Dr David Green Recognition Program

Each year Muscular Dystrophy Canada (MDC) recognizes and celebrates the contributions of individuals and groups who champion our cause with courage, determination, passion and caring.

2024 Volunteer Award Recipients

National

**“Bloom” by Kiana Randi Bergen**
A few words from the artist on her inspiration behind this piece: “There is something to be said about blooming where you are planted. By that, I mean making the most of what you’ve been given. We can’t control what happens in life, and it can be very hard to hold onto hope. But, life is so much fuller when you choose to see the good things. It may not change your circumstance, but it can definitely change your perspective!”
Learn more about the artist

Caring Corporate Partner Award
Pfizer Canada
Distinction in Chapter Leadership Award
London Chapter
Dr David Green Impact Award
Sault Ste. Marie Professional Firefighters Association
Dr George Karpati Award for Researcher of the Year
Dr Jodi Warman Chardon
Dr Katie Manders Courage to Inspire Award
Danielle McLeod
Excellence in Service Delivery Award
The Neuromuscular Disease Network for Canada
Fire Department of the Year Award
Ajax Fire and Emergency Services
Fire Fighter of the Year Award
Sean Donovan
Fred Shaddick Community Spirit Award
Journey for Janice
Mary Ann Wickham Award for Volunteer of the Year
Dan Hamel
Outstanding Healthcare Partner Award
Dr Erin O’Ferrall
Outstanding Philanthropist Award
The D & B Atkins Charitable Gift Fund
Rising Clinician/Researcher Award
Dr Cam-Tu Émilie Nguyen
Leadership in Advocacy Award
Alfred Breton-Paré

Provincial

**“Resilience” by Kiana Randi Bergen**
Kiana shares her vision, “this is an image of flowers growing through cracks in the concrete, breaking through even the toughest barriers with beauty. Flowers can seem delicate but they are also strong and can withstand everything life throws at them, which I think is relatable for anyone with a disability or different challenge in life. At times, we may feel weak or helpless, but we are often stronger than we realize. It takes great strength and courage to keep going!”
Learn more about the artist

Newfoundland Labrador Provincial Champion Award
Stephanie Penney
New Brunswick Provincial Champion Award
Ken Hodgson
Nova Scotia Provincial Champion Award
Kenny Arsenault
Quebec Provincial Champion Award
Janie Bédard
Ontario & Nunavut Provincial Champion Award
Michael Moore
British Columbia and Yukon Provincial Champion Award
Mike Henry
Prince Edward Island Change Makers Award
The Pollard Family
New Brunswick Change Makers Award
Nauwigewauk Fire Department
Nova Scotia Provincial Change Makers Award
The Phillips Family
Quebec Change Makers Award
Saint-Marc-des-Carrières and Saint-Casimir Fire Departements
Ontario & Nunavut Provincial Change Makers Award
Hamilton Walk & Roll Committee
Alberta and North West Territories Change Makers Award
Steinke and Razor Family
British Columbia and Yukon Change Makers Award
Jayden, Denise and Robert Hargreaves

I Want to Volunteer

What Our Volunteers Have to Say About MDC

NOT USED

Dawn Mitchell

I am a 52-year-old woman with Friedreich’s ataxia. In 1998, I became president of Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s Price Edward Island Chapter. I’ve held many positions within the organization, such as Fire Fighter liaison, social planner, and support group facilitator. I’ve also been honoured with the Volunteer of the Year award, at the provincial and national levels.

I call this piece “Deep Shadows”. It was taken in Ontario as we were driving by in a transport truck. I edited it using a water reflection. To me, it represents my hopes and dreams, which now live in the shadows. Driving a truck has always been a dream of mine. While being a passenger was as close as I’ll ever come to driving one of my own, it was the best experience of my life.

I’ve always enjoyed taking pictures, but I became more interested in this medium seven years ago. I take mostly photos of nature and architecture, with bridges and old barns being my favorite.

Every day, the challenges are becoming more difficult as the disease progresses. I now use a power chair and many physical supports. I also have many people who support and help me. I have always been stubborn and have plenty fight in me and that is one thing about me that will never change.

Kiana Randi Bergen

I was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy when I was in Grade 2. I love spending time with my family and friends. I also have a dog, a yorkie named Hazel.

I love being creative in many different forms. I like to write, draw, paint, sing, take photos, do crafts and design, whether it be on my phone creating images or playing design games on my iPad. I enjoy the creating process as much as the final result. I love nature, especially sunsets, water and flowers. It is all so incredible. Incorporating these into art is a wonderful thing.

Being an artist has brought me joy and helps me find beauty even in the imperfections. Art has taught me that difficult things can create beautiful results.