Brad Haffie can empathize with the people in his care.

As a personal support worker (PSW) in a long-term care home in Amherstview, Brad received critical medical care when he was diagnosed with Leukemia at four years old. By the time he turned five, that medical care had put his disease into remission.

More than 38 years later, Brad reflects on that pivotal moment in his life which steered him towards a career in health care.

“I feel things happen for a reason,” he says kindly about the lifesaving treatment he received when he was younger. “It’s probably how I came to work in health care.”

Asked about his work as a PSW at Helen Henderson Care Centre in Amhersview, Brad says, “I enjoy my work every day. I get to spend time with the residents and make them smile and feel loved. I like my coworkers. I like making people smile. When I make someone smile, I feel like I’ve done my job.”

“Brad was destined to work with seniors. He has a great rapport with them,” says Joanne Haffie, Brad’s mother. “He’s my walking miracle.”

Speaking from her home, Joanne is proud of her son and her family’s connection to the upcoming Terry Fox Walk & Run on Sept. 20, the same day as Brad’s 42^nd birthday.

“We have organized more than 35 runs in Napanee and Gananoque,” says the 66-year-old about her family’s volunteer work with the Terry Fox Foundation which is currently celebrating the 40th anniversary of Terry's Marathon of Hope.

According to Joanne, Brad was chosen as the Terry Fox Team Member for Ontario when he was eight; a rare honour that allows survivors to act as ambassadors for cancer awareness and education.

“We are all very, very proud of him and what he has become,” says Joanne. “Brad is well-suited to what he does; it’s wonderful. Even the Terry Fox family thinks the world of him.”

Helen Henderson Care Centre is a proud supporter of the annual walk and run held every September.

“Our residents, staff, volunteers and families are proud to raise money and awareness in the fight against cancer,” says Activity Director Donna Joudoin.

“Our home is working hard to educate & support staff and residents who are living with this disease or know someone fighting for their life. We are eager to find a cure for this, and other, devastating diseases that take-away our loved ones. The Terry Fox Walk & Run is a great way for us to show our support and let people know they are not alone. For many years, our home has worked hard to raising awareness and funds in the fight against cancer. We hope the community will join us again this year because every little bit helps.”

Brad admits the Terry Fox Walk & Run is important to him and he will be participating in this year’s event which is virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’m one of the lucky ones,” he says nostalgically about surviving cancer. “I’m glad they found a treatment for me when they did. I’m glad to be alive.”

Helen Henderson Care Centre is grateful for the health and happiness of cancer survivors such as Brad Haffie. Please join our home in this year’s virtual Terry Fox Walk and Run on Sept. 20 by registering at www.terryfox.org To learn more about living or working in our home, please call 6130384-4585.