Yuletide Gala Auction Raises Over $450,000 for Critical Care Priorities at QEH
NOVEMBER 23, 2025
Charlottetown, PE – The Queen Elizabeth Hospital Foundation’s annual Yuletide Gala Auction illuminated the Delta Hotels by Marriott Prince Edward on Saturday evening, raising $451,909 in support of critical and clinical priorities across three vital areas of the hospital: the Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit, and Mental Health & Addictions Care. This year’s event welcomed a record-breaking crowd of more than 400 guests, making it the largest Yuletide Gala Auction in Foundation history.
Guests enjoyed an exciting lineup of unique auction items, including exclusive getaways, one-of-a-kind experiences, and locally crafted treasures, all contributing to an atmosphere of spirited bidding and community generosity.
A highlight of the evening was the story shared by Chad McCormack, who spoke about the lifesaving and life-changing care he received at the QEH following a sudden spinal injury. Chad also recognized his healthcare heroes who supported him through recovery, inviting them to stand as the room applauded their extraordinary commitment.
Following Chad’s story, an impromptu appeal was introduced to help fund urgently needed wheelchairs that will directly support patient care at the QEH. The room responded with extraordinary generosity, fully funding 20 wheelchairs.
Presenting Sponsor Cavendish Farms delighted guests with a surprise announcement that they will continue in this lead role for the next three years, reaffirming their longstanding commitment to advancing healthcare on Prince Edward Island.
“The success of tonight’s event reflects the incredible generosity of our Island community,” said John Scales, Chair of the QEH Foundation Board of Directors. “These contributions will enable the hospital to invest in essential equipment and advance clinical priorities that will benefit Islanders and QEH healthcare teams now and into the future.”
The QEH Foundation extends heartfelt gratitude to the donors, sponsors, volunteers, and attendees who made the 2025 Yuletide Gala Auction a remarkable evening. Together, we are building a stronger, healthier future for all Islanders.
John Scales, Chair of the QEH Foundation Board of Directors; Mark Cormier, Vice President of Community Relations, Cavendish Farms; grateful patient Chad McCormack; and Tracey Comeau, CEO of the QEH Foundation, at the 2025 Yuletide Gala Auction in Charlottetown.
Media Contact:
Erin MacDonald, Director of Communications
QEH Foundation
erinmacdonald@ihis.org
902-894-2956
QEH Foundation Launches Friends for Life Campaign to Support QEH Priority Needs
OCTOBER 7, 2025
Charlottetown, PE — The Queen Elizabeth Hospital Foundation has officially launched its annual Friends for Life campaign, supporting fundraising efforts for the $8.2 million in identified medical equipment and clinical priorities at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
This year’s campaign focuses on three high-impact areas of care: the Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit, and Mental Health & Addictions Care. These are the areas of service Islanders depend on in their most critical and vulnerable moments — and where access to life-saving equipment can make all the difference.
“This is the largest costing of priorities that the Foundation has faced in one year,” said John Scales, QEH Foundation Board Chair. “Islanders have always shown incredible generosity, and time and again our community steps up for healthcare. With the vast majority of medical equipment and clinical priorities funded through donations, donor support plays a critical role in ensuring the QEH is equipped to deliver safe, timely, and compassionate care.”
The Friends for Life campaign is about more than funding equipment — it’s about ensuring that when Islanders need care most, the QEH is ready. And this year, there’s a new way to get involved.
To amplify the spirit of community and care, the QEH Foundation is launching Kitchen Party for Care, a virtual celebration inviting Islanders to dance, sing, and play music in support of Island healthcare. Whether it’s a kitchen jig, a fiddle tune, or a family singalong, Islanders are encouraged to share their talents and joy online.
For every video uploaded to Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #KitchenPartyForCare and tagging the QEH Foundation, a local business will donate $100 towards the $8.2 million goal. Leading the charge is Markan Group of Companies, pledging up to $10,000 to kick off the party.
