MEMORIAL BUTTERFLY RELEASE
Click Here to Reserve Your Butterfly!
Last summer, many gathered at the Water Tower Park in Barry’s Bay to witness a touching display of remembrance: the Memorial Butterfly Release, a bereavement event hosted by Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care and the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation. As the sun warmed their wings, painted butterflies took to the air—symbols of love, hope, and transformation.
The O’Reilly family is among many who have used Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Services. Veronica O’Reilly, a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, was admitted to MV Hospice this April following an unexpected cancer diagnosis. Known for her unwavering faith, patience, and deep devotion to her large family - Veronica has left a lasting impact on everyone she meets.
While the family had no firsthand experience with hospice in the past, they now realize palliative services would not be possible without the dedicated staff, numerous volunteers and generous donations from the community.
“It has been an absolute blessing and gift to our family to spend this quality time with Mom and with each other, and these memories will stay with us forever,” Neil said.
Veronica O'Reilly in hospice surrounded by her children.
The O’Reillys’ story is one of many that reflect the deep impact of hospice palliative care in our community. Each year, families return to the Memorial Butterfly Release to reflect, heal, and honour their loved ones.
This year, the 9th annual Memorial Butterfly Release will take place on Sunday, July 27, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at Water Tower Park, behind the Opeongo Seniors Centre. For those unable to attend in person, butterflies may be picked up for a home release between 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm at the event grounds. A live feed will be available on our Facebook page.
The event will include music and guest speakers, including a heartfelt message from Life Cycle Celebrant Julie Keon. Pre-registration is required due to the time it takes to raise the butterflies. The cost is $35 per butterfly or three for $100, and all proceeds support hospice palliative care services in our region.
The deadline to reserve butterflies is Friday, July 11, 2025. Please return the enclosed form with your payment to: SFVH Foundation, P.O. Box 129, Barry’s Bay, ON K0J 1B0 or call 613-756-3045 ext. 217.
You may also reserve online at www.sfvhfoundation.com. If picking up butterflies, please bring an ice pack and an insulated lunch bag or cooler to keep them cool during transport.
This event is part of our grief and bereavement program, and we hope it brings comfort and reflection. Your ongoing support makes it possible for families like the O’Reillys to find peace and dignity during life’s most tender moments.
Check out this video of memories from the 2024 Butterfly Release: