CHERYL HICKEY ignites
the brain health conversation
E
T Canada host Cheryl Hickey is shining a spotlight
on brain health through her participation in the
2019 Yogen Fruz Brain Project, now in its
fourth year.
The well-known television personality is one of 50 artists
who have transformed a blank brain sculpture into a
thought-provoking work of art to raise awareness about
brain health.
In an interview with BrainMatters, Hickey provides insight
into her personal reasons for becoming a Brain Project
artist, spokesperson and supporter.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO JOIN THE 2019
YOGEN FRUZ BRAIN PROJECT?
I decided to join the 2019 Brain Project because I've been
watching from the sidelines for the past three years and
I have a dad who has progressive supranuclear palsy* – a
rare brain disorder. The last few years, I have felt helpless
because there's nothing I
can do to help him. Getting
involved with the Baycrest
team makes me feel like
I can do something. I can
take some of the eyes that
are on me because of my
job and direct them to this
incredible cause, because
it affects all of us. We need
to be talking now about
ways to keep our brains healthy – not when it's too late
for a guy like my dad. That's why I'm involved.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST
CHALLENGES YOU FACE AS A CAREGIVER?
One of the biggest challenges is an emotional one. I have
to come to terms with the fact that the dad I knew is
changing and I have a different relationship with him
Cheryl Hickey speaking at The Brain
Project 2019 Media Launch
:
:
8 BrainMatters FALL/WINTER 2019
