Music keeps his memory sharp. He's my hero and is the strongest man I know.
Vincent McGillicky
Nominated by Sandra McGillicky
He not only dealing with Parkinson's disease, he has Stage 3 Cancer as well. He's my HERO, watching him deal with these 2 terrible diseases and nothing gets him down. This year alone he has ran three 5K marathons.
My Dad- Wayne Atanas
Nominated by Jacqueline Seeley
My dad is my everyday hero. He has been battling Parkinsons Disease for a few years now with determination and courage. This disease has kicked him down many times, but he always sets an amazing example for his family and friends.
Charles Muli
Nominated by Ethel Muli
Charlie has had Parkinson's for 13 years. Some days are a real struggle for him, especially taking the medications. We've been married for 49 1/2 years and before Parkisons's he didn't even take an aspirin!! He courageously keeps on fighting back.
Sheri Ostrynski
Nominated by Vienna Ostrynski
She is my sister and was diagnosed 14 years ago at age 47. Sheri has never let it get her down,has become an accomplished painter and bravely underwent DBS surgery this year.She pushes through the pain and keeps going and going with a smile.She is my hero
Penny Cohen
Nominated by Patricia Melnyk
Despite living with Parkinsons for over 10 years now, Penny is devoted to her family and grandchildren and always thinks of others. She never complains, and is involved in the community making life better for herself and others.
Tammy Taylor
Nominated by Tina Webster
She was diagnosed 16 years ago with Young onset Parkinson's.Through the progression she constantly helps others and brings happiness to everyone she meets. Tammy is an amazing mother of 2 and the most amazing sister.
Bradley Freysteinson
Nominated by Lils Freysteinson
He has had of Parkinsons for 10 years and has had DBs. He walks in all the walks that take place every year, boxes, and encourages others to continue fighting.
Janice Horn
Nominated by Anonymous
She started Shake It Up at the Art Group in Winnipeg. and she has devotes put a lot of her time and energy to provide art supplies and support to all that come out. She has Parkinson's and has had DBS. she has also traveled to other parts of Canada to share her story
Anna Malawsy
Nominated by Denise Boissoneault
Her positive attitude while living with Parkinson's,her care of her adult children in times of need, not thinking of herself and her participation in golf, dance, racquet sports, and helps her to soldier on, I believe. A very worthy Ambassador N' Hero.
Dave Fennell
Nominated by Julie Wiegard
Living with Parkinson's since 2011. He's a retired Toronto police senior constable and works tirelessly to strive for a better life.
Dave Fennell
Nominated by Julie Wiegard
Living with Parkinson's since 2011. He's a retired Toronto police senior constable and works tirelessly to strive for a better life.
Jean Caron
Nominated by Fyonna Vanderwerf
He is a 90 year old Gentleman with Vascular Dementia with elements of Parkinson's. He does not stop. He is a treasured client.
Albert Svingen
Nominated by Viviane Smith
He is my husband and has lived with Parkinson's for over 20 years. He seldom complains and just keeps going.
Nora Lea Arcand
Nominated by Ingrid Cummings
Although severely hampered by Parkinsons, she continues to be active in helping others affected by the disease. She does a great deal to help raise support for research and awareness.
Jim Kelly
Nominated by Sandra Kelly
My brother Jim Kelly is a leader and although he struggles with Parkinson for the past 4 years he focuses on what he can do and how to adapt with his new challenge. He has Parkinson's, Parkinson's doesn't have him.
Doug Billingsley
Nominated by Dan Billingsley
My Grandpa is one of the most caring people that I have ever met. He always puts the needs of others before his own. My family is very lucky to have him.
My Mom!
Nominated by Emily Mitton
No matter how hard some days are, she is the first one to uplift others and always keeps going! She is an inspiration to me and I'm so proud of her!
Margot Bartlett
Nominated by John Parkhurst
She gets up every day after 27 years with Parkinson's and putting up with me, with a smile on her face, and fights the war with Parkinson.
