• Awarded on: December 4, 2003

Eleanor and Tom Mather, Kanata, Ontario
Governor General's Caring Canadian Award

Eleanor and Tom Mather have devoted years to helping persons with mood disorders as well as their families. The Depression and Manic Depression Mutual Support Group they founded in 1986 now has 300 members in the National Capital Region. They have worked to eliminate social biases and misperceptions, and have advocated for more comprehensive mental health services. Mr. Mather helped the group incorporate and is still involved with committees to influence regional mental health reform. Mrs. Mather offers kindness and support to individuals and organizes many fundraisers and potluck suppers. Their own personal situation in facing these disorders has led them to dedicate their time and energy to support others living through the same experience.