“This is more than a fundraiser — it’s a celebration of what makes our Island community so special,” said Erin MacDonald, QEH Foundation Director of Communications. “We rely on the Queen Elizabeth Hospital for life changing moments, and everyone can play a part. All ages can participate in this fun and meaningful way to raise awareness, give back, and support the care and care providers at QEH.”
To learn more about the Friends for Life annual campaign or how to take part in the Kitchen Party for Care celebration, visit https://qehfoundation.pe.ca/friends-for-life/. With the recent Canada Post strike potentially impacting mail delivery and charitable tax receipting, the QEH Foundation encourages Islanders to make their donations online, by phone, or in person. Contributions can be made securely at qehfoundation.pe.ca, by calling 902-894-2425, or by visiting the QEH Foundation office.
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Media Contact:
Erin MacDonald
QEH Foundation
Director, Communications
Email: erinmacdonald@ihis.org
Phone: 902-894-2956
QEH Foundation Celebrates Future Support at Annual Legacy Society Tea
SEPTEMBER 29, 2025
New Glasgow, P.E.I. – The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) Foundation welcomed members of its Legacy Society on September 18 at the annual Legacy Society Tea, held at the Prince Edward Island Preserve Company.
The event, attended by Their Honours, the Honourable Lieutenant Governor Dr. Wassim Salamoun and Her Honour Marie Salamoun-Dunne, celebrated Islanders who have chosen to leave a lasting mark on healthcare by including the QEH Foundation in their estate plans.
Guests enjoyed a fireside chat with Dr. Derek Chaudhary, nephrologist and medical advisor for the PEI Renal Program, who highlighted the impact of donor support on advancements in dialysis treatment and patient care.
In 2024-25, the QEH Foundation proudly welcomed 12 new Legacy Society members. During the event, exclusive Legacy Society lapel pins were presented by His Honour to new members in attendance, signifying their generous future contributions to the Foundation.
“Legacy Society members are a remarkable group of donors who have made a very personal decision to support the QEH through a planned gift,” said Tracey Comeau, CEO of the QEH Foundation. “Thanks to their generosity, Islanders will continue to benefit from exceptional healthcare now and into the future.”
The QEH Foundation extends heartfelt gratitude to all Legacy Society members, past and present, for their vision and generosity. Their commitment ensures the Foundation can continue supporting advancements in healthcare for future generations of Islanders.
To learn more about leaving a legacy gift, please contact the QEH Foundation at 902-894-2425 or visit https://qehfoundation.pe.ca/ways-to-give/plan-a-legacy/.
Media Contact:
Erin MacDonald
Director, Communications
QEH Foundation
erinmacdonald@ihis.org
2025 Annual General Meeting
SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
The Queen Elizabeth Hospital Inc.’s Annual General Meeting will take place on Tuesday, September 23 at 4pm. The meeting will take place in Classroom A/B on the 3rd floor of the QEH.
Members* may register to attend by contacting our office at 902-894-2425 or info@qehfoundation.pe.ca
*Donors in our 2024-25 fiscal year.
Islanders Raise Over $62,000 for Breast Health Care in Ultimate Shed Giveaway
JULY 8, 2025
Charlottetown, PE – The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) Foundation is proud to announce the successful completion of the 2025 Ultimate Shed Giveaway, raising an incredible $62,975 in support of breast health care at the QEH. This year’s grand prize, Alder Grove—a professionally designed, fully furnished luxury shed valued at over $40,000—was awarded to Rebecca Wellner of Charlottetown during a live draw held at Kent Charlottetown on July 4.
Now in its fifth year, the Ultimate Shed Giveaway is a community-driven initiative led by Jennie Arsenault of Arsenault Bros. Construction and Sara Dykerman of Plank & Pine Interior Design. This year, they were joined by Kent Building Supplies, a new sponsor who helped bring the 2025 campaign to life.
“We’re incredibly thankful to our partners, sponsors, and everyone who supported this campaign,” said Tracey Comeau, CEO of the QEH Foundation. “Each ticket purchased helps fund essential equipment our hospital needs to provide care close to home. We are proud of this unique campaign from creative design, building, through to delivery to the winner!”