Marie Perry
Nominated by Kathryn Knowlton
My mother passed away April 1, 2012 of complications due to Parkinson's but up until then she struggled with Parkinson for 10 years. I walk along with family in her memory.
Nathan Langille
Nominated by Kathy Rupnow
Nathan was diagnosed about 3 years ago at age 39. He initiated a community walk to help raise awareness, support research, and help others manage their daily lives by fundraising for Parkinson's. He has walked over 1000 kms and raised over $3700!
Lino Valeriati-Breda
Nominated by Andrea Pasianotto
My grandmother passed in '08 from Parkinson's. My grandfather took care of her for the 30 years she was battling with this disease. He cooked, he cleaned, and even though it was a tough journey he always made her smile and laugh. My hero.
Suzy Waitzman
Nominated by Michelle Waitzman
Suzy has volunteered for over 20 years, helping people with Parkinson's and other conditions to move more by exercising in a therapeutic pool. Diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2012, she continues to volunteer and stay active mentally and physically.
My Grandpa John Botsford
Nominated by Sara Baker
He showed me what it means to be happy, to live life to the fullest and to love. Which to me are the most important qualities a person can carry with them as they grow old and live their life.
Tim Hague Sr.
Nominated by Maddison Szumlak
He does so much to try and raise awareness for others like him with Parkinson's and he has been teaming up with others to get people involved with boxing and yoga etc. for people with Parkinson's. We will U-turn Parkinson's!
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Deana Joka
This guy does NOT let Parkinson's win and get in the way of stopping him from whatever he wants to do. He is strong, brave, and a true superhero!
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Kelsey Huizing
His joy is unshakeable. He inspires me to be my best for the people around me and to seize every opportunity.
Ardyce Glessing
Nominated by Sandta Bailas
Ardyce started her lifelong battle with Parkinson's 9 years ago. Her spouse and family have always come first. She also invests her time in her 97 year old mother . Ardyce is also raising her 4 year old grandson. She raises money yearly for Parkinsons.
Pat Evans
Nominated by Robert Fisher
Diagnosed over 10 yrs ago Pat has met the PD challenge head-on. She is a tireless advocate & started the 1st ever SuperWalk in Perth, Ontario.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Jill Hamming
Albert is a Godly man. His Parkinson's has not changed that. He is a gentle and kind encourager with a great sense of humour too. Albert helps out every day, moving chairs, cooking, collecting for the food bank, listening, whatever you need he is there.
Colette (Bazinet) Bradley
Nominated by Carmen Bazinet
Colette jouit de la vie même en étant prisionnière du Parkinson. Elle sourit et profite de chaque jour parce qu'elle a une famille et des amis qui l'entourent.xox
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Arjen Osinga
Because Albert is a very caring, patient, loving person.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Jackie Van Dyk
He is an enormous encouragement to me as a friend and a spiritual leader. He always is the first to lend a hand and give a smile not matter his personal obstacles.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Nancy Goss
Albert Huizing is a person who exudes caring and compassion to everyone he is in contact with. In spite of his illness he has been a steady breath beneath the wings of children he has coached, youth groups he has led, as well as friends and colleagues.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Anna Osinga
His tremendous support for youth and concern for their spirtual well being. Albert lives close to the Lord and is a great example to many.
Bozena
Nominated by Maureen Inwood
Tho my hero is in heaven now, my Aunt fought Parkinson's until the bitter end. She showed courage, kept her sense of humour and loved her family. Thank you for doing everything so no one needs to fight walk, breathe...and to live. I miss my hero everyday
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Sue Huizing
He has not let his Parkinson's stop him from loving people and rob him of his joy. He stilll lives life to the fullest - by putting others first - even on the hard days.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Elaine Dosenberger
My sister and best friend who raises awareness about Parkinson's, lives life to the fullest and is an inspiration to me and others . Always has a smile and finds the best in everyday. My hero!
