King Charles III's Coronation Medal Recipients
Celiac Canada has the honour of being selected by the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General to nominate 51 individuals for the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal in Canada.
This commemorative medal honours Canadians who have made significant contributions to Canada or a particular province, territory, region or community of Canada, or have made an outstanding achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada. It celebrates their achievements, dedication, and commitment to the well-being of Canadian society.
“These medals honour the leaders, advocates, and changemakers within Canada’s celiac community—those who raise awareness publicly and those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to improve lives,” said Melissa Secord, Executive Director of Celiac Canada.
“The recipients of the King Charles III Coronation Medals embody the spirit of dedication and service that strengthens our celiac community. Their contributions—whether through advocacy, research, or support—have created lasting change, and this recognition is a well-deserved tribute to their impact. On behalf of Celiac Canada, we celebrate and thank them for their unwavering commitment.” said Lizbeth Wall, President of the Celiac Canada Board of Directors.
Celiac Canada will celebrate the honourees at ceremonies across Canada prior to March 31, 2025.
This celebration is made possible with the generous support of O’Doughs, a long-standing champion of the gluten-free community and a committed advocate for those living with celiac disease.
Celiac Canada is proud to announce the following King Charles III Coronation Medal recipients (in alphabetical order):
Michael Abbott
Ontario
Michael is the Section Head, Food Biomolecules Section, Chemical Health Hazard Assessment Division, Bureau of Chemical Safety, Health Products and Food Branch of Health Canada. He has been instrumental in protecting and advancing food safety, which is critical to the health of people living with celiac disease.
Alexandar Anca, RD.
Ontario
Alexandra served on the CCA Professional Advisory Council for 11 years. She is Toronto area dietitian who specializes in Gastroenterology. She worked on key pieces of research including oral and dental health and bone health impacts of celiac disease along with Dr. Rashid and Marion Zarkadas. Her most significant impact was as author and lead researcher of the first ever Dictionary of acceptable safe foods for celiacs. Still to this day it is the only one of its kind in the world. The “Pocket Dictionary” which it has been fondly known as has been a go-to resource for thousands of newly diagnosed Canadians. The dictionary was transformed into a mobile application and is still a main resources today. Alexandra’s expertise has been in providing nutritional information for patients to help them navigate their disease. She has also authored the Complete Gluten-free Diet and Nutrition Guide and the Total Food Allergy Health and Diet Guide.She has been published in numerous medical peer-reviewed journals. She has also served as a spokesperson.
Robert Beddie
Ontario
Robert Beddie has been a longstanding national volunteer. He has served as national treasurer and on his local Belleville Chapter as President and Treasurer. He has been a staunch supporter of CCA National helping to advance advocacy efforts. His passion has centered around celiac disease having a voice in Ottawa in order to ensure people with celiac disease have access to safe food. Without a voice in Ottawa, he has said, it would be easy for lawmakers to change regulations that would not maintain access to the food we need. Mr. Beddie as a CA, was also interested in advocacy work to improve affordability.
Norm Berberich
Ontario
Norm has been a tremendous patient ally for over 10 years. In his role at Takeda, he has gone above and beyond to bring awareness to health disorders such as celiac and rare diseases. He has contributed to improved health outcomes and patient education.
Jerry Bigam
Alberta
Jerry has been a pioneer in gluten-free foods since 1997, where he took start up local bakery Kinnikinnick international. They built the first e-commerce platform for home delivery. $10 to your door anywhere in North America. Business booms especially in rural areas where GF was virtually impossible to find. In 2000, Safeway Canada became the 1st major grocery chain to stock GF bread in the freezer which was another first. He has been a leading force in innovating Free From products to make more food available for those with celiac disease and other major allergens. He has been an innovator in quality foods that meet the highest standards of safety. Jerry prided himself on quality and safety as his wife has celiac disease. Jerry was an active supporter of the local Edmonton food bank and supported the Edmonton Chapter of Celiac Canada for many years including the famous Gluten-free Pancake Breakfast at the Calgary Stampede.
Janet Bolton
Ontario
During her term as national president, Janet helped CCA transform from an membership association to a full charity by supporting governance modernization. She was a champion participating in all aspects of national activities and fundraising by leading by example. Janet’s legal background has been a source of great expertise helping local chapters and national navigate governance improvements and policy modernization. She has also been a leader in improving affordability with extensive tax policy research and insights. She is a go-to resource for challenging issues involving human rights or patient advocacy when access to safe food has been an issue.
