Coup de foudre à l'italienne

The people of Tofino welcomed Sophie L'Homme with open arms. Since then, she's been making sure they sing. A musician and singer, she founded Tofino's very first choir.

At 45, Konan Blaise has a long track record. From activist to Paralympic champion, he now wants to become a doctor.

A proud and committed Franco-Ontarian, Jeff Lafortune worked in the mining industry for many years before turning to teaching. Today, he offers the people of Northern Ontario the chance to literally wear their pride, one T-shirt at a time.

Gisèle Matte waited patiently for her retirement to realize her great dream of becoming a professional make-up artist. A second career she began on the eve of her 60th birthday.

In Western Canada, Cristina Gareau found the impetus to switch from oncology to photography. She decided to make her nest at the foot of the Rockies.

Originally from Nova Scotia, Tim Doucette was born with serious vision problems. But that hasn't stopped him from setting up an observatory where he can share his passion for the stars with his community.

An Ottawa mom decided to take matters into her own hands after her daughter was born with health problems. Mélanie Briand got sick of trying to control everything.

Originally from France, Julie decided to come to Canada in 2010 to learn English. Nearly 13 years later, the woman who thought she'd have a career in the visual arts now teaches yoga.

A former goaltender for the Quebec Nordiques and Vancouver Canucks, Richard Brodeur made field hockey history with his goaltending skills.

Mother and son duo Sheila Henderson and Justin Comeau couldn't remain indifferent to climate change. They decided to do their part, one plot of land at a time.

A double lung transplant recipient, Tina Proulx has learned that nothing should be put off until tomorrow. A lesson she hopes to share with as many people as possible by raising awareness of the importance of organ donation.

Zakary-Georges Gagné was born in Quebec City, but it was in Kingston that she finally understood who she was. It was in this former capital that Zakary-Georges not only found her identity, but her new life mission.

Carol Ann Chénard has broken many glass ceilings. Thanks to her perseverance and rigor, she has carved out a place for herself as a soccer referee at major sporting events.

Involved in Nova Scotia's cultural scene, Daniel Robichaud's health deteriorated before he was diagnosed with AIDS.