The Near North Palliative Care Network plays a crucial role in the community as a Visiting Hospice, supporting individuals facing the end-of-life, including their families. Preston Tapscott, Events and Fundraising Coordinator says, “NNPCN is a vital community resource that wouldn’t be able to provide the services it does without the commitment from a small army of compassionate volunteers.”
Visiting Hospice volunteers do not administer primary healthcare services but rather help keep end-of-life clients comfortable at home while also supporting their caregivers. All NNPCN’s services are free of charge, and they include,
- Palliative and Respite Care: Caregiving can be an incredibly demanding task, both physically and emotionally. Respite support gives caregivers the opportunity to run errands, attend medical appointments or to simply take a break to rest and recharge. Volunteers can also help clients cook, clean, and keep them company.
- Bereavement and Grief Support: Grief can be a long and challenging journey. Bereavement support helps individuals navigate their grief. Tapscott says, “When palliative patients pass away their families often need support. The grief and bereavement program are free of charge and support can be offered in person, virtually, or over the phone.
- Friendly Visits: Social isolation is an issue for many individuals who are elderly or have a serious illness. Friendly visits are for clients who are not palliative but rather alone and lonely. In addition to help with daily tasks they may need an advocate to help them access needed services.
NNPCN is a charity that receives only a small amount of government funding. The lion’s share of its financial resources comes from community donations and fundraisers.
15th Annual Butterfly Release
The Butterfly Release is the cornerstone of NNPCN’s fundraising efforts. The funds raised during this event are critical for sustaining the organization’s services that are essential for improving the quality of life for palliative individuals and their families.
Often seen as symbols of transformation, hope, and renewal, for those who have lost loved ones, the act of releasing a butterfly can be a deeply moving and cathartic experience. NNPCN’s 15th annual Butterfly Release symbolizes the release of grief and celebration of life while giving the community an opportunity to support an organization that is built on caring and compassion. Tapscott says, “The Butterfly Release brings together families, friends, caregivers, and community members while also raising awareness about the various palliative related services provided by NNPCN.”
Butterfly Release Day
Those who want to release a butterfly in memory of a loved one, can pre-order their butterfly over the phone or complete a form online. The donation bracket is $35 for 1 butterfly, $100 for 3 butterflies and $30 each for 4 or more butterflies.
On Saturday, July 13th, hundreds of people will gather at the North Bay Waterfront near the Kiwanis Bandshell. At the time of the release, each participant will peel back their butterfly envelope and 750 Painted Lady butterflies will spread their wings and be released into the nearby gardens which are planted with flowers and milkweed.
Preston Tapscott says, “It’s a moving experience. Every year when I’m at the park looking at the families, I’m reminded why it matters so much. Often children are releasing butterflies in memory of their parents and grandparents. We have many clients experiencing complex grief stories, and the Butterfly Release is an opportunity for everyone, regardless of their story, to come together at the same time.” At the end of the ceremony, hundreds of butterflies are fluttering everywhere.
More than a fundraising event
The Near North Palliative Care Network’s Butterfly Release is a deeply symbolic and emotional occasion that brings the community together, raises funds to provide crucial services, and promote awareness about the importance of the care provided by a Visiting Hospice.
Tapscott says, “The Butterfly Release is a significant community tradition that offers healing to individuals while helping us keep our doors open to continue offering our vital services free of charge. The financial contributions improve the quality of life for individuals facing life-limiting illness by ensuring that compassionate care and support are available to all who need it in North Bay and surrounding region.”
NNPCN is extending an invitation to everyone in Northeast Ontario to attend this free event.
For more information visit them online here. Call (705) 497-9239, e-mail: [email protected] or visit them at NNPCN Office at St. Joseph’s Motherhouse, 2025 Main Street West, North Bay, ON.