Just a few months after launching, the Blanche River Health Foundation’s Grateful Hearts Program is already making a meaningful impact across both hospital sites.

To date, six Blanche River Health (BRH) team members have been recognized through heartfelt tribute donations — small gestures that carry enormous meaning.

Honourees include:

1. Chantal Roy, Registered Practical Nurse
2. Kym Baker, Personal Support Worker
3. Linda Duguay, Personal Support Worker
4. Sandy Macleod, Registered Practical Nurse
5. Gabrielle St-Cyr, Registered Practical Nurse
6. Dr. Kurki, Physician

Each recipient received a personalized certificate detailing the reason they were honoured and a Grateful Heart pin. Many were moved to tears and said they were deeply touched by the recognition — a powerful reminder that even a small act of appreciation can have a lasting effect.

“These tributes mean more than people realize,” said Samantha Saudino, BRH Vice President, Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Officer. “They lift spirits, strengthen team morale, and remind our staff that the care they provide truly matters. A donation of any size — even five dollars — can make a difference.”

More Than a Thank-You

Beyond celebrating compassionate care, the Grateful Hearts Program also supports critical needs at Blanche River Health’s Kirkland Lake and Englehart sites. Funds raised help purchase essential equipment and improve facilities, while the recognition itself contributes to a culture of positivity and pride among staff.

In rural and northern hospitals where recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals can be a challenge, programs like this play an important role in showing appreciation and encouraging staff to stay.

How It Works

1. Share your gratitude — Submit your compliment and the name of the Blanche River Health team member or volunteer.
2. Include a tribute gift — Any amount makes a difference, from $5 to $500.
3. Celebrate together — The honouree receives a certificate and pin, and your appreciation is shared across the organization.

“We’re seeing just how powerful gratitude can be,” said Cassandra James, BRHF Executive Director. “Every tribute tells a story of care and compassion — and together, they build a stronger, more connected hospital community.”

Join Us

If someone at Blanche River Health made a difference in your care or your family’s experience, consider honouring them through the Grateful Hearts Program. Tribute forms are available at both hospital sites central registry or online at grateful.brhfoundation.ca.

About Blanche River Health Foundation

The Blanche River Health Foundation raises funds for equipment and capital projects at the Blanche River Health hospitals in Englehart and Kirkland Lake. With limited government funding, the hospitals rely on people’s generosity to modernize facilities, improve patient care, and advance its mission to make healthcare work for you. Governed by a volunteer board of directors, the Foundation plays a vital role in ensuring essential improvements are made possible.

To continue supporting BRH, please consider donating to the BRH Foundation via:

• Online: Visit brhfoundation.ca
• Cheque: Blanche River Health Foundation, 145 Government Road East, Kirkland Lake, Ontario P2N 3P4
• Lottery Tickets: Purchase Split the Pot tickets at splitthepot.ca
• Your Estate Planner: Include the Foundation in your will through planned giving: legacy.brhfoundation.ca
• Grateful Hearts Program: Honour a caregiver or staff member who made a difference by donating in their name through grateful.brhfoundation.ca

Visit brhfoundation.ca to learn more or to donate.

Pictured:

Cassandra James and BRH team members celebrate Dr. Kurki, honoured through the Grateful Hearts Program.

Left to right: Cassandra James (BRHF), Ana Matias (RN), Summer Swanson (PSW), Tracy Davis (RN), Fi Denton (Ward Clerk), Dr. Kurki, Abigail Poupart (Ward Clerk), Nancy Chalifoux (RN) and Kim Macdonald (RPN).