Funds raised through the campaign will go toward the purchase of vital medical equipment that supports breast health care at the QEH. Last year’s proceeds helped fund a new tissue processor for the hospital’s pathology lab, which has already improved diagnostic capacity and turnaround times.
The QEH Foundation extends heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to this year’s success—ticket buyers, volunteers, sponsors, and the dedicated team behind Alder Grove.
Media Contact:
Erin MacDonald
Director, Communications
QEH Foundation
erinmacdonald@ihis.org
A Great Day for a Great Cause: $71,744 Raised at 22nd Annual MacLauchlan Memorial Golf Tournament
JUNE 17, 2025
Charlottetown, PE – June 12, 2025 – The 22nd annual Harry MacLauchlan ‘Great Day’ Fore Health Memorial Golf Tournament, presented by Fair Isle Ford, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Charlottetown Royalty, was held on June 11th at Belvedere Golf Club, raising an impressive $71,744 to support medical equipment needs at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. This year’s proceeds will help purchase hemodialysis equipment for the Provincial Renal Program, a vital service for Islanders living with kidney disease. With this year’s total, the tournament has now raised nearly $1.2 million since its inception in 2003, an extraordinary legacy of community-driven care.
Under sunny skies, longtime participants and new teams alike took to the course with enthusiasm and purpose, united in their commitment to improving Island healthcare. Coach Atlantic claimed top honours at this year’s tournament, rounding out a day marked by friendship, fun, and heartfelt giving.
“There’s something incredibly meaningful about the way this tournament continues to bring people together,” said Mike Hennessey, Tournament Co-Chair. “We’re proud to support our hospital and to contribute to equipment needs that help QEH healthcare teams deliver their best. The success of this event belongs to every golfer, sponsor, and volunteer who made it happen.”
The QEH Foundation also extended appreciation to the Rotary Club of Charlottetown Royalty for their outstanding partnership.
“We are so grateful to the Rotary Club for their long-standing leadership and support,” said John Scales, QEH Foundation Board Chair. “Their commitment continues to drive the success of this tournament and make a real difference in our hospital community.”
For over two decades, this beloved event has helped fund priority medical equipment across departments at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, ensuring healthcare teams have the tools they need to care for Islanders from tip to tip. Many teams have been part of the tournament since the very beginning, a testament to the enduring power of Harry’s legacy and the Island’s generous spirit.
Event co-chairs Mike Hennessey and Jamie Currie, along with the Rotary planning committee, extended heartfelt thanks to all who made the day possible. Special appreciation goes to Presenting Sponsor Fair Isle Ford; Corporate Sponsors Canadian Tire, Island Petroleum, and the Province of PEI; and Lifeline Sponsors A&S Scrap Metals, IG Wealth Management, Island Coastal Services, Members Health, RBC Insurance, and RBC Dominion Securities, whose continued support fuels the tournament’s success year after year.
To learn more or to support the QEH Foundation, visit www.qehfoundation.pe.ca.
Media Contact:
Erin MacDonald
Director, Communications
QEH Foundation
erinmacdonald@ihis.org
QEH Foundation Launches 2025 Ultimate Shed Giveaway Featuring Alder Grove
JUNE 11, 2025
The Ultimate Shed Giveaway is a fundraising project between Jennie Arsenault, Arsenault Bros. Construction Ltd; Sara Dykerman, Plank & Pine Interior Design, and our newest sponsor Kent Building Supplies, represented by Retail Operations Manager, Jim Power.
CHARLOTTETOWN, PE – The Ultimate Shed Giveaway is back with Alder Grove — a one-of-a-kind, professionally designed backyard luxury shed valued at more than $40,000. Tickets are on sale now at qehfoundation.pe.ca/shed, the QEH Foundation office, and all five Kent locations across Prince Edward Island.
Built with love by PEI’s finest in construction and design, Alder Grove is more than just an attractive shed. It’s insulated, wired, and fully furnished—and includes up to $1,000 in electrical hook-up and free delivery to any accessible location on PEI. Whether it becomes your peaceful escape, home office, or cozy guest retreat, it’s the perfect addition to your backyard.
