At Parkinson Canada, we are fortunate to meet extraordinary people whose kindness and vision leave a lasting impact. One such person was Judy Hazlett. Her life was marked by generosity, resilience, and a deep commitment to making the world better for others. Judy’s recent legacy gift to Parkinson Canada reflects the values she lived by – a belief in education, advocacy, and the hope for a better future for people with Parkinson’s. Her story is a celebration of a life well lived, and a reminder of the difference one person can make. 

“I had the privilege of being Judy’s friend and neighbour for more than 30 years, Judy was a giver. She would make scrapbooks for special events in people’s lives. She was always very generous with her time and dedicated to supporting a good cause.”  

– Karleen Cunnington 

Judy Hazlett’s last gift 

Generous, thoughtful, courageous, and kind – these are just some of the words used to describe Judy Hazlett, who passed away on January 25, 2019, after living a full and vibrant life. Judy was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at the age of 29 and lived with the condition for more than 40 years. Throughout that time, she met its challenges with resilience, grace, and a determination to make the best of every day. She was an avid dancer, and understood the power of movement to inspire and empower.

A passionate and lifelong teacher, Judy found joy and purpose in her work. While many look forward to retirement, Judy wanted to keep teaching for as long as possible. She was a strong advocate for those who could not always speak for themselves, supporting children with special needs and developing educational programs to help people better understand Parkinson’s. Her presentations reached diverse audiences, including people living with Parkinson’s and members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, encouraging compassion and understanding. For her dedication, Judy was awarded the prestigious Queen’s Award in Canada. 

In her personal life, Judy shared 37 years with her beloved husband, Roger Buxton. Together, they were avid hikers and pilots who loved to explore and photograph the Canadian North. After Roger’s passing, Judy drew strength from her strong Christian faith, expressing in her final days that she was ready to go home and join him. 

The words in a short piece such as this can hardly capture the vibrancy, warmth, and generosity that defined Judy Hazlett. She loved deeply, was deeply loved in return, and leaves the world a brighter place for all who knew her. She will be dearly missed. 

“Judy was highly intelligent and always wanted to teach others about Parkinson’s. She wanted to humanize it. She wanted people to see her, and all people with Parkinson’s, for who they really are and not defined by the condition.”  

– John Deacon 

Judy’s gift 

In her will, Judy left a generous gift to Parkinson Canada. She believed in the power of education and research to improve quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s and remained hopeful about advancements towards a cure. Judy also understood the value of advocacy, programs, and resources that help people navigate life with Parkinson’s today. Her legacy will help ensure this work continues. 

“Judy gave a gift because she would have liked to have seen a cure for Parkinson’s. She wanted to fund education, to bring understanding for people living with Parkinson’s. Judy truly cared a lot about others.”  

– Gloria Okada 

A special thanks 

Our gratitude goes to Karleen Cunningham, John Deacon, Gloria Okada, and Cynthia Crocker for sharing their reflections on Judy’s remarkable life. Here are some final thoughts they had on Judy. 

“Judy wanted people living with Parkinson’s to find joy in spite of the condition. She wanted them to feel hope. Judy always approached movement and Parkinson’s on her terms.”  

– Cynthia Crocker

Judy will be deeply missed.