Dr. Decker Butzner
Alberta
Former Chair of the Professional Advisory Council until 2018. He is Professor Emeritus at the University of Calgary. Dr. Butzner, an expert in pediatric gastroenterology, has helped lead and advance a number of key research projects for Celiac Canada including the national Celiac Health surveys, bone health, development of a diagnosis algorithm for physicians to name just a few. He was also a research collaborator on international research including the evidence-based management of pediatric patients to help set the standards for care in Canada and globally. He is listed on 61 different studies. Dr. Butzner is also active in providing patient education sessions at the Manitoba Chapter.
Shelley Case, RD.
Alberta
Shelley is known as the “Gluten Free Queen” and has given exemplary service. She has been previously awarded a Honorary Life Member and Queen’s Jubilee Medal Winner and CCA 50th ChangeMaker for her over 30 years of health advocacy, research, public awareness and leadership in Canada. She is the current Chair of CCA’s Dietitians Working Group and is a valued member of the CCA Professional Advisory Committee. She is and has supported CCA’s advocacy work which made advancements in labelling and the gluten free standards. Shelley worked with Vernon Burrows on the introduction of Purity Protocol oats which is significant to celiac health and the first of its kind in Canada. She is an author of a gluten-free guide and has spoken nationally and internationally and sits on other international advisory boards and has been a collaborator on countless peer-reviewed research articles. She has been a part of key research and active consultant to help improve quality of life for people living with celiac disease. She has been one of the single most significant contributors in Canada for the disease.
Janet Dalziel
Ontario
Janet Dalziel was a national president and active board member for a number of years. She still continues her volunteer service giving hundreds of hours fielding thousands of emails on CCA’s Support Desk and in the national office and reviewing publication content. Janet led the board when the Gluten Free Certification Program was launched which was a critical program to bring increased access to safe food, and help Canada become an international leader in food safety. Janet has helped CCA expand its support services with her bilingual language skills to help provide more inclusive patient support which is critical to the mission of Celiac Canada. Janet has helped review and develop patient resources and her no-nonsense style gives practical advice to expand our peer support and authored articles to improve day to day lives for people living with the disease. She is an active member of the CCA Facebook Peer Group and offers her knowledge for articles in the national magazine. She is always willing to help and roll up her sleeves. Janet was awarded a Lifetime Honour by CCA for her leadership.
Jessica Danford
Ontario
Jessica was a community advocate for food insecurity. When she served on Celiac Canada’s national board, she led the education of food banks and inspired Celiac Canada’s Save me for Gluten Free food bank initiative. She personally ran food drives and supported a number of families through her generosity and entrepreneurial spirit. She collected thousands of pounds of gluten-free food and stored it in her little car and garage. She became a vital link to suppliers and families who were in critical need of support. Jessica was our first Honourary Captain of our first Scotiabank Charity Challenge Marathon and inspired Canadians to Step Up for Celiac and begin our 5 year tradition.
Amy Davis
Ontario
Amy Davis is the other half of the Caledon Ontario farm family that operates the Davis Family Farm. Their journey started the day Weston started eating solid food. He just couldn’t keep it down. Initially it was thought to be a virus. Failing to thrive as a toddler, Amy, Sean and their family doctor knew something wasn’t right and they ended up taking him to Sick Kids Hospital. After many anxious times and persistence, they finally got a diagnosis – celiac disease. Soon after Sean was diagnosed too. After that the family leaned in to become ambassadors for the disease, raising awareness among tens of thousands of people every year through their annual Toronto Sunflower Festival. Every dollar from every entry to the festival, they contribute $1 to Celiac Canada. In addition to the festival, Amy and Sean promote celiac disease throughout the year through their social channels, participate in events and even have a Haunted House experience all supporting charity and awareness. they also helped sell sunflower seeds for Celiac Canada — filling every single packet of hundreds of orders while they watched TV! They are simply amazing and kind.
Sean Davis
Ontario
Sean Davis found out he had celiac disease because of his son’s diagnosis at 3 years of age. Sean and his family decided to support and raise awareness of celiac disease and create an annual Sunflower Festival. Each year the Davis family welcomes thousands of people to their farm and a portion of the proceeds goes to support programs for Celiac Canada. In addition to raising funds, the family actively provides education and participates in outreach events to support more awareness. The family also hosts an annual Haunted Walk and supports Celiac Canada with free sunflower seeds for sales to support initiatives. Sean participates in awareness video’s and media to share his journey to alert Canadians to their risk of celiac disease.
Christa Dubesky
Manitoba
Christa Dubesky has served as the president for the Manitoba Chapter for the past 5 years. She is being recognized for her national leadership among chapter leaders. Christa has helped provide additional education and support for our pan-Canadian Chapters. She has always been ready to support other leaders to navigate programs and outreach. She has led an innovative partnership with Manitoba Harvest to expand gluten free food hampers across Manitoba to those most vulnerable.