This year the campaign includes an Early Bird Prize: a voucher for two WestJet tickets to any destination they serve. To be eligible, tickets must be purchased online by June 15. The Early Bird draw will take place on June 16.
Islanders can also experience Alder Grove in person during an Open House at Kent Charlottetown on Saturday, June 21.
Now in its fifth year, the Ultimate Shed Giveaway is a community-driven initiative led by Jennie Arsenault of Arsenault Bros. Construction and Sara Dykerman of Plank & Pine Interior Design, who have supported the campaign since its inception. This year, they are joined by Randy Mayne of Kent Building Supplies, a new sponsor helping bring the project to life in 2025.
To date, the campaign has raised $247,905 for the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, supporting breast health through vital equipment and technology purchases. Last year’s proceeds helped fund atissue processor for the hospital’s pathology lab.
“The new tissue processor has significantly improved how we process tissue samples,” says Dr. Heidi Paulin, Department Head at the QEH Provincial Lab. “It increases our capacity by 25% and allows multiple processing programs to run at once. That means faster results and better-quality histopathology leading to more accurate diagnoses, and better care for our patients.”
This year’s funds will once again go toward equipment that supports breast health care at the QEH.
“This unique four-week campaign is a powerful example of what can happen when community, creativity, and compassion come together,” says Tracey Comeau, CEO of the QEH Foundation. “Every ticket purchased helps improve care for Islanders and supports the exceptional work of the medical teams at the QEH.
Tickets are $25 each or 5 for $100 and are available online until July 2, and in person until 10:00 AM on July 4 at Kent locations or the QEH Foundation office. The grand prize draw will be held at Kent Charlottetown on Friday, July 4 at 12:00 PM and broadcast live on the QEH Foundation Facebook page.
To purchase tickets, view photos, or learn more, visit qehfoundation.pe.ca/shed
Islanders Raise $970,470 for Urgent Equipment at QEH During Big Day of Giving
MAY 22, 2025
CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — Islanders came together in an incredible show of support for healthcare during the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) Foundation’s Big Day of Giving on May 21, raising an outstanding $970,470 for urgently needed medical equipment and technology.
Over 24 hours, donations poured in online, by phone, and in person, helping the QEH Foundation address critical priorities such as MRI technology, an ortho c-arm for orthopedic procedures, a portable x-ray unit for bedside imaging, ultrasound machines, and bililux lights for newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit.
“This total is a reflection of the deep generosity and compassion of Islanders,” says John Scales, Chair of the QEH Foundation Board. “Every dollar raised is helping equip healthcare teams with the tools they need to care for all of us — our families, friends, and neighbours.”
From 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Ocean 100 and Hot 105.5 broadcast live from the QEH lobby, sharing moving stories of care and resilience. Listeners heard firsthand from patients like Penny Walsh-McGuire, Chad McCormack, and parents Alex & Felicia Pratt — each one highlighting the life-changing impact of care at the QEH.
“A special gift of $88,000, combined with phone calls well into the evening and overnight on-line giving, was certainly beyond our expectations,” said Tracey Comeau, CEO, QEH Foundation. “As a result, the Foundation is able to commit to funding additional specialized equipment for the Provincial Stroke Unit, Provincial Mental Health Emergency Department, and PEI Cancer Treatment Centre.”
The QEH Foundation thanks all donors, volunteers, staff, and media partners for making this year’s Big Day of Giving such a success. Donations can still be made by visiting www.QEHBigDay.ca or calling 902-894-2425.
QEH Big Day of Giving returns May 21 to Support Urgent Equipment Needs
MAY 16, 2025
CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — On Wednesday, May 21, the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) Foundation invites Islanders to take part in the Big Day of Giving — a 24-hour celebration and fundraising event to support urgently needed medical equipment at the QEH.
This year, the Big Day of Giving aims to raise over $500,000 for urgent equipment needs, including support for MRI technology upgrades. Funding priorities include a software upgrade for the hospital’s MRI machine to help reduce wait times and improve diagnosis, an Ortho C-Arm for orthopedic procedures, portable X-ray units for bedside imaging, and BiliLux lights for newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit.
