Determination: Dr. Michelle McKenzie's ALS Fight

Colleagues and friends,

My name is Virginia Donati and I would like to tell you about my friend, Dr. Michelle McKenzie. Michelle has been practicing optometry with her husband, Dr. Vince Panzica, and serving the community of Bolton and surrounding areas since 1992. She is a member of the Canadian Association of Optometrists and the Ontario Association of Optometrists. She is a leader in the field of Vision Therapy and rehabilitation as a clinical associate of the Optometric Extension Program Foundation, a Fellow in the College of Optometrists in Vision Development and is the current president of Vision Therapy Canada. A nurturing educator by nature, Michelle is an clinical clerkship supervisor for the University of Waterloo School of Optometry and is a residency supervisor. She is a daughter, sister, loving wife, a mother to three amazing daughters, and she needs our help!

Earlier this month, Michelle was diagnosed with ALS. Michelle and her family are unfortunately all too familiar with the battle to come. Her brother, Colin, faces the same illness.

Courageous and determined, Michelle continues to practice optometry because she loves her profession and her patients, but changes will need to be made. Fewer patients, more rest, mobility aids, and an uncertain future add financial stress.

If love, respect and admiration could cure illness, Michelle wouldn’t need our help. Your donation will help Michelle, Colin, and so many others facing ALS. Please contribute. All funds will go to Michelle. She will use as needed and donate directly to ALS Canada on behalf of the McKenzie family.

With gratitude,

Virginia Donati