Don Duerksen
Manitoba
Dr. Duerksen is the Chair of the Professional Advisory Council. He has led significant research for Celiac disease in Canada including the internationally recognized DOGGIE Bag study, international clinical guideline review and State of Celiac Disease in Canada and written many peer-reviewed articles. He led with two other PAC an international evidence based review of clinical practice guidelines. He leads annual trips to Rwanda where he provides medical training to local doctors to advance patient care. Dr. Duerksen was awarded with a CCA ChangeMaker Award.
Treena Duncan
British Columbia
Treena is a past national president of Celiac Canada. Treena was instrumental in the redevelopment of CCA during the “dark days” providing leadership in the areas of human resources and policy development. Treena’s leadership brought stability and strong governance practices along with helping elevate CCA’s board nominations process to bring stronger skills-based leaders to support the organization. Treena is currently one of our dedicated Facebook Support Group Moderators who is supporting 25,000 individuals. She tactfully navigates questions, challenges, personal posts and offers of comfort in this 24/7 forum.
Margaret Duthie
Quebec
Margaret has served with the Quebec Chapter and Support group for over 15 years. She has made a national impact on work on translation of materials into French, served on national grant committees, and has been instrumental on increasing collaboration with Coeliaque Quebec especially on resources such as a practical guide for seniors care. She has been an active participant in all national fundraising events such as walking 5 km. She is also a national peer supporter offering help to the patients who are newly diagnosed. She has helped develop peer network resources and been available to speak with anyone who needs help with celiac disease. As a Master of Social Work, she is keenly interested in developing patient resources and running events to increase education and awareness. Her energy is boundless.
Claude Gaudet
Quebec
Claude Gaudet a cofondé la Fondation québécoise de la maladie coeliaque en 1983 avec Michelle Laflamme Dt.p. « Tout a commencé en 1983 par une conversation téléphonique avec Michelle Laflamme au sujet de l’arrêt de la production du pain sans gluten en conserve par une compagnie américaine. C’était notre seule option pour pouvoir manger des « toasts » le matin avec nos œufs. Michelle m’a invité à une réunion du comité de la Corporation des diététistes du Québec où la diète sans gluten allait être révisée. Ce comité de diététistes a constitué le premier conseil d’administration de la Fondation québécoise de la maladie coeliaque (FQMC), qui est devenue Cœliaque Québec. Merci aux diététistes qui nous permettent depuis 40 ans de manger des « toasts » et des milliers d’autres produits sans gluten. Selon moi, la création de la fondation a entre autres permis d’accélérer le processus de reconnaissance et de sensibilisation à la maladie, tant auprès de la population générale que des professionnels de la santé. Sa mission, soit celle d’offrir du soutien et de l’information, est toujours demeurée la même et j’en suis très fier. Tout est parti d’une volonté de solidarité, de s’aider les uns les autres. » Encore aujourd’hui, il s’implique en participant aux événements et participe activement aux réflexions stratégiques de Coeliaque Québec. C’est au-delà de 40 ans d’implication pour une cause qu’il a à son actif.
Dr. Dominica Gidrewicz
Alberta
With a focus on pediatric celiac disease as both a Clinical lecturer and researcher, Dr. Gidrewicz has advanced clinical care standards, ensuring improved quality of life for children and their families. She has been a member of Celiac Canada’s Professional Medical Advisory Council for over a decade and significantly contributed to patient tools and resources to improve quality of life and management.
Dr. Samuel Godefroy
Quebec
Dr. Samuel Godefroy served in senior food regulatory positions with Health Canada for over 10 years including Director General of Health Canada’s Food Directorate. After meetings with dietitian Marion Zarkadas and other members of the Canadian Celiac Association Professional Advisory Board, Samuel developed a keen interest in celiac disease and food allergies. He and key staff at Health Canada collaborated with then Canadian Celiac Association on various research initiatives including the CCA national survey that led to various publications including Clinical Features and Symptom Recovery on a Gluten-Free Diet in Canadian Adults with Celiac Disease as well as Living with Celiac Disease and a Gluten-Free Diet: A Canadian Perspective.Another major accomplishment was enhanced food labelling regulatory changes and a scientific review of the safety of oats for people with celiac disease. Under Dr. Godefroy’s leadership and support within Health Canada and the work initiated by Marion Zarkadas years earlier, many of the critical regulatory changes such as the Enhanced Labelling of food allergens, gluten sources and added sulphites as well as the scientific review on the safety of oats and finding a creative regulatory solution enabling specially processed oats to be labelled with a gluten-free claim became a reality. He was instrumental in changing regulations and legislation to improve standards for food safety and access for people with celiac disease in Canada. He continues to advocate for food safety at international levels with the WHO in particular on Precautionary Labelling Standards. He is a professor at Laval University. Dr.Godefroy was awarded with a CCA Change Maker Award in 2023.
