The Near North Palliative Care Network is gearing up for its 17th annual butterfly release this weekend. The heartfelt tradition brings together about 600 families, caregivers, health-care professionals, volunteers and community members in a shared celebration of remembrance. About 750 butterflies are released to honour loved ones who have passed. Butterflies represent transformation and the bonds shared with those we have loved and lost. “It’s to celebrate and it’s a way to remember your loved ones in a positive environment,” said Bill Hardman, the Near North Palliative Care Network’s executive director. “If we come together as a community when we release the butterflies, it’s just a nice way for remembrance, for celebration … The release of the butterflies is quite a majestic scene.” Proceeds from the event directly support the network’s programs and services, including visiting hospice and palliative care support, caregiver respite, grief and bereavement support, seniors’ companionship and social isolation support, and other education initiatives for its 5,000 clients. “We offer both individual and group sessions and they are always free of charge for everybody,” Hardman said. “Anybody who’s looking for support could contact us directly or online.” The butterflies are transported in specially designed packaging that maintains cool, dark conditions to keep them in a resting state until release time. When opened, natural warmth and sunlight gently awaken the butterflies, allowing them to take flight in a powerful symbolic moment of remembrance and hope. This year’s family-friendly event will feature live musical performances by Lynn Blunt, Rose-Erin Stokes, Silver Lining, and Josh Dimmel, along with a full day of community programming and engagement. Other activities include a community BBQ hosted by the Widdifield Lions Club, local community booths, a children’s colouring contest, auctions, raffle prizes and much more. The hospice serves the Nipissing and East Parry Sound Districts and provides care across West Nipissing, North Bay and area, Mattawa, Almaguin, Temagami, East Parry Sound and surrounding communities. The butterfly release takes place July 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kiwanis Bandshell at North Bay’s Lake Nipissing waterfront. Participants can reserve butterflies through a charitable donation online, by calling 705-497-9239, or by emailing events@nnpcn.com. Butterflies may also be sponsored in person on the day of the event.
