OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Jan 24, 2014) -

The Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC) is pleased to award their second annual Award of Excellence in Advocacy to Russell Williams, President of Canada's Research-Based Pharmaceutical Companies (Rx&D). Russell has worked tirelessly as an advocate for hospice palliative care, from his involvement in establishing the West Island Palliative Care Residence to his advocacy efforts as a member of the Champions Council of the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA).

"Russell has contributed a great deal to the national and provincial discussions around palliative care, and for that we are truly grateful. We are very proud to have such a champion advocating for our cause," stated Sharon Baxter, secretariat of the QELCCC and Executive Director of the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association.

Prior to joining Rx&D, Mr. Williams had a successful career in provincial politics and community service. For fifteen years, he represented the Montreal riding of Nelligan in the National Assembly of Quebec. He is well known for his dedication and perseverance as an advocate for individual rights and government services focused on the needs of its citizens. He continues active volunteer involvement in palliative care.

"I am so honoured to have been considered for this award. The QELCCC is an impressive group and I am proud to have worked closely with both them and the Parliamentary Committee on Palliative and Compassionate Care to advance this issue at the national level. Together I believe we can improve access to palliative care while encouraging Canadians to plan for the end of life," stated Mr. Williams.

The QELCCC Award of Excellence in Advocacy was established in 2012 to recognize exemplary efforts by an individual in advocating for improved hospice palliative care in Canada. To be eligible for this award, recipients must have, at the national level, contributed to and had an impact upon the enhancement of the quality of life for individuals and their loved ones who are facing a life threatening illness and bereavement. The awards committee also searches for individuals who make both personal and/or professional commitments to hospice palliative care, contribute as a volunteer and support for volunteer initiatives in service of advancing hospice palliative care in Canada, and demonstrate leadership in areas of hospice palliative care program or policy development, advocacy.

About the Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada

The mandate of the QELCCC is to act as an advocate for quality end-of-life care for all Canadians. The QELCCC is a network of 34 national organizations. Member organizations represent all Canadians including: professional and family caregivers; volunteers; health-care professionals; disease groups; those with terminal illnesses, their families and others with an interest in quality end-of-life care.