Dr. Patrick Godet
Quebec
Depuis plus de 25 ans, Dr godet s’implique activement auprès de Coeliaque Québec. La nutritionniste Michelle Laflamme, coeliaque et cofondatrice de la Fondation québécoise de la maladie coeliaque devenue Coeliaque Québec, est à l’origine de son implication. « La cause me tenait à cœur et le poste allait me permettre de démystifier la maladie coeliaque, de mettre mes compétences au profit de l’organisme et des adhérentes e adhérents, soutient le membre du comité scientifique. Je participe au développement et à l’animation de formations sur la maladie coeliaque auprès des médecins et d’autres spécialistes de la santé, je réponds aux questions des membres, notamment lors du webinaire « Micro ouvert avec nos experts », je vulgarise des avancées en recherche dans le magazine, etc. J’aime donner au suivant. « Ayant lui-même joui de l’appui de personnes significatives au début de son parcours, il en saisit l’importance et il tient à en faire profiter à autrui. Le spécialiste a reçu, en 2012 le prix Michelle-Laflamme reconnaissant l’engagement d’un professionnel ou d’une professionnelle de la santé pour l’avancement des connaissances et l’éducation de la maladie coeliaque. L’organisme se réjouit de l’apport du précieux gastroentérologue, un être généreux, et impliqué, qui a d’ailleurs participé avec enthousiasme, à la fin de l’été 2023, au pique-nique soulignant son 40ème anniversaire. « C’était une occasion de rencontrer l’équipe, mais aussi les membres, de discuter avec des gens touchés par la maladie coeliaque. » Un agréable moment qui fait foi de son implication et de sa bienveillance.
Julie Greene
Newfoundland & Labrador
Lance Hill
British Columbia
Lance was the Allergy and Nutrition Program Specialist at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for many years followed by a position at Health Canada’s Food Directorate as a Food Policy Liaison Officer . He developed a special interest in food safety education for celiac disease and gluten-free products. Lance provided his expertise and support to CCA and attended CCA national conferences and Professional Advisory Board meetings to hear the issues about celiac disease regarding food labelling and our recommendations for policy changes. Lance retired in 2013. We are grateful for Lance’s expertise and long-time dedication to helping the celiac community in Canada!
Janet Hilson
Ontario
Janet is a quiet leader who has helped Celiac Canada redefine itself through improving patient and healthcare education. Her unwavering support has allowed CCA to expand its reach and improve quality of life through dietitian led services and program development. CCA would not have been able to develop over 30 new resources if it were not for her assistance. She is passionate about raising awareness through action and compassion.
Sue Jennett
Ontario
Sue Jennett is the President of the Kingston Chapter of CCA. At the national level she is an active member of CCA’s Food Security Working Group to help get gluten-free food into the hands of those who need it. Sue leads a podcast to help people improve their knowledge of celiac disease. She has created a safe space for sharing patient stories and helps inform the community. Sue has developed educational resources to help families navigate celiac disease and was awarded a CCA SuperVolunteer award in 2023.
Mark Johnson
British Columbia
Mark Johnson has been a key volunteer but during the economic crises for CCA during the early to mid-2000s he went above and beyond to help CCA continue. Mark served on the board for 8 years. Mark was instrumental in developing and leading communication channels for CCA to reach more individuals and help maintain membership. He regularly writes newsletters for many Chapters across Canada to keep individuals informed and regularly participates in fundraising campaigns. He has been the Chair of the Conference Committee for the past 4 years leading our national online conference work. Mark also served as Chapter President for Ottawa for several years. He has been a leader in educating celiacs about safe international travel. Mark was awarded a CCA ChangeMaker Award.
Roberta Kramchynsky
Ontario
Roberta is being recognized for her exemplary leadership in advocating for people with celiac disease to help bring to the forefront issues affecting their day to day lives. She is also an active member of the Ottawa Chapter and is a leader at Carleton University Alumni.
Edith Lalanne
Quebec
Edith Lalanne, Directrice générale, Cœliaque Québec. Pendant ses études, Edith Lalanne a travaillé en tant que préposée aux bénéficiaires. Elle obtient son Baccalauréat en administration des affaires (BAA) de l’Université Laval en 1994. Par la suite, elle occupera des postes de chef de marque, de produits et de projets au sein de différents secteurs dont les domaines médical, alimentaire, manufacturier et pharmaceutique. En 2013, son fils reçoit le diagnostic de la maladie cœliaque. En 2015, elle se joindra au conseil d’administration de l’organisation. Quelques années plus tard, c’est avec fierté qu’elle met toutes ses compétences professionnelles pour rallier les nombreux intervenants des différents secteurs liés à la cause des cœliaques en tant que directrice générale.
