Commemorative Medal for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II`s Golden

Commemorative Medal for Her Majesty Queen
Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee
One of the most significant activities of the Golden Jubilee celebrations is the awarding
of the Golden Jubilee Medal. This commemorative medal is awarded to Canadians who,
over the past 50 years, have helped create the Canada of today, including young
Canadians who are actively contributing to our future.
This program was an opportunity to recognize citizens for an outstanding and exemplary
achievement or service to the community or to Canada as a whole; or those who have
made a sustained contribution over and above what might reasonably be expected of paid
employment or voluntary action. In keeping with the Golden Jubilee spirit endorsed by
the Queen, awarding of the medal will be inclusive and wide-ranging.
Parkinson Society Canada was invited to participate in this initiative, and with the
partnership of our Regional Partners across Canada, fifty deserving individuals were
honoured for their contributions to the 100,000 Canadians living with Parkinson’s.
Parkinson Society Canada is pleased to present the following recipients.
From British Columbia:
Mr. Neil Menzies
A past president of the B.C. Parkinson’s Disease Association and Vice President of the
Parkinson Society Canada, Neil is noted for his enthusiasm, dedication, diplomacy and
sense of humour. He has done much to further the cause of Parkinson’s in Canada.
Dr. A. Jon Stoessl
Jon Stoessl, M.D. is a world-recognized expert in the area of Parkinson’s disease and
serves as Director of the Pacific Parkinson’s Research Centre at the University of British
Columbia. As a Board member of the Parkinson Society British Columbia, he acts as a
resource person, speaker and volunteer.
Mr. Les Whiting
The energetic and dedicated President of the Parkinson Society British Columbia, serves
as a board member of the Parkinson Society Canada and chair of the Marketing and
Communications Committee. Knowledgeable about e-commerce technologies,
communication networks and wireless technologies, he has used his expertise to improve
technology for the PSBC.
Mrs. May Wong
A dedicated, devoted and energetic worker for the Parkinson cause, May founded the
Chinese-speaking support group in 1995 in order to assist a growing segment of the B.C.
population coping with this devastating disorder. Fluent in both English and Chinese,
May is an ambassador of good will for the Society.
From Alberta:
Mrs. Judy Axelson
As Executive Director of The Parkinson's Society of Southern Alberta, Judy exemplifies
the finest attributes of staff leadership in a volunteer and has been instrumental in
developing innovative and highly effective programs for people living with Parkinson's.
Mrs. Lorrie Bett
Walking over 1880 km across Alberta and Saskatchewan in the Spring and early summer
of 2001, Lorrie Bett, a 55 year old Parkinsonian from Wetaskiwin, Alberta spread
awareness of Parkinson’s and provided hope and inspiration to all those she touched
with “Lorrie’s Sunshine Walk for Parkinson’s”.
Mrs. Thelma Flemming
The Camrose support group was established, and has been nurtured and led by Mrs.
Thelma Flemming. Thelma is the epitome of service and dedication. Recognizing the
need for community support when her husband was diagnosed with Parkinson’s she
began the group, 10 years later she is still at the helm! When attending a meeting, you
are personally welcomed by a caring and concerned individual, who instantly puts you at
ease. This lady plays a vital role in the lives of the Parkinson community of rural Alberta
and does so with such unassuming grace, that she is more than worthy of the recognition.
Mrs. Waltraud Jensen
Waltraud Jensen is the caregiver for her husband David, who has Parkinson’s. She
served on the Board of the Parkinson’s Society of Southern Alberta (PSSA) from 19962000. She was a founding member of the Lethbridge Chapter of PSSA in 1989, she served
on the Executive for many years and still gives countless hours to support and help
others. Since 1995, Waltraud has hand-made 10 gorgeous quilts to raise funds for
Parkinson’s.
