"I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples

Teresa’s desire to help others extended beyond palliative care and encompassed a vast array of initiatives that reached deep into her community and beyond. Recognizing the interconnectedness of human struggles, she was unable to turn away from anyone in need. Among her many good deeds she organized aid and collected goods for vulnerable populations including the homeless, refugees, and marginalized individuals. She also started several support groups in her efforts to help whoever and wherever she could. With her boundless empathy and tireless efforts, Teresa sowed seeds of hope and positive change wherever she went, leaving an indelible mark on the lives she touched.

Teresa’s desire to help others extended beyond palliative care and encompassed a vast array of initiatives that reached deep into her community and beyond. Recognizing the interconnectedness of human struggles, she was unable to turn away from anyone in need. Among her many good deeds she organized aid and collected goods for vulnerable populations including the homeless, refugees, and marginalized individuals. She also started several support groups in her efforts to help whoever and wherever she could. With her boundless empathy and tireless efforts, Teresa sowed seeds of hope and positive change wherever she went, leaving an indelible mark on the lives she touched.

Throughout her remarkable career, Teresa received widespread recognition and numerous prestigious awards. She was honoured with the “Personality of the Year” Award from Cité Nouvelles in 1999, the “West Islander of the Year” Award from The Chronicle in 2002 and 2012, the Montreal Council of Women’s “Woman of the Year Award” in 2005, the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, and the Loyola Hall of Merit in 2016. In November 2016, she was presented with the Meritorious Service Cross by then Governor General David Johnston, solidifying her legacy as a pioneer in the field of palliative care. In 2017, Teresa was honoured with the Canada 150 Community Service Award, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the West Island community.

Teresa passed away on August 19, 2019, following a battle with lymphoma. She is survived by her beloved husband Gavin Fernandes and their sons Jonathan and Nicholas. She leaves behind family members, many colleagues and close friends, as well as thousands of others whose lives were touched or made better by her kindness, compassion and generosity.

While Teresa’s legacy is most closely associated with end-of-life care and the Palliative Care Residence was renamed in her honour in 2020, her concern for others spanned a much broader spectrum. The TDC Foundation is dedicated to filling the void left by her passing by continuing her community work and carrying her spirit while addressing the needs of our most vulnerable citizens.