Nicole LeBlanc
Quebec
Pour Coeliaque Québec, Nicole a contribué à plusieurs projets depuis un peu plus de 20 ans. Elle a publié des recettes et écrits des articles dans le magazine en plus de participer à la création d’outils d’information, des formations pour les personnes cœliaques, mais aussi pour les professionnels de la santé, en plus de faire des entrevues dans les médias. Nicole est engagée pour la cause et sa persévérance a définitivement entraîné des répercussions positives sur Coeliaque Québec. Elle s’est également impliquée au sein des comités nutrition et scientifique pendant plusieurs années mettant ainsi sa minutie et sa rigueur au profit de la communauté coeliaque. Il lui est souvent arrivé au cours des années de donner des conférences à d’autres professionnels de la santé sur le sujet de la maladie coeliaque. Et chaque fois qu’elle le pouvait, elle participait aux événements organisés par Coeliaque Québec pour rencontrer la communauté. C’est pour toutes ces raisons qu’elle a reçu, en 2013, le Prix Michelle-Laflamme pour son implication remarquable.
Lynda Marie Neilson
British Columbia
Lynda Marie Neilson has been a patient champion her whole life. She was one of the founding members of our online Facebook group supporting thousands of individuals with lived experience. She supported the development of education resources with Celiac Canada dietitians and also managed info@ desk emails where she fielded hundreds of email and was a moderator on our growing Facebook community being available nearly 24/7, for which she was presented with a CCA Changemaker Award. She was the President of the Vancouver/BC Chapter for a decade and then for the National Office, wrote educational content, and presented many webinars such as ones on GF101 and GF medical expenses. Thousands of individuals have been helped by Lynda and her willingness to be a champion of self empowerment.
Inez Martincevic, RD.
Ontario
Inez Martincevic is a registered dietitian working at the pediatric gastroenterology clinic at the Hospital for Sick Children. She was one of the founding members of the CCA Dietitians Working Group and has become a leader on the team. She has volunteered hundreds of hours to help CCA develop evidence-based resources to help fellow dietitians across Canada improve patient care and knowledge of celiac disease. Inez is a champion of patient education leading resources for both SickKids (All About Kids Health). She is also an active member of CCA’s Professional Advisory Council. Inez has been critical in supporting advancements in patient care and a regular contributor to educational articles and resources with the highest quality of evidence.
Jo Anne Murray
Alberta
Jo Anne, a dedicated Medical Radiation Technologist (X-ray Technologist) by profession, has been a driving force in public education for Celiac Canada at the national level. With a passion for advocacy, she has authored countless articles, providing critical insights and guidance for those living with celiac disease. Beyond her writing, Jo Anne has been a steadfast supporter of the community, playing a pivotal role in developing essential patient resource tools that have significantly improved the quality of life for individuals managing the disease. Her commitment to education and empowerment has left a lasting impact on the celiac community across Canada.
Sue Newell
Ontario
Known as “Celiac Sue” for her evidence-based approach to celiac knowledge delivered in a compassionate and understandable to anyone. Sue was a national board leader and then volunteered and eventually managed the CCA office during “the difficult times.” and led advocacy and development of education materials to help keep the organization going . She was key in advocacy on beer and food labelling, ‘Cheerios’ issue. She managed and moderated CCA’s growing Facebook group platform in the early days and supported thousands. Because of her knowledge and approach, the CCA group exploded in growth as a safe and informative resource for community members. Sue was instrumental in the Agriculture grant to help improve access to gluten-free grains. Sue has written federal submissions and participated in advocacy efforts. She continues to offer peer advice through CCA’s National help desk. Sue was previously awarded with an Honorary Life Time Membership and CCA Changemaker award.
Tracy Perry
Quebec
Mr. Perry’s daughter Lara was diagnosed with celiac disease in March 2004 so he wanted to determine if oats were safe as they were a nutritious GF option. After extensive research with health professionals, Celiac Canada and agrifood experts, and numerous discussions and meetings for many years with Health Canada and Agri-Foods and Agriculture Canada they decided to venture into the business of specialty gluten-free oats. By early October he had figured out 90% of the protocol for producing “pure, uncontaminated” oats. He incorporated the company 8 months after Lara’s diagnosis .Their first truckload shipment (about 10 tonnes) of “pure” rolled oats were received in November 2005 – grown at in Staffa, ON and processed by Hilton Whole Grain Millers in Staffa, ON. First commercial sales of GF oats in printed retail boxes to the U.S. were in January, 2006. First commercial sales of “pure, uncontaminated, wheat free” oats in plastic pouches to Canada in January 2006 and in printed retail boxes in February 2007.They sold gluten-free oat flakes and flour sold under the name Lara’s gluten-free oats in honour of their daughter. Tracy retired and the company was closed in 2017.
