Our Story

Giulia's Diagnosis

Giulia Muzzi is the Miles for Smiles founder and leader and has been raising awareness about Multiple Sclerosis for over a decade. Giulia was diagnosed with Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) on August 11, 2014, and shortly after started Miles for Smiles with her family and friends to participate in the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada's MS Walk each year. The main goal of Miles for Smiles is to raise awareness and help everyone understand what MS is and how many people it affects, while providing fundraising and support for those who have been diagnosed with it. 

Over the years, Miles for Smiles has grown substantially, and Giulia now runs the Miles for Smiles Gala event each year, where guests can enjoy dinner, dancing, entertainment, and organized auctions and raffles to raise funds for MS research. All donations and funds raised by Miles for Smiles are donated directly to the BARLO MS clinic at St. Michael's Hospital.

MS is invisible and different for everyone diagnosed, which is why it’s known as the snowflake disease. Living with MS is an extremely challenging disease to live with, as the day to day stresses and struggles extend far beyond the physical symptoms that can manifest. Giulia has dealt with years of pain, tears, anxiety, migraines, doctors’ appointments, MRIs, tests, medication changes, and much more. Although these challenges are real and constant, Giulia's courage, empathy, and hard work has grown the Miles for Smiles community from a few dozen members to over 700 people who provide their support by attending our gala each year.

Since her journey began, Giulia has been blessed with so much love and support from family and friends and has since started her own family while she continues to grow Miles for Smiles and raise awareness. Though each day is still a battle, Giulia is committed to continuing her fight against Multiple Sclerosis for herself, her family, her friends, and everyone around the world still searching for a cure. We will never give up hope 🧡

Angelo's Story

Angelo Tersigni was more than a name to Miles for Smiles; he was its heart, its face, and its voice. His unwavering dedication to this cause continues to inspire us every day. Tragically, Ange fell ill with COVID-19 in August 2021. Despite being an otherwise healthy and strong man, he faced an arduous battle, enduring nearly 1.5 years in the hospital before passing away on December 11, 2022. His determination to return to his family was a testament to his strength, and his loss left an irreplaceable void in all our lives.

Ange’s impact was profound, not only on this organization but on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His infectious laugh, calming presence, and incredible ability to make everyone feel valued have left a lasting legacy. At every Miles for Smiles committee meeting, stories of Ange flow freely, keeping his memory alive. Whether it was his meticulous planning that ensured the gala nights ran seamlessly or his knack for calming nerves during the most stressful moments, Ange made everything and everyone better.

Ange’s joy and love for life extended to those around him. He celebrated the milestones of others as if they were his own and left a lasting impression on countless lives. When faced with the decision of whether to continue this fundraiser after his passing, the choice became clear: Ange’s passion and dedication had to be honored by carrying on the work he cared so deeply about. Every step forward is a tribute to him, as we wear our smiles proudly, just as he would have wanted.

Ange’s attention to detail was legendary. He’d create schedules down to the second, ensuring every gala event unfolded perfectly. And while he kept things running like clockwork, he always found time to lift spirits, share a joke, or simply make someone feel special. His dedication built Miles for Smiles into what it is today, and his spirit will forever be the foundation of our work. 

As these events continue, Ange’s presence is felt in every moment of joy and connection. When we dance, laugh, or even take a shot at the bar, we know Ange is smiling down on us, proud of what has been accomplished. This fundraiser, this movement, and this community would not exist without him. Ange’s legacy lives on in every smile, every laugh, and every step taken toward a brighter future.

He will be loved and remembered forever 🧡