Mr. Speaker, today I call on this House to join me in celebrating an outstanding Canadian from Brantford, a young Algonquin College basketball star and a good Samaritan, Holly Ryerse.
Last summer, late at night, Holly witnessed three young offenders robbing and senselessly attacking a helpless stranger right here in Ottawa. As three attackers brutally kicked and slammed the victim's head into the pavement, Holly intervened to protect the stranger without regard for her own safety, and then she called the police.
Holly suffered a concussion, emotional trauma and hand and back injuries, but she likely saved that stranger's life.
What is so remarkable about Holly is not just her heroism, but her selflessness. She is an outstanding citizen who did what she knew was right, never asking for recognition or anything else in return.
We thank Holly for standing up and doing what is right. Her courage, integrity and constant optimism are a blessing to us all. She is a true hero.