Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure today to congratulate my constituent John Davidson who, on January 20, completed his cross-country journey to raise funds for genetic research. John began “Jesse's Journey—A Father's Tribute” in St. John's, Newfoundland in April of last year. He ended his inspirational journey in Victoria, B.C. after walking nearly 8,300 kilometres across Canada. He set out to raise $10 million to endow a fund that would generate a million dollars a year for research into genetic disease. So far he has been successful in raising over $2 million. But knowing his tenacity I am convinced that with the help of Canadians he will reach the goal.
I offer my congratulations to the nuclear and extended Davidson family, to volunteers and to contributors who worked so hard to make this journey a success. I also offer my thanks to all Canadians for welcoming John into their communities and into their hearts.
With all members of this House I salute John Davidson for his courageous and unending efforts. He has brought hope to future generations.