Community

In 2011 Kim’s husband Ross was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s disease affects more than 100,000 Canadians, including 8,000 in Ottawa. It is the most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s, and there are no proven treatments to slow progression - only drugs to help manage the wide range of symptoms.

Since 2013, Kim has been an active co-chair of Partners Investing in Parkinson’s Research (PIPR). This grassroots initiative was developed by a group of people who wanted to make a difference in the lives of their loved ones by raising funds to support the world-class research being done in Ottawa.

PIPR has since raised a total of $1,300,000 having surpassed their goal of $1,000,000 in 2015, 3 years ahead of plan. All funds raised stay in Ottawa and are put to use in the research labs of the Parkinson’s Research Consortium at the Ottawa Hospital.

Much like her design work, Kim infuses the same energy and commitment to high standards in her philanthropic work within the community. In recognition of her efforts, Kim was honoured to be awarded the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers for the Governor General in 2016.

In November of that same year, PIPR volunteers were awarded the Outstanding Philanthropic Group Award by the Association of Fundraising Professionals Ottawa Chapter as nominated by the Ottawa Hospital Foundation.

For more information about PIPR, or if you would like to donate, please visit: Partners Investing in Parkinson’s Research.