On February 26, leaders in children’s healthcare, corporate partners, and dedicated advocates convened in Ottawa for the Children’s Miracle Network Evening of Impact—a powerful testament to collaboration and progress in pediatric healthcare. Hosted by Canada’s Children’s Hospital Foundations (CCHF), the evening celebrated the collective efforts that are transforming children’s health across the country.
A Gathering of Changemakers
The Evening of Impact united CCHF and CMN national partners, healthcare professionals, hospital foundation CEOs, and CCHF leadership and board members. The night spotlighted the strides made in pediatric care through advocacy, research, technological innovation, and mental health initiatives—all fuelled by dedicated corporate and community support.
CCHF President & CEO Adam Starkman opened the evening with a message of gratitude and ambition, acknowledging the critical role national partners play in driving systemic change in children’s health. Lisa Hudson, Chair of the CCHF Board, reinforced this message, emphasizing the transformative power of collaboration and the important role it plays in children’s healthcare.
Among the distinguished attendees were:
- Dr. Steven Miller, Chief of Pediatric Medicine at BC Children’s Hospital & Sunny Hill Health Centre, who provided insights into groundbreaking pediatric research and medical advancements.
- Dr. Alexa Bagnell, Chief of Psychiatry at IWK Health in Nova Scotia, and Maureen Brennan, Clinical Director of IWK’s Mental Health and Addictions Program Network, underscored the urgent need to prioritize pediatric mental health.
- Dr. Kathleen Pajer, Senior Scientist, CHEO Research Institute, spoke about the role of precision child and youth mental healthcare.
Recognizing Our Partners
The event’s presenting sponsor, Empire Company Limited, was recognized for its unwavering commitment to child and youth mental health through its Family of Support program, which ensures more kids and families across Canada can access local mental health support. CCHF also celebrated the collective impact of its national partners, whose generosity fuels life-saving innovations in children’s hospitals nationwide.
Stories of Impact: Fatima’s Journey
One of the evening’s most poignant moments was patient ambassador Fatima’s first-hand account of her healthcare story. Diagnosed with sickle cell anemia, she has faced extraordinary health challenges. Thanks to the specialized care at CHEO—made possible by the support of CCHF partners—she has received transformative treatment that allows her to thrive. Her journey is a powerful testament to the tangible impact of corporate generosity, illustrating how partner support translates into life-changing advancements in pediatric care.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Pediatric Healthcare
Evening of Impact was not just a celebration—it was a call to action. Conversations throughout the evening focused on the future of pediatric healthcare, particularly the role of cutting-edge technology in shaping better outcomes for children. AI-driven diagnostics, precision medicine, and state-of-the-art training tools were highlighted as key areas of innovation, demonstrating how investments in research and technology are expanding the boundaries of what’s possible in pediatric medicine.
Next Steps & Continued Collaboration
As CCHF and its partners move forward, the focus remains on strengthening our collective voice and allowing for the mobilization of flexible funding for our member foundations. Through strategic collaboration and an unwavering commitment to progress, the goal remains clear: to revolutionize children’s health and provide every child with access to the best possible treatment.
Evening of Impact reinforced a vital truth—meaningful change happens when we work together. With the dedication of corporate partners, healthcare leaders, and generous donors, the future of children’s health in Canada has never been brighter.