Dr. Maria Ines Pinto-Sanchez
Alberta
Dr. Pinto-Sanchez, an Associate Professor at McMaster University, Hamilton Health Sciences. She serves on CCA’s Professional Advisory Council since 2015. She is a Gastroenterologist, clinician scientist and Nutrition specialist. She co-founded with Dr Bercik the adult Celiac Clinic at McMaster, and has been leading the clinic since 2017. She is a clinician scientist at the Farncombe institute, and her research program focuses on nutritional adequacy of celiac disease and implementation in translational research. Dr. Pinto-Sanchez is specializing in customized dietary therapies to improve nutrition and working on practice clinical guidelines to improve patient outcomes.She has authored or been a collaborator on over 91 peer-reviewed studies. She has actively participated in national advocacy efforts and has presented in multiple at research and patient education conferences. She has started a major healthcare education program for HCP in Canada, to share her knowledge with other Canadian institutions to advance celiac disease care. She received a JACampbell award from CCA in 2023 , which is a changemaker for research and will directly impact clinical care.
Dr. Olga Pulido
Ontario
Dr. Olga Pulido, MD, was Senior Medical Advisor and Head of Pathology at the Food Directorate of the Health Products and Food Branch at Health Canada (HC) from 1992-2013. She was a key team leader and member of working groups on food directorate investigations and regulatory activities aiming to minimize risks and maximize the selection of safe and nutritious foods suitable for those with special dietary needs including celiac disease and food allergies. Olga made significant contributions to major policies and regulations for gluten and allergens. In collaboration with the CCA, she along with key individuals at Health Canada and dietitian Marion Zarkadas from the CCA Professional Advisory Board conducted celiac research initiatives including two CCA National Health Surveys which led to the co-authorship of a variety of scientific publications widely referenced by many other celiac researchers and health professionals around the world. Even in retirement, she is volunteering with the CCA for the 4th National Health Survey in 2022 The State of Celiac Disease in Canada. She played a key role in the assessment of the safety of oats for those with celiac disease and co-authored publications on Health Canada’s Position on the Introduction of Oats to the Diet of Individuals Diagnosed with Celiac Disease. She was honoured with a CCA Changemaker Award in Ottawa in 2023.
RonniLyn Pustil
Ontario
RonniLyn is a community advocate who founded Gluten Free Garage, a gluten-free food festival in Toronto, after her daughter was diagnosed with celiac disease at age 3. Since 2012, RonniLyn has helped increase the profile of celiac disease and gluten disorders in Southern Ontario via her social media platform and at the annual Gluten Free Garage festival. By collecting thousands of pounds of gluten-free food items at Gluten Free Garage, RonniLyn has supported a partnership with Celiac Canada’s Save Me for Gluten Free food bank initiative, helping to provide safe food to people experiencing food insecurity who must eat gluten free for a medical reason. Finally, with Gluten Free Garage, RonniLyn has created an event where people with celiac disease and gluten disorders can gather in community to eat happily and without worry.
Dr. Mohsin Rashid
Nova Scotia
A pediatric gastroenterologist at NWK in Halifax. He is a former member of the Professional Advisory Council who has led a wide variety of research, peer reviewed articles on celiac disease including long term care, home testing, dental and oral and bone health just to name a few. He was an early innovator and teacher in celiac disease in Canada. Many of these papers have been presented at international celiac and disease conferences. He has written books on celiac disease (Celiac Disease a Road to Diagnosis). He has participated in awareness campaigns and led education webinars and education including one in Urdu for CCA to help expand knowledge and diagnosis in underserved communities. He was an active participant in Celiac Awareness Month committees for a number of years ensuring materials were evidenced-based and patient accessible. His passion is to make healthcare accessible for patients. Mohsin also leads international missions to help educate other healthcare practitioners in the area of gastroenterology. Dr. Rashid was honored with a CCA Lifetime Honors and CCA Changemaker Award in 2023.
