Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the memory of an exceptional woman, a community advocate, a dedicated volunteer and an outstanding role model for all Canadians: Ms. Susan Wells. A tireless social worker for Collingwood and an ally for those less fortunate, Susan was tragically killed while on her fourth aid mission to Tanzania where she was working to improve the lives of children and youth in extreme poverty.
Susan was a kind and generous spirit. Her commitment to others never wavered. She put others' needs ahead of her own, fighting for mental health resources and education here at home and abroad. Raised in a loving family with a tradition of family service and community service, Susan worked to strengthen other families. She exemplified the best of Canadian values: compassion, empathy and a sense of responsibility.
It was Susan's quiet leadership that brought educational opportunities, health care and sustainable income to third world nations. In Ecuador, she assisted in medical aid. In Tanzania, she created scholarship funds. She helped build orphanages and she worked toward a drop-in centre for street children.
Beyond these admirable traits, Susan was a treasured daughter, sister, aunt and friend to many. Let us formally recognize Susan and let her life serve as an inspiration to other Canadians who work courageously to make their communities and our world a better place.