The Maple Leaf Award is the most prestigious award presented by Ostomy Canada. It is given to an Ostomy Canada member or associate who has demonstrated outstanding volunteer service for the benefit of Ostomy Canada and its members. 

The Maple Leaf Award presented to Ann Ivol by Janet Paquet.

Ann, while not an ostomate herself, has actively supported the ostomy community for many years. Ann began her journey with the ostomy community when her husband, Roger, underwent surgery for the creation of his stoma. As a member of Ostomy Hamilton, she managed Spouses and Significant Others (SASO) programming and maintained the Ostomy Hamilton archives. She has collected and documented an extensive library of old ostomy products, which are often displayed at various events.

Ann has served on the Ostomy Canada Society (OCS) board of directors, including as President for several years. For many years, Ann’s garage was used as a storage facility for FOWC’s donations. She continues to participate in FOWC packs. Ann attended all Ostomy Canada conferences, as well as numerous US and international conferences. She has been a valuable resource for information, and she frequently provides assistance to others.

Ann, as a founding member of the Spouses and Significant Others (SASO) committee, was instrumental in establishing an extensive network of participants. In her role as a SASO visitor, she provided significant comfort and practical advice. Ann coordinated SASO programming at both the local and national levels. In 2008, she served on the conference planning committee and organized SASO programming and external social events for attendees.