Marking White Cane Week and World Cancer Day on the Jackie Fisher Empathy Tour: Maryam Ganni heightens awareness at Westmount H

February 4 marked two very special occasions that Inspirations’ Jackie Fisher Empathy Tour and 190 Grade 9 students at Westmount High School paid homage to in a bedazzled, impactful way. It was White Cane Week, with Maryam Ganni in the auditorium that afternoon.

During the first full week of February, Canadians across the country observe White Cane Week, which raises awareness of the challenges faced by Canadians living with vision loss. It’s a time to highlight the white cane not only as a tool for safe navigation, but also as a powerful symbol of independence.

What better time for Maryam Ganni to share her story of perseverance, resilience, and becoming an unstoppable champion no matter the situation? She came prepared to celebrate, crafting her white cane with bling and splashes of purple, ready to impress and give thanks to the tool that has given her access and ability since she began losing her vision. When introduced to the students, this blinged-up cane received resounding applause.

“Accessibility and inclusion are part of our shared obligation as stewards of these lands,” shared Samantha Smith, Personal Development and Community Involvement animator with the English Montreal School Board, during her introduction and land acknowledgement. “We must commit to removing barriers and ensure that people with blindness or low vision can move, learn, and lead with independence here in Canada.”

In addition, February 4 was World Cancer Day. While Jackie struggled with Crohn’s and Colitis, she ultimately passed away due to cancer. In his introduction, Mark Bergman, Inspirations manager of Marketing and Outreach, shared that we stand with all those and their families, facing cancer. “The Jaclyn Fisher Foundation aims to keep Jackie’s memory alive and honour her extraordinary spirit as they move forward, turning pain into purpose.”

At Inspirations, we are honoured to share Jackie’s message with students, encouraging them to be kind to themselves and others, and embrace their inner unstoppable champion.

A special thank you to Samantha Smith, the Westmount High School administrative team, and all staff and students for making this such a memorable day. We are also deeply grateful to the Jaclyn Fisher Foundation for their ongoing support and encouragement.