Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of one of the most upbeat advocates I have ever known.
Petronella Peach, or Nel, as most knew her, immigrated from Holland. Nel was born during World War II and often spoke of her love of Canada and our role in liberating the Netherlands in 1945. Throughout her lifetime, Nel took on many challenges with a positive attitude and a strong voice for all those facing similar challenges.
Nel was a breast cancer survivor and, as she put it, a person living with diabetes. For almost 40 years, Nel met diabetes head on and became one of Canada's strongest advocates for diabetics. Whether talking to people on the streets or participating in international Team Diabetes marathons, Nel continuously worked to raise the awareness of diabetes. Nel was a volunteer extraordinaire and will be remembered for how much she cared for people and for her community.
Our thoughts go out to Nel's husband, Gordon, and to her family and friends. Nel will be missed.