Mrs. Holly Metcalfe
Holly Metcalfe (whose late husband, Lorne, had Parkinson’s, held the first Parkinson’s
meeting in Calgary on January 14th 1980. In 1981, she established The Parkinson’s
Society of Southern Alberta, recruiting the first Board. Holly was President,
Administrator and fundraiser in those early years, and was very active in the Society
until her retirement in 1992.
From Saskatchewan:
Mr. Frederick Keith Critchley
A highly successful businessman who channels his organizational skills, personal
contacts, and money for many good causes in Saskatchewan, e.g. President of the
Saskatchewan Roughriders and organizes annual golf tournaments for Parkinson’s
research. He is the most generous supporter of the Foundation.
Dr. David Bernard Russell
A most unselfish man who thrives on doing things for others, David is the founding
Director of two societies and current President of Saskatchewan Parkinson’s Disease
Foundation. He integrated SPDF with National Society and serves these organizations
with caring and enthusiasm.
From Manitoba:
Mr. Gordon Bragg
Gordon is the past Chair of the Manitoba Region, and has worked with great dedication
to further and enhance the growth of the organization in Manitoba. To sum up Mr.
Gordon Bragg, he is the epitome of the piles driven into the ground that supports the
foundation that is the Parkinson’s Society, keeping the building strong. This building
will not shake or fall because it is so well grounded, thanks to Mr. Bragg.
Mr. Wayne Buchanan
Wayne is the current President of the Manitoba Regional Board, and is a past Chair of
the Winnipeg Chapter. We have seen no greater dedication to the cause of Parkinson’s.
Wayne will do anything, go anywhere, and see anyone that will listen to his message
about Parkinson’s Disease. His ability to generate a positive response from people
towards the cause is exceptional. He is instrumental in not only bringing the Parkinson
community in Manitoba together, but developing the foundation that is the Manitoba
Region to date. This includes finding and bringing dedicated Board members and
members at large into a working and supporting structure. To make one statement that
would best describe Wayne Buchanan: “If you are not living on the edge, you are taking
up too much space”.
From Ontario:
Mr. Roger Buxton
Mr. Buxton’s attention to detail gives any project he engages in a professional quality.
He volunteers his time to raise awareness about Parkinson’s. This is exemplified in his
commitment to producing and promoting the police awareness video through province
wide presentations.
Ms. Jan Duff
Ms. Duff’s passionate volunteer spirit has led her to work tirelessly as both a national
and Ontario Board member for Parkinson Society Canada since 1996. People with
Parkinson’s are richer for her inspiring commitment to improving their quality of life.
Mrs. Pat Fleming
Mrs. Fleming’s positive attitude includes a belief that Parkinson’s lives with her, not she
with Parkinson’s. She challenges herself and others to be the best that they can be. She
instills hope and is an inspiration to all who know her.
Mrs. Judy Glustien
Judy Glustien has been a cornerstone of the organization for many years. She uses her
expertise as a consulting pharmacist with nursing homes to provide guiding advice to the
Board and the Program Committee, and to enhance her regular presentations for clients
groups. She is currently on a one-year leave of absence in Australia.
Mrs. Cathy Graham
Cathy was instrumental in the founding of the Toronto Chapter of The Parkinson
Foundation of Canada (now Parkinson Society Canada) in the early 1980's. Over many
years, Cathy has contributed enormously to the awareness of Parkinson's Disease - most
significantly in her long-time leadership with the Fresh Cut Tulip Campaign every Spring
in the Greater Toronto area. Cathy's fundraising skills have served the Society well over
two decades.
Mrs. Peggy Gray
Peggy Gray is a clinical nurse in the Parkinson’s Clinic, and also an active member of
Parkinson Society Ottawa’s Program Committee. She has supported Parkinson’s patients
for many years, has shared her expertise in regular presentations to clients, and writes a
newsletter for Parkinson’s nurses across the country.
