Page 44 - Bringing UHN into Focus - 2015-2016 Year in Review

The Arthritis Research Foundation

Jalynn Bennett’s family continues her
tradition of generosity

The Arthritis Research Foundation was particularly important to Jalynn Jalynn’s daughter, Alex, and her niece, Kara, both
Bennett, who passed away in 2015, as she had family members affected by have Rheumatoid Arthritis and they initiated a
arthritis or autoimmune conditions. (Photo: Courtesy Listed Magazine) campaign to raise funds to support R.A. research.
“You can imagine how Kara and I are determined
to seek solutions to ensure that our children
and grandchildren will not have to suffer the
pain, depression, isolation and stress that have
wreaked havoc on our lives,” Alex said.
Building on the success of the “Kara and Alex
Fund,” Alex’s daughter, India, knew what to do
when she was assigned a project in Grade 4. With
a family affected by R. A., she chose to create a
fundraising event for her project – hosting a tea
party for friends to learn more about the disease
and current research. India’s “Hope Campaign”
inspires everyone who hears about it.
We cannot thank the Bennett family enough for
their support.

The Arthritis Research Foundation lost a good friend in 2015. Jalynn Bennett’s granddaughter, India, (L), and
Jalynn Bennett was a dynamic business woman, respected daughter, Alex, have continued her tradition of
by her peers as well as those in the charitable sector who generosity toward ARF. (Photo: ARF)
benefitted from her generosity for many years.
“Jalynn’s impact on the Arthritis Research Foundation is
profound,” said her friend, Jim Meekison, ARF advisory board
member. “She served on the Board of Directors and was
committed to helping us find better treatments, and someday
a cure for arthritis and autoimmune diseases.”
ARF was especially important to Jalynn as many of her
family members are affected by arthritis or autoimmune
conditions. In fact, her legacy includes inspiring her daughter,
granddaughter and niece to become philanthropists.

44 Bringing UHN into Focus