Congratulations to our 2010 winner Theresa Carriere!

Theresa leads a busy and fit life as Mom to four children, Fitness Coordinator at London Life Insurance Co. as well as personal training and teaching a variety of fitness classes to London Life employees.

At age 43, Theresa was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent treatment. From this experience Theresa created ONERUN, a fundraising initiative in which Theresa herself ran 100 kilometres from London, Ontario to Sarnia, Ontario. Theresa raised $175,000 toward breast cancer research (the most a first time, third party, has raised in funds in Canada for 2009/2010 to date) for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation and London's Pamela Greenway Kohlmeier Translational Breast Cancer Research Unit.

ONERUN was sponsored by over 30 business and brought together hundreds of people in the community A 'Virtual Run' was also created, which helped over 400 participants run, bike or swim their own 100 kilometres over six months and help them on their journey to a healthier lifestyle.

Theresa also commits her time as a coach to youth through the Ontario Basketball Association and the Rambler's Team in London, Ontario. She not only coaches children and young adults on how to play and the power of teamwork, she also influences the children off the court as well. Theresa, along with her husband Bill, provide life lessons on how fitness and relationships formed in a healthy environment can lead to a positive direction in life, particularly with young girls who are often faced with pressures of self esteem and self worth. Theresa's influence has contributed to confident, happy young women!

ONERUN began as Theresa's way to give back to the medical community and the friends and family that supported her when she needed it most. ONERUN grew to be about survivors, their families and communities and how fitness can bring hope and strength to those battling cancer. The outreach of this event spanned across our country and even outside. Theresa has inspired so many people and has taught everyone that one person can make a difference!

Theresa Carriere currently holds PTS certification.

A few words from Theresa Carriere...

A couple of weeks have passed since the 2010 canfitpro Toronto conference and standing on stage in front of the most amazing people I know - and still today, I cannot believe it! I feel extremely fortunate to be part of a profession where I have the opportunity to work with incredible individuals each and every day.

To be recognized as the 2010 canfitpro Fitness Professional of the Year is truly a great honour and one that I hold very dear to my heart.

I would like to thank canfitpro for allowing me to continue to learn and motivating me to reach for the stars. I would like to say a special thank you to Patch and Jane for allowing me to be part of the Goodlife family for over 23 years - what a great honour to be part of this outstanding family. To my wonderful friend, Mo - I will never forget what she has done for me professionally and more importantly, personally, in helping me believe in my abilities. To all my crazy, beautiful friends at Goodlife - Lore Wainwright, Clara Carvalho, Michelle Kerr, Pam Colby, Sarah Langford, and so many others who played a major role in the ONERUN campaign to raise awareness and funds for Breast Cancer. My deepest gratitude and love, always.

As a Fitness Professional, I spend a lot of energy and time doing what I love to do and I could not do it without the support of my family. To my husband Bill, and my beautiful children, thank you for your patience and your love.

Stay healthy, stay happy!!