Last year I asked this question, perhaps a little prematurely.
At that time the province was cautiously reopening parks and patios, businesses big and small, and all sorts of services. Well, we know how that story ended.
This spring, as vaccinations roll out, we can be forgiven for asking again if we’re there yet. We now know that we’re not, but there is a glimmer of hope. And there continue to be local heroes who aren’t letting COVID-19 stand in their way.
Despite continuing to live under these extraordinary circumstances, there are those who refuse to give in to doom and gloom. Susan Scandiffio interviewed one such Leasider, who is overcoming personal, medical odds to achieve her dreams. Karen Jacoby is a 34-year-old who was diagnosed with Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis right before the pandemic hit, in January, 2020.
As Susan writes: “This is a woman who doesn’t let anyone, or anything, shake her determination. Even in the face of a debilitating disease which has turned her life upside down, Jacoby has chosen to embrace her diagnosis, not let it define her, and to use each day as an opportunity to raise awareness of the disease.”
Karen has become a tireless, topnotch fundraiser for MS, who was instrumental in having the federal government recognize World MS Day – May 30 – on their promotional health days calendar.
She shows no signs of easing up on her personal goals. As she did last year, this year on May 15th and 16th from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Jacoby will have a table outside Boutique La Muse to raise awareness and funds for the MS Society of Canada.
When I first read Susan’s profile, I felt a little lighter in the face of the pandemic. I still do.
