I would like to nominate Detective Constable Stephanie Spencer from the Halton Regional Police Services, Domestic Violence Investigative Unit, as my Hero of the year. Detective Constable Stephanie Spencer has been a bright light in my life for the past three years. I met her in unfortunate circumstances; I was in crisis because of intimate partner violence, and Detective Constable Stephanie Spencer was assigned to my case. The invaluable experience that I had with Det. Const. Stephanie Spencer is the reason why I never gave into the feelings of fear and shame that come with being a survivor of domestic violence, sexual assault, emotional and psychological abuse.

Det. Const. Stephanie Spencer provided me with everything I needed to build the strength and courage to continue my battle for justice,for three years until the end of my court proceedings in the summer of 2021. She was always there to listen carefully, understand and be a shoulder to lean on when I had doubts. Det. Const. Stephanie Spencer held the hope for me when I could not see any hope in my life. She taught me that compassion and empathy can be paired with strength, persistence and tenacity. I will never forget how much care Det. Const. Stephanie Spencer showed me; she embodies the true values of policing and honours the validity of a human experience without any judgment whatsoever.

I am so grateful to her for all the support and guidance she has given me and all the effort she puts into her work every day. The community is extremely lucky to have Detective Constable Stephanie Spencer in their corner. Thank you, Detective Constable Stephanie Spencer, for being a true beacon of light and hope for those who are in need of safety and support.