Defenceman P.K. Subban said he is “honoured” to receive the Meritorious Service Decoration (civil division) from Gov. Gen. David Johnston Wednesday.
READ MORE: P.K. Subban writes emotional, heartfelt letter to patients at Montreal Children’s Hospital
The award acknowledges his charity and pledge to raise $10 million over seven years through the P.K.’s Helping Hand program to help families struggling financially due to a child’s illness.
Twelve others will receive the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers in a ceremony in the P.K. Subban Atrium at the Montreal Children’s Hospital.
The hospital honoured the Toronto native with the 486 square metre, three-storey public space located at the heart of its new facilities, to mark what it called “the biggest philanthropic commitment by a sports figure in Canadian history.”
READ MORE: P.K. Subban traded to Nashville Predators for Shea Weber
“P.K. is a person of character, who strives for success, always working at new ways to stay on top of his game and he understands the value of teamwork,” said Martine Alfonso, associate executive director of the hospital, when the announcement was made.
“He’s an outstanding role model for our patients.”
The Governor General’s Awards is intended to “recognize the extraordinary people who make Canada proud.”
READ MORE: Vaudreuil students ‘running’ to Nashville to see P.K. Subban
Their acts are often innovative, set an example or model for others to follow, or respond to a particular challenge faced by a community.
Recipients inspire others through their motivation to find solutions to specific and pressing needs or provide an important service to their community or country.”
WATCH BELOW: Trading Subban to Nashville
Subban, a fan favourite, was traded to Nashville last June amid much controversy.
READ MORE: P.K. Subban Foundation raises $1.4M in first year of Montreal Children’s Hospital pledge
Thursday, he will play his first game in Montreal since the move.
— With files from The Canadian Press.
rachel.lau@globalnews.ca
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