Honouring Islanders
Mark Arendz, Heather Cutcliffe and Irene Jewell welcomed into Order of Prince Edward Island during ceremony at Government House
Heather Cutcliffe has spent her life making things better for other people.
As an occupational therapist, she has been a driving force in creating better services for patients and families, whether it be for stroke care or those living with disabilities.
Cutcliffe also blurred the boundaries between education and health by having a vision that all children in P.E.I. should have access to occupational therapy services and developing a program in Island schools. On Wednesday she was one of three individuals welcomed into the Order of Canada, along with Mark Arendz and Irene Jewell, during a special investiture ceremony at Government House. Besides receiving awards, they were presented with P.E.I. Medals of Merit.
“It’s very, very humbling. It’s amazing,” said Cutcliffe, when the official ceremony was over. Her motivation to make a difference was inspired by her parents, Bud and Kay Morrison of Hampton.
“I’m the eldest of a family of nine.
“My parents always saw work to be done so they did the work as volunteers – my Dad on the school board and Mum as a church organist and a teacher who worked with youth groups.” As a teenager she was inspired to make a difference.
“So, when I got to high school I joined every committee and team possible. I wasn’t always the best, but I always tried to do my best,” says Cutcliffe.
As an adult volunteer, she played a major role in bringing girls hockey to Crapaud and surrounding areas in the ’90s and was a participant in the development of the Actiplex and community wellness centre when the former Crapaud rink collapsed.
Today, Cutcliffe is thrilled with her new role as Order of Prince Edward Island recipient.
“I’m incredibly proud to be part of this huge group. It’s overwhelming.”