The LOCAL Making A Difference Award is presented to an individual who has displayed outstanding dedication or has been responsible for outstanding accomplishments of local significance in multiple births issues within Canada.

The 2012 MADA award in the Local category was presented to Michelle Van Dijk of the Kitchener-Waterloo Parents of Multiple Births Assocation.

Michelle is a positive and engaging member of the K-W Pomba Executive. As current Treasurer for the club, she keeps the Board on track with their spending, but also goes out of her way to find ways to save the chapter money, and makes sure the sale disbursements, including hundreds of cheques, are completed successfully and promptly. Counting the money isn’t all Michelle does though, she spends countless hours volunteering at social events, helping those members in need, and has spent many hours with new and expectant parents, connecting with them and counselling them as needed. Her personality and drive are considered to be huge assets to the club.

She is respectful and dedicated, energetic and humble. Her logical and calming nature have helped the Board through many challenges. Michelle has dedicated so many hours of her time representing K-W POMBA and helping their members while still holding down a full-time job, raising four beautiful children and supporting and championing for her physically disabled husband.

Her peers had no trouble nominating Michelle, describing her as “someone who understands what you are going through and helps you”, as “amazing, remarkable and irreplaceable”, and as “an asset to our club in so many more ways”. They felt Michelle deserved to be recognized for her tireless efforts and her selfless giving. Multiple Births Canada agrees and congratulates Michelle for Making A Difference!

Michelle: "I feel very honored to have been nominated and chosen for this award. I have been indebted to my local chapter KW POMBA since finding out I was expecting Baby 3 and 4 to our family at 9 weeks pregnant in 2005. We knew the chances of multiples would be higher with having to go the fertility treatment route due to my husband's paralysis. From the moment I found out, I immediately contacted the club for assistance and support. I was so overwhelmed and touched with support and generosity that I decided when my daughters were 8 months old, I would start training to become a Peer Health Worker, and join the Executive Board. I have never looked back. These last 6 plus years have been amazing. It makes my heart feel warm to give back to those who needed what I needed back at the beginning. I have made so many friendships throughout this club and I will be forever grateful for that."