Josephine and Anita, at the 1996 Valentine’s Gala when Anita received the Gino Fortunato Hope Award.
On behalf of the Thalassemia Foundation of Canada, we wish to express our sincerest sympathies to the Aimola family, Anita’s friends and extended family. I and many friends in the thalassemia community were so saddened to learn of Anita’s passing on July 8, 2026.
Anita was a quiet woman who loved connecting with people. I had the privilege of knowing Anita since 1989 when we met at Sick Kids. We both had thalassemia, were Italian, were “out of towners” at Sick Kids, and were born in the same year; and we stayed friends since then. Over those years, I learned that Anita had a great sense of humour, was a generous friend and had great faith in God.
Anita gave so much to the thalassemia community. She exemplified perseverance while facing extraordinary health challenges and hope for many other patients because she was living proof that medical miracles could happen. TFC presented Anita with the Gino Fortunato Hope Award in 1996 which is presented to an individual who shows tremendous strength, courage and determination in the fight against thalassemia. Anita’s dedication to supporting patients was also recognized when she received the Alex Georgakopoulos Memorial Award in 2004 for Outstanding leadership, devotion, providing comfort, hope and friendship to thalassemia patients and their families.
Anita rallied a committed group of friends and family, also known as the Guelph chapter of TFC. Together, they raised 10’s of thousands of dollars for TFC. The Annual Dance in Guelph was a wonderful event and we were so grateful for her support for 24 years. For her continued dedication and service in promoting the work of the Thalassemia Foundation of Canada, Anita was recognized with the Chris Bennedsen President’s Award in 2013.
Anita was a friend and a leader who we will miss dearly. Rest in peace Anita. Thank you for all that you gave us. – Josephine Sirna, President