“Your donation helps equip the hospital with the tools healthcare teams need to care for the people you love — our family, your neighbours, your friends,” says John Scales, chair of the QEH Foundation board. “Every dollar stays right here on the Island, strengthening care close to home for all of us.”
From 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Ocean 100 and Hot 105.5 will broadcast live from the QEH lobby, sharing inspiring stories from patients, staff and donors. Islanders can tune in, donate online or by phone, and follow along on social media as donations roll in from across the province.
Throughout the day, Islanders will hear powerful stories from patients whose lives were transformed through care at the QEH:
- You’ll meet Penny Walsh-McGuire — a breast cancer survivor and proud mom to her son, Rowan. Penny says her most difficult days came not during treatment, but after. With help from the QEH team, she found strength she didn’t know she had.
- You’ll hear about Everett Pratt, whose life began with a medical emergency. A split-second diagnosis and quick action from the NICU team helped him recover from a brain injury. Thanks to donors, the QEH now has a CritiCool device to protect future newborns in crisis.
- There’s Chad McCormack, a roofer who was left paralyzed after a fall. Thanks to the exceptional care he received at the QEH, he’s back doing the things he loves, including working on cars and training for the Paralympics in archery.
- And you’ll meet Lucas Arsenault, a professional kiteboarder who was attacked by a shark while vacationing in the Turks and Caicos. Less than a year later, he was back on the water with help from QEH’s physical medicine and rehabilitation team, who built him a custom prosthetic made for the waves.
“These stories are powerful reminders of what’s possible when the QEH has the generosity of community behind them,” says Scales. “With your help, we can turn even more moments of crisis into stories of recovery.”
To learn more or donate to the QEH Big Day of Giving, visit www.QEHBigDay.ca, call toll-free 1-833-335-0545, visit the QEH Foundation office, or mail your cheque to: QEH Foundation, P.O. Box 6600, Charlottetown, P.E.I., C1A 8T5.
Media Contact:
Erin MacDonald
Director, Communications
QEH Foundation
erinmacdonald@ihis.org
902-894-2956
QEH Foundation Announces New MRI Technology Upgrade as Part of Big Day of Giving Campaign
APRIL 25, 2025
CHARLOTTETOWN, PE — The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) Foundation is proud to announce a new fundraising initiative as part of its upcoming Big Day of Giving on May 21. The foundation is launching a $95,000 campaign to fund advanced MRI technology at QEH, the only hospital in Prince Edward Island that offers MRI services.
This new campaign builds on several urgently needed equipment priorities highlighted in the foundation’s spring mail appeal. It is part of a larger effort to ensure QEH continues to provide exceptional care for Islanders across the province.
Identified as a priority by the QEH, the upgraded MRI technology will cut scan times in half for some types of imaging, allowing for approximately 20 additional patient scans each week. This means shorter wait times and faster access to important diagnoses.
“This is an exciting and impactful addition to our Big Day of Giving campaign,” said Tracey Comeau, CEO of the QEH Foundation. “We’re proud to support our provincial referral hospital with investments that have a direct impact on patient care. With the community’s support, we can make this enhancement to MRI technology a reality.”
The new MRI software will deliver faster imaging, improved image quality and enhanced patient comfort, all of which will help QEH deliver timely and accurate care.
“We’re thrilled to see this upgrade moving forward,” said Gailyne MacPherson, director of hospital services at QEH. “It will allow our team to serve more patients, more efficiently, and ultimately support better health outcomes for Islanders.”
The Big Day of Giving is an important opportunity for Islanders to show their support for local healthcare. Every donation made on May 21 will go directly toward vital medical equipment, such as the MRI upgrade, and will help make a real difference for patients across P.E.I.
Visit www.qehbigday.ca for more information.
Media Contact:
Erin MacDonald
Communications Director, QEH Foundation
erinmacdonald@ihis.org
(902) 894-2956