John Akerley was born in Halifax, NS. An avid swimmer, he loved the challenge of open-water swimming and scuba diving, as well as kayaking. Unfortunately in 2019 he was diagnosed with Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). Like many of us, we didn’t know much about this fast‑moving disease until it touched our family — and how quickly it can change life for patients and loved ones.
When John learned that MSA can only be confirmed by autopsy, he chose to donate his brain to research care of Dr. Tartaglia at UHN. He also took part in a UHN study led by Dr. Anthony Lang that’s looking for less‑invasive ways to distinguish Parkinson’s, MSA, and related conditions early on — a step that could speed diagnosis and help develop better treatments.
At 64 years of age, John died on May 25, 2026 after a seven-year fight with MSA. In John’s memory we created the Akerley Legacy Fund to further MSA research. We’re deeply grateful for any support that can turn John’s fight into progress.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Multiple System Atrophy Canada (see below)