Bev Ruffo
Ontario
Bev Ruffo has always stepped up when the celiac community has needed her. She is a quiet and thoughtful leader who never sought the limelight, working diligently behind the scenes to get the work done. She began her board service in 1995 where she eventually held every national board role for Celiac Canada. Bev often represented Canada internationally and spoke at events to share best practices, education and knowledge to advance disease awareness. During her tenure, the organization expanded to a record high 35 chapters. She developed the first-ever national peer support program and led the training of volunteers across Canada. She was instrumental in developing with others a patient resource guidebook in Canada for celiac disease to assist the newly diagnosed navigate their disease and get access to accurate, evidence-based resources. She was also an active member of the Hamilton Chapter in her local community lending support and governance assistance. She continues to be an active volunteer with the national office and supports our Save Me for Gluten Free food bank initiative. Recently, Bev was instrumental in reconstructing CCA’s history as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations. Bev was awarded with an Honorary Life Time Membership and CCA Change Maker by CCA.
Melissa Secord, CAE
Ontario
Melissa Secord has been the National Executive Director for Celiac Canada for over 7 years. Melissa was hired to help turn around the organization and galvanize the community and showcase the amazing things that the charity represented. During her tenure, the organization has seen a 500% increase in revenue, a growth in community following the organization from 10,000 to 100,000 strong. She has overseen hiring the first ever on staff dietitians who have helped create new programs for adults and families Melissa spearheaded advocacy to get Ontario Ministry of Health to cover the diagnostic blood testing for celiac disease, which now creates pan-Canadian coverage for diagnosis. Under Melissa’s leadership, Celiac Canada has become more visible federally with the first ever Gluten-Free Breakfasts on Parliament Hill leading to the creation of the first ever all-party Celiac Caucus. Her enthusiasm and personal passion for the cause is seen in her relentless champion of the community and increasing awareness, collaborations and success for CCA.
Dr. Jocelyn Silvester
British Columbia
Dr. Silvester completed her PhD in Biology at the University of Cambridge, Cambridge, England, prior to studying medicine at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. She completed her residency at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, Canada and her Fellowship in Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at Boston Children’s Hospital. She received a CCA Young Investigator research award that started her journey in celiac disease. Dr. Silvester continues to work as a general pediatrician in remote regions of Northern Canada as well as at Boston Children’s Hospital. Her research interests include the diagnosis and management of celiac disease. She continues to advance leading edge research to advance disease management. Dr. Silvester is a regular speaker at international patient conferences to help make disease understanding more accessible.
Dr. Connie Switzer
Alberta
Dr. Connie Switzer is a gastroenterologist with a specialty in celiac disease. She was awarded a Lifetime honour by CCA for her longstanding work serving on the Professional Advisory Council. She was active in numerous celiac disease studies led by the CCA including home testing, 2002 and 2008 National Celiac Disease surveys which were the first and largest of its kind. She helped advance patient care and managing the complex gluten-free diet both in her practice and internationally.
Dr. Justine Turner
Alberta
Dr. Turner has been an active member of the CCA Professional Advisory Council for over 15 years. She has led numerous studies and mentored students on celiac research. She was part of the State of Celiac National Health Survey 2022 and the international clinical guideline review and has been instrumental in helping develop patient resources with collaborating with experts including Celiac Canada. She is also an advocate for patient education working with Alberta Health Sciences to develop an extensive series of patient education pieces that have been shared across Canada. She has also helped create a first ever Children’s Gluten Free Food Guide to help improve the health of pediatric patients. Justine believes in collaboration in order to get the best results possible. She is an expert clinician in celiac disease, helping Edmonton become one of the leading centres of excellence.
Leo Turner
Ontario
Leo made an extraordinary impact as Treasurer of Celiac Canada, joining the organization at a time of financial difficulty and playing a critical role in stabilizing and strengthening its future. He was instrumental in securing two major $500,000 grants that helped introduce safe, gluten-free grains to the Canadian market, working alongside David Congram (deceased) and Sue Newell. Beyond his financial leadership, Leo contributed hundreds of volunteer hours and remains a trusted and invaluable resource to the National Office through his ongoing administrative support and dedication.
Val Vaartnou
British Columbia
Val served as a president of the BC Chapter. She has been a longstanding volunteer at CCA National by serving on the Client Support Desk fielding thousands of inquiries. She was recognized as a Super Volunteer during CCA’s 50th anniversary. She is an active supporter of our Direct Support Groups.