Dr. David A. Grimes
Dr. David Grimes is one of two neurologists in Ottawa that focuses on Parkinson’s. He
has been an active supporter of Parkinson Society Ottawa, as Medical Advisor to the
Board, assisting in fundraising events, and giving presentations for clients and to other
physicians. In addition, Dr. Grimes carries out research into a cause and cure for
Parkinson’s.
Mr. Bill Harshaw
Following two major surgeries in the mid-1990's that he deems "miracles", and using his
renewed enthusiasm and energy, Bill helped garner badly needed medical care and drugs
for Parkinson patients living in rural areas or Toronto's inner city whom he felt were
under-served. His writing, his advocacy efforts, and his dogged determination on behalf
of all people with Parkinson's are legendary in Canada and beyond.
Mrs. Judy Hazlett
Ms. Hazlett uses her own experience with Parkinson’s as a way of educating others about
the condition. Her passion for raising awareness and understanding is most keenly
demonstrated in her commitment to the production and presentation of a police
awareness video.
Mrs. Sandie Jones
As a nurse, Sandie has used her skills and compassionate nature to directly improve the quality
of life of Canadians with Parkinson's. Over several years, Sandie has collaborated with nurses
across Canada to teach care providers, especially in long-term care facilities, about Parkinson's
Disease and how to address the unique needs of Parkinson's patients.
Mr. Norman Joseph Levac
Norm Levac’s work reflects his selfless, ‘go give’ spirit. As an individual, he provides
hope and inspiration for many. As a leader, he has developed important community
partnerships, increased volunteerism and inspired his peers, ultimately easing the burden
and finding a cure for Parkinson’s.
Mrs. Mary Martin
Mrs. Martin demonstrates a strong commitment to the Parkinson cause. She has served
for twelve years as Chair of a major fund raising event, “Pitch In for Parkinson’s” and is
resolute in her support for finding the cause and cure for Parkinson’s.
Mrs. Lynda McKenzie
As a young onset single mom with Parkinson's, Lynda used her diagnosis at an early age
to make a difference. She founded a Young Onset Support Group in the Greater Toronto
area, she has used her artistic and creative skills to produce and sell crafts (the proceeds
of which are returned to support the Parkinson cause), she has served as a national
Board member for The Parkinson Foundation of Canada (now Parkinson Society
Canada), and in recent years, she has traveled across the country, advocating on behalf
of Canadians with Parkinson's. She is a courageous figure who has been the subject of a
TV documentary and who has led volunteer initiatives with verve and determination.
Mr. Robert McNutt
Mr. McNutt selflessly supports people whose lives have been touched by Parkinson’s. His
positive attitude and empathy make everyone richer for knowing him. Mr. McNutt’s
gentle encouragement knows no bounds. He is a goodwill ambassador for the Parkinson
cause.
Mr. Klaas Moes
Klaas Moes has made an incredible difference to the Strathroy Parkinson’s Community.
He has developed strong partnerships with health care professionals and community
organizations and businesses, increased volunteerism in the community and generally
promoted a strong awareness and sensitivity of Parkinson’s.
Mr. Geoff Norquay
Geoff served on the national Board of Parkinson Society Canada for many years. He
was instrumental in starting the national advocacy program, and has served as a longtime advisor on all issues relating to public policy. The result today is a viable and
proactive national public policy agenda for all Canadians with Parkinson's.
Mr. Arthur Palmer
Arthur Palmer was a Board member for many years, drawing on his experience as a
caregiver for his wife, who had Parkinson’s. As Chair of the Editorial Committee, he
brought Parkinson Society Ottawa’s newsletter, The Parkinson Paper, to a professional
level. He continues as an active member, providing book reviews for each issue of the
newsletter.
Mr. John William Scott
John Scott has provided strong, consistent leadership and hope to people in the
Sarnia/Lambton Parkinson’s Community. Through his dedication, awareness has been
heightened and funds have been raised to ease the burden and find a cure for
Parkinson’s.