Guy Steed
Nominated by Diana Steed
Guy was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 1991. For many years he carried on playing tennis and golf. He eventually gave up tennis but still tries golf and goes out to garden. He also walks, even in winter, with friends. His spirit remains strong.
Norm Lapierre
Nominated by Margaret Lapierre
Norm in recent years has been diagnosed with Parkinson. He has embraced the recommendation of his neurologist - exercise, exercise, exercise and he has committed himself to exercising daily and eating healthily. He is doing remarkably well!
Bob Nauss
Nominated by Linda Nauss
When he was healthy he dedicated his life to the youth in the community receiving a lifetime achievement award for his work in Halifax, NS. Parkinson's has not killed his spirit. He is a very positive man to this day.
Blake Bell
Nominated by Allen & Darlene Watson
My spouse attended Rock Steady Boxing and where we first met Blake. Blake is a wonderful individual who brought fun, determination, and strength in believing that Parkinson's can be dealt with in the most positive way.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Bayley Huizing
His love is never ending.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Alex MacKinnon
My girlfriend is cool because of him.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Alex MacKinnon
My girlfriend is cool because of him.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Cherry Sun
He has such a positive attitude towards life despite [his illness].
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Linda Cyr
He is an example of faith through difficult times. He holds to what he believes.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Tara Bambauer
Because Albert is a super kind, fun guy who puts himself out there full tilt. He always helped as a leader at VBS and it was hard to tell who was having a better time-him or the kids! A big loving light!
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Jenn Soria
He is an amazing man who doesn't let anything stop him from living life to the fullest. He is an amazing husband and father! A great youth pastor, and a man I am privileged to know and call my brother in Christ!
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Orvia Perez
He never gives up no matter what life throws at him.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Stephanie Goss
I have known Albert Huizing for over ten years and he is a humble man with a big heart. He willingly gives his time to others without expecting recognition. I knew him as a coach for our children and a spiritual advisor. He is a strong model of a man.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Sydney Huizing
My dad is the strongest man I know. Through all of the things thrown his way, Parkinson's being one of many, he has responded in the most patient, humble, and wise ways possible. He is the most perseverant man I know and the most deserving of this honor.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Julie Linzel
This amazing man stays so positive in the face of his challenges, keeps his faith strong despite his physical difficulty and still helps others but never complains about his struggles. He is awesome and is an inspiration!
Albert Huizing IV
Nominated by Albert Huizing V
Albert got us through a lot of hard times. Our family moved away from our home state, and went bankrupt during the recession. The family didn't see him much, but he pressed onto the goal of growing his family and doing God's will. I love you Dad
Pat Evans
Nominated by Gayle Truman
I was introduced to Pat shortly after I was diagnosed with PD. I was devastated and needed to meet someone like Pat who has now been living with Parkinson's for 11 years and is still well enough to organized the first Lanark/North Leeds SuperWalk
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Sue Martin
He is an amazing father, he continues to do day to day things even though many days he struggles with things that we take for granted. Albert, you are a rock star to so many of us. You inspire us, you never feel sorry for yourself I am so proud of you.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Melanie Ciriaco
He is an inspiration to our family, his immediate family, and his church community. A heart of gold but completely humble and with a faith that is worth being completely jealous of. His sense of humor has lead us to many Christmas family reunion laughs.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Russell Huizing
I am grateful for the model of peace, faith, and joy my brother Albert has been to me and many others as he has learned what life with Parkinson's would mean for he and his family.
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Xandra can der Geer
This man is so special. The way he goes through life with this is just amazing. NEVER complaining and ALWAYS seeking God. He is MY hero!
Albert Huizing
Nominated by Feije DeBoer
Albert doesn't let Parkinsons win - whether it's playing badminton or learning boxing, he's always up for activity. He's the last to complain and the first to volunteer to help someone else!