• Awarded on: April 20, 1999

Maureen Tresnak, North Bay, Ont.
Governor General's Caring Canadian Award

After her young son was diagnosed with leukemia, Maureen Tresnak made him a quilt that he took everywhere during his treatment. Seeing what a comfort the quilt was for him, she started Project Smile in 1995. With the help of other volunteer quilters she enlisted, Project Smile provides children who are fighting any form of cancer with the warmth, comfort and feeling of security that come with a personalized quilt. The project also promotes public awareness of children diagnosed with cancer and supports their families. With financial and product donations from businesses, organizations and individuals, Mrs. Tresnak has been able to provide more than 400 children with quilts.