2020 Postcard from Palm Springs
Highlights from the 2020 CHDI HD Therapeutics Conference are now here! This year’s Postcard covers HTT-lowering therapeutics, including an
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Kelly Andrews – Chapter Treasurer – ON
When did you first become involved in volunteering with the Huntington Society of Canada? Why did you decide to do so?
My first activity volunteering with the Huntington Society of Canada (HSC) was an attempt to secure volunteer businesses in Peterborough, ON to “Light it Up for HD” in March of 2021. Unfortunately, my first attempt was a failure! Considering that we were in Covid times, I was unable to visit local businesses in person, so we will blame it on that, HA! I have always been an active volunteer in the communities where I have lived. After returning to my hometown, I was looking for volunteer opportunities close to my heart. The Huntington Society was a natural choice since the disease runs in my husband’s family. Unfortunately, there have been very few members of his family that have not been plagued by the gene, including my husband.
What does it mean to you to be a volunteer?
Selfishly, my first volunteer endeavours were more for my own benefit. Volunteering looks great on a resume! However, after several different volunteer roles over the past decade or so, the act has become a very important part of my life. I feel unsettled if I’m not giving back to my community in some way. I look forward to involving our daughter in volunteer activities and passing on the love for lending a helping hand as she grows.
Can you describe the specific events or campaigns you have helped?
I have attempted, and will try, try, try again, to get my community involved in Light it Up for HD. So far, I have played an active role in the planning and preparation of our Annual Golf Tournament and taken on the Treasurer role for the Peterborough Chapter. As a family, we have participated in one Walk for HD, and an Amaryllis campaign. As a new volunteer who started during COVID, I have not had much opportunity to participate but I look forward to doing more as the years progress.
What have been some of the benefits of volunteering?
The number one benefit of volunteering for HSC is knowing that my work is directly assisting my family (maybe I’m being selfish again!). Another benefit is meeting the wonderful people who dedicate their time and energy to the cause. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the folks in the Peterborough Chapter and look forward to working with them in the years to come.
Have there been any memorable/funny highlights from your time volunteering?
I am certain the Annual Golf Tournament is always a great time and although I’ve only attended one so far, I can imagine this will be the source of most of the funny highlights! My husband and I are not regular golfers and last fall we spent the first 30 minutes driving around the course looking for our hole to start the game. He shouldn’t have let me drive, I guess!
Do you have a message for the Huntington disease community, or to someone considering volunteering for the cause?
In all my experience volunteering, I don’t think I’ve ever encountered a more tight-knit community than that of the Huntington Society. Everyone I have met has been so welcoming and amazing. I feel incredibly lucky for the opportunity to surround myself with such strong, dedicated, and motivational folks. There are so many ways to volunteer – as little or as much as one feels comfortable, so don’t be shy! I can guarantee that even if you start out volunteering as a resume booster, or for your 40 hours in order to graduate high school, you’ll be hooked.