Mr. Gordon Sharwood
Mr. Sharwood has been an enthusiastic supporter of Parkinson Society Canada for many
years. By spearheading a major special event, the Sharwood/CVCA Golf Classic for the
past fourteen years, he has raised significant funds and heightened awareness in the
corporate sector.
Mr. Frank Shortreed
At a time when The Parkinson Foundation of Canada (now Parkinson Society Canada)
needed strong financial support, advice, and remedial action, Frank rose to the
challenge. His caring and compassion for volunteers and people living with Parkinson's
is legendary, including visits to patients in hospitals and rides to medical appointments
on his days off.
Mrs. Margaret Turner
As a founding member of the North York Support Group, as an Ontario Board member,
and as someone who willingly rises to all challenges, Marg has genuinely made a
difference in many lives. In recent months, Marg has enthusiastically responded to
numerous requests to participate in media interviews for Parkinson Society Canada. Her
commitment to volunteerism is exemplary.
Mrs. Isabel Ward
Isabel Ward is a highly motivated, well-respected individual who is dedicated to easing
the burden and finding a cure for Parkinson’s. Her work impacts the local, regional,
provincial and national levels of Parkinson Society Canada and is invaluable in building
a strong foundation for the Parkinson’s Movement.
From Quebec:
Docteur Sylvain Chouinard
Neurologue spécialisé dans les désordres du mouvement, membre du conseil
d’administration et collaborateur résolu de la Société Parkinson du Québec,
conférencier attitré au Congrès Parkinson et président du comité de rédaction du Guide
InfoParkinson, c’est un bâtisseur!
Mr. Roland Fortin
Roland served on the national Board of Directors of The Parkinson Foundation of
Canada (now Parkinson Society Canada) for many years. His compassion, caring, and
endless efforts to improve the quality of life of Canadians with Parkinson's over a long
period of time are known and respected by thousands.
Monsieur Marcel Groulx
Diagnostiqué parkinsonien en 1994, appuyé par son épouse, il forme un groupe
d'entraide. Membre fondateur de la Société Parkinson du Québec dans l'Outaouais,
président régional et vice-président provincial en 1999, puis président provincial en
2002. Ses judicieux conseils sont réconfortants.
After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1994, Marcel Groulx created a
support group with his wife’s help. Founding member of Société Parkinson du Québec –
région de l’Outaouais, he became regional president and provincial vice-president in
1999, and provincial president in 2002. He provides useful and comforting advice.
Madame Monique Paradis Groulx
Partenaire fondatrice de la Société Parkinson du Québec – Région de l'Outaouais,
militante à la SPQ au détriment de ses intérêts personnels, elle représente les milliers
d’aidants naturels et la motivation au combat journalier et au soutien inconditionnel
contre le parkinsonisme.
Founding partner of Société Parkinson du Québec – région de l'Outaouais, she actively
supports SPQ to the detriment of her own interests. She represents thousands of informal
caregivers, as well as the every day fight and unconditional support in favour of
Parkinson’s disease.
Madame Sylvie Lemay
Présidente fondatrice de l’Association Parkinson Mauricie, très impliquée pour la cause
du Parkinson dans sa région, elle a organisé plusieurs conférences. Bénévole, elle visite
des personnes confinées à domicile et vise à améliorer la qualité de vie des
parkinsoniens.
Founding president of Association Parkinson Mauricie, Sylvie Lemay is very involved
with Parkinson’s disease in her region and has organized several conferences. As a
volunteer, she visits housebound people and tries to improve the quality of life of people
with Parkinson’s.
Monsieur Claude Rivard
Président du conseil d’administration provincial jusqu’en 2002, membre du conseil
d’administration national et collaborateur à la restructuration de la Société Parkinson
Canada, il a participé grandement à l’essor de l’organisation durant ces dernières
années grâce à son leadership remarquable.
