Before my vestibular conditions changed my life, I was an outgoing, energetic person who loved connecting with others and volunteering in my community. When dizziness, brain fog, tinnitus, and overwhelming fatigue became part of my daily life, everything I knew about myself seemed to change. The road to receiving a diagnosis was long and frustrating, and I often felt confused, isolated, and unsure how to move forward.
Finding VeDA was a turning point in my journey. Through the support groups, educational resources, and virtual conference, I found something I had been missing — people who truly understood. Listening to others share their stories, challenges, and successes gave me hope and practical strategies for adapting to my new normal. For the first time, I realized that while my life would be different, it could still be meaningful and fulfilling.
That experience inspired me to give back. I want to be the person for someone else that others were for me. By sharing my vestibular journey, along with the lessons, coping strategies, and encouragement I’ve gained along the way, I hope to help others feel less alone and more confident as they navigate life with a chronic vestibular disorder.
Volunteering has always been an important part of who I am. Although my vestibular conditions meant I could no longer volunteer in the ways I once did, leading a VeDA support group gave me a new purpose and a meaningful way to continue serving others.
As the leader of Vestibular Voices Canada, I am especially passionate about supporting Canadians living with vestibular disorders. Access to family physicians and vestibular specialists can be challenging, leaving many people feeling isolated and without answers.
If my journey can help even one person feel less frightened, less isolated, or more hopeful about the future, then every challenge I’ve faced has become an opportunity to make a difference. That is why I volunteer, and why I am proud to be part of the VeDA community.