At the Baie-Sainte-Anne Regional School, the 34th Tree of Hope campaign ended. Together, Mr. Réjean Després and his niece, Ms. Isabelle Thériault, proud ambassadors for the cause, announced an amount of $1,033,809 during the special wrap-up program presented by Radio-Canada Acadie.
“It brings me such joy to see all who answered our call and came to celebrate the campaign’s successes,” exclaims Nadine Martin, Executive Director of the CHU Dumont Foundation! “Following the great success of the first community brunch, we hope to set a new tradition, so that all regions of the province may participate in the wrap-up celebrations,” she adds.
On top of the announcement of the total amount raised by the campaign, another great news was announced during the brunch. The Baie-Sainte-Anne Regional School and the community came together and raised an impressive $14,979. Over the years, the small community raised over $100,000 for the cause.
“What a wonderful campaign this was,” declare both ambassadors! “We are happy we played a part in giving hope to all who are battling or who will be battling, and their loved ones,” explains Mr. Després.
“Today we truly feel that we have made a difference in people’s lives, and it warms my heart! I want everyone who must face this illness to know that they are not alone, and that they can count on our support,” his niece, Ms. Thériault, adds.
The funds raised through the campaign each year are used to improve the care provided at the Dr. Léon-Richard Oncology Centre and in the various units and departments of the Dumont University Hospital Centre that provide services along the continuum of care for cancer patients. This year, a portion of the funds will go towards the purchase of a surgical robot.
“This new piece of equipment will not only have a positive impact on the patients, but also on the practices of the healthcare professionals, ” explains Sébastien Dupuis, Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. “We are proud to contribute to driving surgery forward. ”
The funds will also be used to continue cancer research efforts and to improve the comfort of patients who stay free-of-charge at the Mgr. Henri-Cormier Lodge in Moncton.
Since its beginning in 1989, the Tree of Hope has raised more than 33 million dollars to provide increased comfort and care for cancer patients.
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For information or interviews :
Félix Arseneau
Communications and Marketing Manager
T : 506.862.7989/506.381.9350
Felix.arseneau@fondationdumont.ca