Celebrating Barry Heeson

Barry has been married for 50 years, is a father of two, grandfather of four, and great grandfather to one. He loves his community and is passionate about making it a better place. He is a volunteer with the Cambridge Council on Aging, a musician, and past Board Member for ‘Housing Cambridge’. He is driven by his experience, really wanting to make life better for others around him.

“Things change as you age in terms of volunteering. As opportunities change, your interests change as well. When you are dealing with people, there are so many great groups you can get involved in.”

What volunteer experiences are you most passionate about in your life?

“In the 1980’s, 193 individuals from various parts of Canada came together to let the citizens of Québec know that young people did not want to separate. I was very much involved in this movement and effort…

“I was apart of the Prostate Advocacy Group in British Columbia. The goal was preventative approaches to detection. I got involved after my own experience with prostate cancer.”

What aspects of serving your community and giving back are most important to you? What motivates you to help in these ways?

“Circumstances move you in different directions. Had I not had prostate cancer, I never would have been involved in these efforts. When you are dealing with people, there are so many great groups you can get involved in. You feel good when things progress, and you can help somebody.”

What is something most people in your life would not know about you?

“I am in a seniors’ choir, and I play bluegrass…

“I love pasta.”

What would you want younger/future generations to know about these efforts? What advice would you share with them?

“What I want them to know is that they are going to be me one of these days. The point is, whatever you feel about seniors, older adults, people with disabilities, think about it before you do or say something. Every day, you are getting older. Use kindness before you speak and act…

“Get an education. You have no idea where it will take you but at least you are starting with a basic understanding of hard work and standing on your own...

“Volunteer! Find something that you like to do and give back…”

What would you want people to know about the process of aging that you feel is currently misunderstood within society?

“If a young person sat with a senior, you could fill 10 books: there are so many stories and so much history…

“I am from an era where we only had a radio, and we did not know we were poor, and all I have is great memories from this time…”

“There is a lot of misinformation about older adults today. It is important to advocate for our group, and it is amazing when you can make things happen through connecting with others.”

What aspect of your life are you most proud of?

“The prostate cancer group was an important time in my life. Our theme song was ‘Stayin’ Alive’. This was huge to me. Helping others to know their PSA counts and being preventative was an incredible experience…

“Having my children and my fantastic life with my wife, we are the best of friends. We are fortunate and grateful to have each other.”

What does age mean to you?

“Whatever age you are at, enjoy it because it’s going to change…”

“Respect people of all ages. We all will be all these ages sooner or later. Be nice to people.”

"The Interview Project" Featuring Barry Heeson