Volunteer Profile of the Month
Janice & Sarah Laberge, London, ON

After being diagnosed with a brain tumour and undergoing surgery at the age of ten, Sarah Laberge and her mother Janice have developed a personal connection to a cause they have committed themselves to for nearly five years. They began their journey with Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada in October of 2003 when they attended an Information Day conference. Not long afterwards, Janice joined the London Support Group to find encouragement for herself and Sarah.

In recent years, however, the mother and daughter who once needed support realized they wanted to provide it. Janice coordinated prizes and sponsorship for the London Rigatoni for Research fundraising event. Along with Sarah, she has also volunteered at charity golf tournaments, assisted with registration at Information Days, and participated in London’s Spring Sprint. After discovering the BrainWAVE program, both mother and daughter agreed that joining the committee was the natural next step and a fun activity that they could enjoy together. As committee members, Janice and Sarah meet regularly with other adults to plan events that encourage families affected by the disease to connect with one another. "It’s something we didn’t have when Sarah was diagnosed," Janice explains. "You need someone to guide you through and this program allows caregivers to relate and learn from each other."

Now 15-years-old and nearing the end of grade 10 in high school, Sarah admits she prefers to work with people who have more life experience. Between soccer, swimming, cross country running, track, student council and as an ‘Leader in Training’ at her church, Sarah still finds time to offer her organizational talents on the committee.

As a manager at Bell, Janice’s schedule is also quite busy, but she rarely passes up an opportunity to lend a hand. When reflecting on her daughter’s willingness to help, Janice believes Sarah volunteers because she likes new challenges and contributing to something that is "bigger than herself." These insightful words, though used to portray Sarah, can be used to describe the impact that both mother and daughter have on those in the brain tumour community. Their dedication to volunteering and compassionate nature has inspired us all.

CLICK HERE to read our previous Volunteer of the Month Profile: Dave D'Entremont.
CLICK HERE to learn more about how you can make a difference by volunteering.