The annual Butterfly Release Memorial, for families who have lost a child, will be held on Saturday June 15th at 2:00 P.M.
We would be delighted to have you join us on the grounds of the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO).
The event was begun by The Compassionate Friends of Ottawa in 2002 and has been adopted by CHEO as part of their outreach program. It is held in the beautiful gardens behind Ronald McDonald House, next to CHEO.
We invite you to join us for this brief but very moving memorial to children of any age who have left us too soon.
Please register on-line. Here is the link: https://www.cheo.on.ca/en/resources-and-support/butterfly-memorial.aspx
Once you have RSVP’d as attending the in-person event, you will receive an email with additional details.
What to expect on the day:
When: June 15th 2024 at 2:00 P.M. The ceremony will be about 1 hour in length.
Where: Outdoors in front of the Max Keeping building at CHEO, 401 Smyth Road
Parking: Parking Lot C – free for attendees
Attendees to the in-person ceremony will be greeted by volunteers and led to the seating area. Limited seating will be available, so we ask that those who are able to stand for the ceremony to please do so. You’re also welcome to bring personal chairs.
The Canterbury High School Choir will be providing music while attendees arrive and during the ceremony. When you arrive, you will be asked to check in at the visitor’s table to sign in and receive your butterfly. When checking in, you will be able to let us know who you are there to remember.
During the ceremony, the name of your loved one will be read aloud. Once all the names have been read, the presenter will ask you to open your butterfly box and release your butterfly along with other attendees at the same time. Please avoid opening your box until we prompt you.
To respect the privacy of all presenters and attendees, we ask that no photos or videos be taken during the ceremony. Washroom facilities are unfortunately not available at the Ronald McDonald House, volunteers will direct attendees to accessible washrooms in the main building.
You are welcome to remain and to talk with other families, staff and medical staff after the ceremony.
For more information, please contact Patient Experience by phone (613) 737-7600 ext. 3078 or email experience
The Compassionate Friends 