Dr. Paul David (1919-1999) was a renowned scientist and a committed humanist, and is remembered today as one of the premier figures of cardiology in Quebec. In 1954, in collaboration with the order of the Grey Nuns, he founded the Montreal Heart Institute. A pioneer in his field, he strongly believed that progress in medical technology should go hand in hand with an increased understanding of the psycho-social aspects of the disease. An active man throughout his life, Dr. David became a senator in 1985, barely three months after having retired, whilst continuing to be actively engaged with the Heart Institute and a variety of humanitarian activities.

In 1992, Dr. David was struck by a serious cerebro-vascular accident that left him aphasic and partially paralyzed. Despite his illness, he continued until his death to be interested in world events and to interact with those close to him.
To pay tribute to his ideals, his remarkable humanism and his passion for life, his family and friends decided, in the fall of the year 2000, to create a foundation in his memory.