Sarah is a classically trained dancer and choreographer who graduated from The Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow. Transitioning from dance, Sarah became a North American fitness expert on the CBS Early Morning Show and CBC's Steven and Chris. She is also a published health and fitness author. Sarah's passion for Dancing with Parkinson's ignited in 2007, when working as a personal trainer with Andy Barrie to help him find ways to physically help his body manage his PD through movement. Inspired by the Mark Morris Dance Group's innovative PD dance class, she immediately trained with them in NYC. Sarah is now the only certified Canadian in the Dance for PD Method and is a founding member of the Dance for PD Network Canada. Sarah was recently awarded a community hero award by the Raptors foundation to recognize her work to keep seniors connected during COVID-19. Click for more info

Lindsay is a seasoned marketing and communications professional with a passion for health and wellness. She brings a wide-range of practical experience and extensive training in a variety of industries from green energy and sustainability, to healthcare and mindful movement. Actively involved in her community, Lindsay contributes her extra time and energy as pilates instructor and yoga teacher, volunteer with WWF-Canada, and as a board member with her kids school and with her ski club’s environmental stewardship committee. Lindsay is deeply moved and inspired by DWP’s vision of creating meaningful connection for seniors across Canada through movement and self-expression. Having followed DWP’s journey since its inception, Lindsay is honoured to now be joining the team during this very exciting and important period of expansion.

An arts professional with over 25 years experience in multidisciplinary programming, arts education, public engagement and collaborative partnerships, Jessica has a deep commitment to cultivating community through the arts. In her former roles with the Luminato Festival and Koffler Centre of the Arts, Jessica developed and led innovative projects grounded in social practice, including many in partnership with Dancing With Parkinson’s (most notably, the intergenerational L’Allegro Movement Project). Jessica currently serves on the Board of Directors with Henna Platform, and formerly volunteered as board member and chair of CultureLink Settlement and Community Services, and on advisory committees with the Regent Park Film Festival and WeeFestival.

Lisa Eddis is a performer, dancer, actor, and graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University, appearing in film, television, and stage production globally. Lisa’s talent for community building and artist development has made her an invaluable asset to the DWP team as the Project Manager and Coordinator. Having been a volunteer with Dancing with Parkinson’s since its launch in 2008, Lisa brings a great understanding of and compassion for the organization and the community of dancers. She is committed to helping DWP grow by supporting the participants, the staff and the educators. The vibrant DWP community is a constant source of inspiration in her work to maintain and strengthen communication, collaboration and connection within the DWP family of dancers.

After completing his graduate studies at University of Toronto, Akhil started working at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health exploring aetiologies of complex psychiatric illnesses. Resources to improve quality of life while living with chronic ailments is a subject matter that is close to his heart and he feels is exemplified by Dancing with Parkinson's. He considers himself a thespian at heart, and enjoys storytelling both on a stage and in front of a camera. DWP to him represents a perfect amalgamation of his interests and passion. As the Volunteer Outreach Coordinator, he is really excited about the "DWP Salon: A Slice of Life” segment and apart from all the inspirational life stories, he considers it a privilege to have had the opportunity to interact one on one with the amazing dancers. If you have any questions, ideas, or would like to share a story for the salon, please reach out at: akhil@dancingwithparkinsons.com

Cheryl Roddick is a fundraising professional with over 25 years of experience in the charitable sector as a practitioner, consultant, and volunteer. She has led fundraising teams at a variety of charities and nonprofits, including The Stop Community Food Centre where she was Director of Development and Communications for 8 years. As a consultant, she's worked with clients from across the charitable sector including health care, education, social service and environmental organizations. She attained a CFRE designation in 2015 and holds an M.A. in Public Policy and Administration and a Combined Hon. B.A. in English and Political Science, both from McMaster University.

With a deep commitment to socially responsible business practices, anti-oppressive principles, equity, and sustainability, Ann Marie has devoted her career to working and volunteering with both Canadian and international organizations that empower the development and success of vulnerable communities. As a champion for change, Ann Marie is dedicated to nurturing resilience and making a meaningful impact through innovation and operational excellence.

Ann Marie is thrilled to join the talented team at DWP. Their commitment to empowering lives and creating connected communities through compassion and empathy is truly inspiring.