Jocelyn Niven's King Charles III Coronation Medal

Earlier this year, I was presented with the King Charles III Coronation Medal, alongside fellow Perley volunteer Jim Jamieson. I was nominated through my membership in the Upper Canada branch of the Black Watch, where I also serve as Secretary. That membership first connected me to Perley Health over two years ago, when several of our members were residents here. I had heard only wonderful things about the care they received, and I quickly became curious. Who could have foreseen what that curiosity would grow into?

I retired in 2014 after 42 years' service in the Canadian Forces, where I provided logistics for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Fellowship and service have always been central in my life (I began volunteering at 12) and joining the Perley Health volunteer team in 2023 has truly felt like finding another family.

Here, I try to be involved wherever I can: gardening in the summer, helping with the Breakfast Club in the winter, portering, Sunday Pub afternoons, and special events. My favourite activity by far is the Wednesday morning painting program, where I've had the joy of watching residents discover hidden talents—even one who started painting at 101.

Part of the criteria for the Coronation Medal is to “have made a significant contribution to a particular province, territory, region or community of Canada.” To me, this medal represents the small part I play in the lives of Perley residents, particularly the Veterans. This is my community, and nothing makes me happier than a day spent with them.
- Written by Jocelyn Niven, Perley Health Volunteer

But wait, there's more! Click here to read (and watch!) Jocely's People of Perley feature about her story and her time here at Perley Health (this page also contains links to article surrounding Jocelyn's other recent awards and honours): https://www.perleyhealth.ca/jocelyn-niven-2024

See photos below from the event including Jocelyn receiving her award, fellow Perley volunteer Jim Jamieson receiving his award, and photos with the other two honorees.

Jocelyn Niven proudly poses with her King Charles III Coronation Medal, an award bestowed upon those who have made a significant contribution to Canada or to a particular province, territory, region, or community of Canada; or have made an outstanding achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.