MEMORIAL BUTTERFLY RELEASE
Loved ones remembered at 2026 Butterfly Release
The community came together once again this summer for the annual Memorial Butterfly Release, a meaningful tradition that offers an opportunity to remember and honour loved ones while supporting compassionate end-of-life care in the Madawaska Valley.
Organized by Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care (MVHPC) and the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation, the 2026 Butterfly Release marked the 11th time the event has been held.
This year, 312 painted lady butterflies were reserved and released, with families participating both at the event and through personal ceremonies at home.
For many, the release provides a special opportunity to pause, reflect and remember someone they have lost. The gathering offers a safe and meaningful place for people to come together, share in their grief and honour the lives of loved ones.
The event also plays an important role in supporting local hospice services. Proceeds from the Butterfly Release support Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care, which provides free support to individuals and families facing a life-limiting illness.
MVHPC provides hospice palliative care throughout the community and in the two-bed residential hospice unit.
The Butterfly Release has now raised more than $112,000 for hospice and palliative care services in the community since the event began, helping to ensure compassionate care, comfort and dignity remain available to local individuals and families.
The St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation and MVHPC extend their sincere thanks to this year’s sponsors - Madawaska Valley Lions Club, CO Country Market, Barry’s Bay Royal Canadian Legion, Heubner Funeral Home, Campbell Monument, Opeongo Seniors Centre and Grace Monuments - whose generous support helped make the event possible.
The St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation works in partnership with the community to raise funds for the equipment, programs and healthcare priorities of its three healthcare partners: Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care, St. Francis Memorial Hospital and Valley Manor.
Below are a few photos from the 2026 event.