Claude Rivard presided the provincial board of directors until 2002, and as a member of
the national board of directors he collaborated to the restructuring of Parkinson Society
Canada. Thanks to his remarkable leadership, the organization grew tremendously in the
last few years.
Madame Micheline Savoie
Son conjoint étant atteint de la maladie de Parkinson, elle a contribué grandement à la
formation de la Société Parkinson du Québec – Région Bas-du-Fleuve; elle participe à
l’organisation des activités régionales. Son dynamisme la caractérise et est très apprécié.
Her husband being affected by Parkinson’s disease, she was instrumental in the creation
of Société Parkinson du Québec – région du bas du fleuve. Mrs. Savoie helps organize
regional activities; her dynamism is well known and highly appreciated.
Monsieur Louis Tremblay
Il dirige bénévolement les exercices hebdomadaires aux parkinsoniens, conférencier sur
le Parkinson et membre du comité exécutif de l’Outaouais pour la SPC, dans le cadre de
ses recherches universitaires, il explore la stimulation magnétique comme traitement
éventuel du Parkinson.
Louis Tremblay leads weekly exercises for people with Parkinson’s on a voluntary basis,
speaks publicly about Parkinson’s disease and sits on the PSC Ottawa region executive
committee. A university researcher, he studies magnetic stimulation as a potential
treatment for Parkinson’s.
Madame Harriet R. Wagner
A assisté son époux et un ami, atteints de parkinsonisme, à fonder en 1975 une section du
Québec, a participé aux rencontres du conseil d’administration et aux activités de
financement; veuve depuis 1995, a animé jusqu’en 2000, un groupe d’entraide.
Harriet Wagner helped her husband and a friend, both Parkinson’s sufferers, to found a
Quebec section in 1975. She participated in board meetings and funding activities.
Widowed in 1995, she lead a self-held group until 2000.
Monsieur Alcide-Joseph Eugène Yelle
Parkinsonien depuis 1992, membre de la Société Parkinson du Québec, vice-président du
conseil exécutif de l’Outaouais, délégué au conseil d’administration provincial,
représentant de la SPQ auprès de la Société Parkinson Canada, ses opinions sont
requises au national et au provincial.
Mr. Yelle has Parkinson’s disease since 1992. Member of Société Parkinson du Québec,
vice-president of the Outaouais executive committee, provincial board delegate and
representative of the SPQ at Parkinson Society Canada, his opinions are required at the
national and provincial levels.
From Nova Scotia:
Dr. George Turnbull
Dr. George Turnbull, Chair, PSC, Maritime Region, has inspired the region to set its bar
high and achieve its goals. Under George’s leadership, the Maritimes now has a one-ofkind clinic that specializes in an exercised-based therapy for people living with
Parkinson’s.
From New Brunswick:
Mr. Merton Geddes
Merton Geddes is a very modest volunteer, who has made a significant difference in the
lives of Maritimers' living with Parkinson’s. Merton has united and strengthened the
Maritime Region by bringing the voice of New Brunswickers living with Parkinson’s to
the forefront.
From Prince Edward Island:
Dr. Sheldon Reuben Cameron
Dr. Cameron is a well-loved and respected retired doctor and founding president of the
Summerside Support Group. He has rallied the PEI community in the name of
Parkinson’s, giving his time unconditionally. Parkinson’s is a household word on the
island because of Dr. Sheldon Cameron.
From Newfoundland & Labrador:
Ms. Denise Murphy
Her professional and voluntary involvement with People With Parkinson’s (PWP) is
dynamic. She provides hope, comfort, compassion and inspiration to PWP’s throughout
the entire province. She is the heart of the Movement Disorder Clinic and a dedicated
PD volunteer.
Mrs. Frances M. Nichols
She has been a PD volunteer for over 20 years. She organized and maintained the
Central NF Chapter, was the first NFLD representative on the national PD board, and
was on the provincial board. The YMCA in her hometown recently renamed its building
in her honour recognizing her volunteer efforts.