Bathurst, November 28, 2024 – Last night, the northern region was bathed in a magical, emotion-filled glow as more than 200 twinkling fir trees sprang to life. Their sparkling lights danced in front of the nine health care facilities participating in the Northern Star campaign, in partnership with UNI Financial Cooperation.
This memorable event, marked by strong community participation, underlined the importance of solidarity and support for our health care services.
An evening steeped in symbolism
The ceremony began with inspiring speeches reminding us of the crucial role generosity plays in funding equipment and initiatives to improve care for our patients. Then came the long-awaited official tree-lighting ceremony, which captured the attention and hearts of everyone present. Each tree, dedicated to a loved one or a cause, lit up the evening with a symbolic glow.
A poignant moment of recollection followed, as the community took time to honour the dedications made as part of this campaign. It was an opportunity to reflect on the considerable and lasting impact of each donation.
To cap off this festive evening, participants shared a convivial moment over snacks and hot chocolate, in an atmosphere filled with camaraderie and human warmth.
A call for generosity
While the trees will continue to shine during the holiday season, the participating foundations would like to remind everyone that the Northern Star campaign is still running. Every donation, large or small, helps transform health care in our region.
“Every light that shines on our trees is a reminder of the power of generosity and collective commitment. We invite everyone who can to participate, because together we are making a lasting difference for our families, friends and neighbours,” said Dr. Marilyne Bossé, Medical Director for Zone 6.
“At UNI, we’re honoured to see our logo shining atop the Northern Star fir trees. It symbolizes our deep commitment to the well-being of our community. This collaboration with the nine northern hospital foundations is a source of pride, as it demonstrates the importance of working together to offer better health services to our loved ones,” said Camille H. Thériault, President
and CEO of UNI.
How to give
To contribute to the Northern Star campaign and shine a light in honour of a loved one, visit our website at https://www.athomefirst.ca/donation/ or visit a UNI point of service.
The nine participating foundations are as follows:
- Chaleur Regional Hospital Foundation (Bathurst)
- Fondation Hôpital l’Enfant-Jésus (Caraquet)
- Foundation of the Friends of the Grand Falls General Hospital (Grand Falls)
- Edmundston Regional Hospital Foundation (Edmundston)
- Fondation de l’Hôpital et Centre de santé communautaire de Lamèque (Lamèque)
- Friends of Healthcare Foundation (Campbellton)
- Fondation Dr Romaric Boulay (Saint-Quentin)
- Les Ami.e.s de l’Hôpital Stella-Maris-de-Kent foundation (Sainte-Anne-de-Kent)
- Fondation Les Amis de l’Hôpital de Tracadie Inc. (Tracadie)
For more information:
Suzanne LaPlante
Development Agent and responsible for communications
506-544-2370
