A born leader, Gaëtane Pitre has it all - smarts, drive, and an unshakeable set of ethics. Rather then heading a company or running for office, she's using her strengths to help people with severe mental illness become as autonomous as possible.

Together with her husband, Raymond, Gaëtane operates a foster home for nine residents on the first floor of a triplex on de l'Eglise St. in Côte St-Paul. A cosy and welcoming place, it's neat as a pin and adorned with art from residents. Pervading the home is a feeling of gentle teamwork and mutual respect between her and the people in her care.

Gaëtane and Raymond have operated this foster home since 1985. They have a ten-year old daughter and two grown sons - one of whom lives in the top duplex with his own family. In the eyes of Gaëtane, Raymond, their children and their grandchildren, the residents are part of their extended family. On holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving, her family and the residents celebrate as one.

"Give Me One Good Reason"

Gaëtane won't tolerate stigma against people with mental illness,"Give me one good reason why they shouldn't be part of our community. Mental illness can strike anyone at any time. Rich or poor, we're all fragile."

Putting her beliefs into action, Gaëtane often reaches into her own wallet to take residents to activities they otherwise couldn't afford. She doesn't hesitate to use two taxis, plus her own car, to ensure every resident takes part.

She's determined to create opportunities for residents to see, and be seen, at movie theatres, bowling alleys, sugar shacks, and community corn roasts, "The more other citizens see people with mental illness in the community, the more they realize they're just like you and me."

Cruelty and Coffee Dregs

Sometimes Gaëtane sees stigma take the form of cruelty and greed, "One day, a resident left for a haircut and met a businessperson who said he'd give him a haircut AND a coffee for the price of a professional haircut. He took the resident's money, gave him a few clips, and served him the dregs from his coffeepot. Thankfully, we got his money back. That kind of stigma-viewing people with mental illness as "easy marks"-must never be tolerated. If you see problems like this, speak out. Together, let's create a more open-minded, socially-educated society."

Volunteers Essential

Gaëtane is eager to do more to improve her resident's quality of life, "I encourage them to go out into the community. Some of them require a person to accompany them. I am always in need of volunteers, since I can't do it all on my own."

Can't Stand Injustice

Gaëtane has always defended others in need. The eldest of six children, she stood up for all of her siblings - one of whom had mild intellectual challenges. She recalls, "When I entered elementary school, I also championed children who were bullied in the schoolyard or the classroom. I can't stand injustice."

At the age of 15, Gaëtane started working in a home for senior citizens. Her employer marvelled at her energy and leadership skills. She recalls asking to work with the most difficult patients, since she felt more inspired by their successes.

"I don't take the easy road," she explains. "The challenging road is more satisfying."

In a Word or Two.

What word best describes mental illness?
Vulnerability

What film has most influenced your thoughts on mental health?
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

How do you maintain a balanced lifestyle?
I spend time with my family and I read spiritual books

Who is doing outstanding work in destigmatizing mental illness?
Artists with mental illness who promote mental health and speak about their experiences

In 125 years, will the Douglas still be here?
Yes, for research and teaching

One word that describes the Douglas?
Innovative/creative