04/22/2026
Maddy has been volunteering at CancerCare Manitoba for nearly 2 years, making a powerful impact behind the scenes.
She first started volunteering in her second year of university, inspired by two things close to her heart: her grandfather’s lifelong commitment to giving back, and her own family’s experience with cancer care. Wanting to “pay it forward,” she signed up, initially with a bit of extra time, but also a desire to be part of something meaningful.
What began with small acts, serving drinks from the refreshment cart, helping in the gift shop eventually led her to the Guardian Angel Caring Room, where she now supports patients through wig fittings.
And it’s here where the experience has truly stayed with her.
“When people come in for their wig fittings, they often don’t feel like themselves,” she shares. “They’re not expecting much, but when they find something they like, when they start to feel even a little more confident, that moment is everything.”
For Maddy, it’s not just about the wigs. It’s about helping someone feel like themselves again, even in the midst of something incredibly difficult.
Volunteering has also been a journey of growth for her. Once shy, she’s become more confident in connecting with others, listening deeply, and seeing life through a wider lens.
“It really puts things into perspective,” she says. “You might be stressed about school or work, but then you come in and you realize there’s so much more going on in the world. It changes how you see things.”
What stands out most to her about volunteering at CancerCare Manitoba is the environment, one filled with kindness, compassion, and genuine connection.
“Everyone is so positive and welcoming. It makes it easy to keep coming back.”
Her advice to anyone thinking about volunteering?
“Just take that first step. Even if you start small, getting involved in your community can change you. You learn about others but you also learn a lot about yourself.”
