Helen Hatzis

My Hero, Helen, and I

For many weeks, I have been writing and learning, about my hero, Helen Hatzis. I chose Helen because she has done so much for charity and she gives her time to important causes. My Hero takes the time to give back.

Helen was born in East York, Ontario. W.A. Porter C.I. in Scarborough is the high school Helen attended. Helen attended Glendon College of York University, where she majored in English Literature with a minor in Theatre. She also went to the University of Southern California for Film and Television. Helen continued studying film and television at Vancouver Film School. Parents of my hero are Mary and the late Peter Hatzis. She has an older sister, Gloria and younger brother, Nick. Helen is also a mother to a beautiful 4 year old daughter Isabella Zoie.

An interesting fact about Helen is that she loves to skateboard, rollerblade and surf. She will be attending surf camp in California with her daughter this summer.

Helen has always been influenced and impressed by individuals such as Martin Luther King and Mother Theresa because they set out to do good things. It has made Helen strive to be a better person, to help those in need. "It’s not about writing a donation cheque, I'd much rather give my time to connect with those in need. If everyone took the time to give back, the world would be a better place".

As a child, Helen grew up with a disabled father. It was difficult to see her Dad's health decline. Her Dad Peter passed away from AMN (Adrenomyeloneuropathy) in 2004. Helen also discovered she was a carrier of a very rare genetic disease, Adrenoleukodystrophy. By learning as much as she could about the disease, Helen was able to help out women in the same situation. She found it rewarding and helped her overcome her obstacles.

Ms Hatzis has displayed actions of a hero with the volunteering she has been doing for many years. Helen has been volunteering with the Youth Bocce for nine years. This group implements the Sport of Bocce into the special needs school curriculum. For 10 years, Helen has been with The Myelin project. This cause propels awareness and funds research initiative to help remyelinate individuals with demyelinating diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis and the Leukodystrophies.

Helen has accomplished many achievements. Two years ago, Youth Bocce was recognized by the Special Olympics. They became Canada's Official team placing third at Italy's games. Another cool achievement Helen has accomplished is obtaining her motorcycle license and she owns a vintage cafe racer.

Helen displays many character traits, such as, determination, loyalty, and dedication, just to name a few. My hero has shown determination for living life to the fullest. Helen has travelled to Asia, Europe, South America and North America. Her Dad always said "Enjoy life, enjoy each day because life is too short." Helen took these words to heart.

In 2002, Helen helped set up the Canadian Chapter of The Myelin Project she has been dedicated and loyal to bringing awareness and to help organize fundraising events for research.

I have been influenced by my hero, by giving back and taking time to help others in need. I am determined to have a booth at the Carrotfest in Bradford, Ontario in Canada, this summer, to help The Myelin Project. I would like to sell snow cones and have lots of information on how people can help this important cause.