Catherine Mulkins has joined Connie Zalmanowitz as Co-Chair of DMRF Canada. She brings both professional expertise and a deeply personal connection to dystonia. Catherine is the first Board Chair living with dystonia, offering a perspective that is both unique and powerful.
Catherine began experiencing symptoms before the age of 10, including a progressive tremor that has significantly impacted her daily life. Despite years without a diagnosis, she adapted with resilience, even teaching herself to write with her non-dominant hand before eventually losing the ability to write altogether. She was not diagnosed until age 41, a moment that brought both validation and the difficult realization that her dystonia is progressive and hereditary.
Her connection to DMRF Canada began through her family. After her diagnosis, her sister Jenny discovered the organization and became involved in its major fundraiser, now known as the Freedom to Move Run, Walk and Wheel. Catherine and her family quickly became deeply engaged, forming one of the top fundraising teams year after year. Today, dystonia affects multiple members across generations of her family, strengthening their commitment to advocacy and community involvement.
Fundraising remains central to Catherine’s contributions, but she also brings over two decades of experience in human resources from her career at Intact Insurance. There, she gained expertise in leadership, workplace accommodations and succession planning, skills she now applies to strengthening DMRF Canada’s future. She is already focused on board development and sustainability, helping to recruit new volunteers and leaders.
Catherine credits her strong network of family, friends and colleagues as a lifeline. Their support has enabled her to navigate the challenges of dystonia and inspired her to give back. She is passionate about encouraging others living with dystonia to share their stories and get involved, helping them feel less isolated and more empowered.
Her leadership is grounded in empathy, lived experience and a commitment to building a stronger future for the dystonia community. As Co-Chair, Catherine aims to ensure DMRF Canada continues to grow its impact in fundraising, research and advocacy.
DMRF Canada is proud to welcome Catherine Mulkins as Co-Chair. Her voice, experience and dedication will help guide the organization forward in its mission to support those affected by dystonia and work toward a cure.
To read more about Catherine Click here.