In communities across Canada we know that there are people living with or affected by Parkinson’s whose everyday heroism is an example to others. Since 2016, we’ve hosted our Everyday Heroes, Extraordinary Hope contest in acknowledgment of this.
Last year’s winner was Josephine Jollymore of New Glasgow, Nova Scotia. Selflessly working to improve the lives of people going through the pain and struggle of Parkinson’s disease, Josephine has always been on call 24/7. A big-hearted volunteer, she has led efforts with the Pictou/New Glasgow Chapter of Parkinson Canada since 2003.
Her friend Margaret Milne, one of several who nominated Josephine, shares this letter:
“I’d like to tell you a bit about my friend, my inspiration, Josephine Jollymore. Despite losing her husband Gordon to Parkinson’s in 2005, Josephine has remained extremely active in the community. Since 2003, she’d been leading our local chapter and support group.
Selflessly working to improve the lives of people going through the pain and struggle of Parkinson’s disease, Josephine has always been on call 24/7. She has led efforts with the Pictou/New Glasgow Chapter of Parkinson Canada since 2003, despite losing her husband Gordon to Parkinson’s in 2005.
Josephine’s reputation for hard work and dedication is well known in the community and within the group. Members, past and present, know that her advice, guidance and concern are always just a telephone call away. Moreover, each year she personally raises a significant proportion of funds at the annual Pictou/New Glasgow SuperWalk event.
In short, Josephine is the heart of our support group. She has been an inspiration to me, to all of us in the group, and inspires be there for one another, just as she has always done.
This year, I hope you’ll consider doing something for someone, or maybe even for yourself, and choose to support or participate in SuperWalk this September.”
While community walk details are unsure at this time, what is clear is that our community continues to stand together to show support and to combat isolation. Group leaders like Josephine, the volunteers, and Parkinson Canada staff form a part of a connected network to show one another that you are not alone at this time.
Join Josephine as part of a resounding voice of community this September. Learn more at www.superwalk.ca.