Early Life A lifelong resident of Fall River, Nova Scotia, Dr. Carr grew up as the oldest of four sisters. Her parents were unable to finish high school due to family obligations but earned their GEDs while working and raising kids. Her mother, Sandra, went to secretarial school and became an administrative assistant for Defence Construction. Her father, Bill, founded and ran Vulcan Sheet Metal. Both parents encouraged their daughters to excel. “My parents are some of the smartest people that I’ve ever known,” Dr. Carr says. “They built a business, several houses with their own hands, and contributed a great deal to the community.” Dr. Carr attributes the early death of her gentle giant father with teaching her what is most important in life. “Surround yourself with people you love and really enjoy your time with them, be grateful for them,” she says. “My parents always believed in me and my sisters, they had the attitude that we should pursue our potential and figure out how to succeed. They didn’t write cheques but supported us in every way they could. We learned to be resilient and independent.” All four Carr sisters have names that begin with “H”— Heather, Holly, Heidi, and Hope. “My mother just liked the names Heather and Holly, and then she was kind of on a roll,” says Dr. Carr. “We joke Hope was their last chance for a boy, but my dad always said that wasn’t true. He told us his daughters were better and more accomplished than any sons would have been.” The sisters were nicknamed “the 4H Club” a moniker they are still known by in the community and beyond. “Not that we were ever involved with farming” says Dr. Carr. A newspaper clipping of Dr. Carr meeting Queen Elizabeth II. Dr. Heather Carr (top) with her sisters, Holly, Heidi and Hope. CDA President 2023–24 13 Issue 3 | 2023 |
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