If you haven’t heard of Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), you aren’t alone. But thanks to a recent, local golf tournament here in Oakville, players just raised $200,000 for the cause.
To celebrate her 50th anniversary in the insurance industry, Jacinta Whyte, President and Chair of the Canadian Osteogenesis Imperfecta Society (COIS), raised $200,000 for Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) research in honour of Dr. Francis Glorieux, whose work greatly benefited her daughter and others with the condition.
The Golden Jubilee Golf Tournament, hosted by COIS, was held on June 4, 2024, at the Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, raising $200,000, enough for a two-year Fellowship.
Most people have never heard of OI, a rare genetic disorder sometimes called Brittle Bone Disease.
Individuals born with OI face many potential medical issues, including bone deformity, short stature, pulmonary problems, and multiple bone fractures throughout their lifetime.
So when Jacinta Whyte approached her 50th anniversary in the insurance industry, she celebrated this personal milestone by raising funds for a cause close to her heart — COIS and its inaugural Dr. Francis Glorieux Fellowship for Medical Research.
“Dr. Glorieux’s research has resulted in life-changing medical treatment for OI patients,” said Whyte as she thanked the over 120 golfers, sponsors and guests who participated in the event.
“His work is renowned in the global OI community and has been especially meaningful for us as our daughter Rachel was born with OI and was one of Dr. Glorieux’s earliest success stories.”
Although Dr. Glorieux was unable to attend due to a medical condition, he conveyed his gratitude and hope that the Fellowship will enable new researchers to continue his work, allowing more individuals with OI to lead healthier lives.
Kristin Hayes, COIS Ambassador and Board Member; RJ Chandrasekar, COIS Teen Ambassador; and Rachel Whyte were at the event.
Hayes expressed heartfelt thanks to Whyte, calling her the leader and driving force behind COIS, providing support, education, and hope to families affected by OI.
Both Kristin and Rachel spoke about the profound impact Dr. Glorieux’s treatment had on their lives, with Kristin attributing her ability to undergo spinal surgery at 13 to his care, and Rachel expressing immense gratitude for his kindness and compassion.
She went on to explain that while her condition presents as an ‘invisible disability’ she is nonetheless equally fragile.
Jacinta Whyte concluded the event with a brief presentation about OI, highlighting the treatment breakthroughs made possible by Dr. Glorieux and the Shriners Hospital team in Montreal.
“His work is the gold standard, and his commitment and dedication have changed the lives of the current generation,” she said. “A recipient of the Order of Canada, Dr. Glorieux is a true hero. It was only fitting that we launch a Fellowship in his name!”
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