Awarded on: 1996-05-23
John Maissan and Sheila Maissan, Whitehorse, Yukon Territory
Governor General's Caring Canadian Award
Sheila and John Maissan have, for 11 years, given almost full-time care to their son who is living with a severe disability. Their courage and commitment have been an inspiration to many. Assisted by other volunteers in the community, the team effort continues day after day, week after week, to ensure that their son receives constant support and attention. Mrs. Maissan is also President of the Evergreen Society, which is working to establish a permanent respite-care home for Whitehorse families in similar circumstances. The Maissans are active in the community and their home is always open to others who have no one with whom to share seasonal holidays.