On behalf of the DMRF Canada Board of Directors, and grant sponsors Jackson and Jefferson Mooney, we are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2019 Jackson Mooney Patient Grant for Dystonia.
The Jackson Mooney Dystonia Patient Grant is an annual grant that was established in 2017 by Jackson Mooney, and his brother Jefferson Mooney to provide financial assistance of up to $5,000.00 for Canadian residents who are living with dystonia, in financial need, and committed to enhancing their current situation through furthering their education.
This year, the grant committee opted to provide funding for education to two worthy candidates: Hannah Schell (from Halifax, NS) and Kaylee Row (from Beaumont, AB). Both candidates are hard-working, successful individuals who have been able to demonstrate their tenacity and focus on pursuing their career goals.
Hannah was diagnosed with Generalized Early Onset Dystonia when she was four years old and has spent her life working towards her goals. Hannah will be using the funds from the Jackson Mooney Patient Grant to fund her dream of becoming an early childhood educator. She Is currently enrolled In Early Childhood Education Level 1 training, and she expects to finish In 2020, with a long term goal to open up her own childcare/environmental education center focused on inclusion for children with diverse needs and helping to foster a sense appreciation for nature and all living things, regardless of their differences.
Kaylee, now 19 years old, was diagnosed with dystonia at the age of 16 after years of being shuffled through the medical system. Kaylee, a determined individual, believes that “you make the best of life no matter how tough you have it”. Furthering her education has always been a dream and is very important to her. This grant will help to fund Kaylee’s Early Learning and Child Care program at MacEwan University.
“We’re extremely proud to support these outstanding young women who have continually proven themselves in spite of significant challenges”, said Jackson Mooney, who along with his brother Jeff, launched the grant in 2017. “I understand how important it is to provide opportunities for others in the community who are doing what they can to make the most of their situation. And these two individuals are very worthy candidates.”
On behalf of the dystonia community, DMRF Canada wishes to thank Jefferson and Jackson, and we wish Kaylee and Hannah the very best of luck with their future endeavors.