Ronald Albert Asselstine, Guelph, Ontario
Governor General's Caring Canadian Award
Children who experience a terminal or life-threatening disease have the opportunity to live out a special dream thanks to the vision and leadership of Ronald Asselstine. In 1984, he founded the Guelph Wish Fund for Children, and more than 250 children have had their wish granted, which has helped to alleviate some of the pain and sadness caused by their illness. Installation of special equipment, donations of personal computers, vacations to family amusement parks and the meeting of celebrities are examples of wishes granted. As a result of Mr. Asselstine's wise financial management, administrative costs are kept to a minimum, and virtually all funds collected directly benefit the children.