Dr. Elena Verdu
Ontario
Dr. Elena Verdu is the current Director of the Farncombe Digestive Disease Centre and is the Principle Investigator at the Verdu Lab at McMaster University Health Science Centre. MD, University of Buenos Aires Doctoral MD thesis, University of Lausanne, PhD (Microbiology and Immunology) Czech Academy of Sciences, Canada Research Chair (CIHR) Tier 1 in Microbial Therapeutics and Nutrition in Gastroenterology Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS) Fellow. She is also an active member of the International Celiac Disease Society and a professor at McMaster University. Elena is currently one of the most respected international researchers. She is also avid mentor for young researchers and inspiring them to enter the field of celiac disease research with most ever Young Investigator grant awards in the James A Campbell research fund history. She has led numerous research advancements including the mechanism for how celiac disease occurs in the small intestine. This major breakthrough is through her continued work into gut microbiomes and the development of mouse models to test real reactions of gluten on specimens. Elena is the ultimate champion for the disease and is a frequent international speaker at medical conferences. She has participated in over 41 peer reviewed studies. She is a past CCA Professional Advisory Council member who continues to lead in developing collaborative projects that advance disease awareness and research in Canada and around the globe. She has supported CCA in its advocacy efforts on making diagnostic blood testing available across Canada. As Associate Editor for the Journal Gastroenterology, she led the development of a dedicated celiac disease feature in an international Gastroenterology journal, increasing awareness and medical knowledge at both primary and tertiary care levels. She is at the top of her game and has helped Canada become a leading area of science for the disease and leading us towards a cure.
Dr. Ralph Warren
Ontario
As a leader in gastroenterology, Dr. Ralph Warren was installed as the first ever Chair of CCA’s new Professional Advisory Board in 1994. In 2000, the James A Campbell Research fund was developed, the first of its kind in Canada, to advance Canadian-led research into treatment and cure for CD. The fund included a Young Investigator award to inspire up and coming researchers to advance investigations for the disease. He led and participated in several significant research projects including the first ever national Celiac Disease Health Survey in 2002 which was the largest of its kind internationally. He worked with the PAB on the first ever safe ingredient list (Pocket Dictionary) Dr. Ralph E. Warren was a consulting gastroenterologist and teacher at St. Michael’s Hospital and University of Toronto from 1968 to 2003. In 2003 he joined MedCan Clinic and the Toronto GI Clinic as a gastroenterology consultant. He was a specialist in celiac disease, gastrointestinal infection, tropical medicine and colonic cancer screening, He also served as a local advisor to the Toronto Chapter of CCA starting in 1981 and continued for many years offer advice and support. He produced a number of published articles and led talks to raise awareness of the disease. Dr. Warren is an honorary member of CCA and was awarded a CCA ChangeMaker during its 50th anniversary volunteer recognition.
Ari Weinberg
Ontario
Ari Weinberg created O’Doughs in 2007 in Toronto. It was a passion for them to create a Canadian made product that is made of natural ingredients that everyone could enjoy. Ari has lead O’Doughs to become a significant leading brand in Canada. He has become a champion of the gluten-free community by supporting critical program development through a partnership with Celiac Canada that would otherwise not be available. He has become a leader in supporting people who experience food insecurity with regular supply of product donations to food banks such as The Daily Bread.
Dayna Weiten, RD.
Manitoba
Dayna Weiten, a dedicated Registered Dietitian, has supported Celiac Canada for over seven years. As a member of the Professional Advisory Council and Registered Dietitians Working Group, she helped develop key resources like the Food Labelling Guide and Pocket Dictionary to support newly diagnosed individuals.
She has also provided expert guidance through our help desk, contributed to Canadian Celiac magazine, reviewed research grants, and supported the Manitoba Chapter.
June Williams
Ontario
June exemplifies volunteerism with her 20+ years of service to the Ottawa Chapter of Celiac Canada for over 20 years. She has been a leading voice at the national level and developed strong supports for thousands of celiac community members in Ottawa. She has also served as a champion of local issues at the national level.
Anne Wraggett
British Columbia
Anne Wraggett served as President and Treasurer of CCA National. During the “dark lean years”, Anne rallied her national board to keep CCA alive. They regularly met at the small national office, rolling up their sleeves and managed the operations. The kept a national community alive and connected. Her financial stewardship and leadership helped CCA hire its first Exec. Director after a gap of 4 years to help grow and transform the organization. Anne was also involved in the local Victoria Chapter and brought with her the importance of local and regional voices at the national level. She improved greatly collaboration and communication by instituting the first ever Council of Presidents in 2013 where Chapters and National would convene to have open dialogue, discuss challenges and develop nationwide solutions. This work helped stabilize the organization and continues to this day.
Marion Zarkadas, RD.
Ontario
Marion, a former government employee of Consumer & Corporate Affairs. Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Agriculture and Agri Foods in Ottawa, made a significant impact on nutrition and food labelling regulations to support and protect people with celiac disease. She gave over 20 years of volunteer contribution through Celiac Canada’s Professional Advisory Council and local Ottawa chapter, supporting research, public policy and educational resources.
This celebration is made possible with the generous support of O’Doughs, a long-standing champion of the gluten-free community and a committed advocate for those living with celiac disease.
