MEMORIAL BUTTERFLY RELEASE

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Reservations now open for 2026 Memorial Butterfly Release 

Grief has a way of reminding us how deeply we have loved. 

Each summer, the Memorial Butterfly Release brings families and friends together to honour those they miss most - sharing in a moment of remembrance, healing, and hope. As hundreds of painted butterflies take flight over Water Tower Park in Barry’s Bay, they serve as a beautiful symbol of love, transformation, and the enduring connection we carry with those we have lost.

This year, Darryl Stoppa and Bobbie Kuehl are among the families honouring someone deeply loved at the Butterfly Release. Darryl’s wife of 10 years, Jeanette Stoppa, spent her final days surrounded by family, friends, coworkers, and compassionate staff and volunteers at the two-bedroom hospice residence run by Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care (MVHPC).

“When Jeanette came to hospice, we were welcomed with open arms,” said Darryl. “The staff and volunteers made a very difficult time feel comforting and supportive.”

With the support of MVHPC, Darryl had been caring for Jeanette at home throughout her illness. As her needs became more complex, hospice provided comfort not only for Jeanette, but for those caring for her as well - allowing Darryl to step away from the role of caregiver and simply spend meaningful time with his wife during her final days.

Bobbie, who worked alongside Jeanette at the Killaloe CRC for more than 20 years, said hospice gave loved ones the opportunity to simply be together.

“It felt more like a home than a medical setting. We were able to focus on spending time with Jeanette while the staff made sure she was comfortable and cared for.”

At one point, more than 50 family members, friends, and coworkers gathered at hospice to visit Jeanette. When she died, many took part in an Honour Guard, accompanying her as she was escorted from hospice for the final time.

Jeanette’s story is one of many that reflects the deep impact of hospice palliative care in our community. Each year, families gather at the Memorial Butterfly Release to reflect, heal, and honour loved ones who have touched their lives.

This year, the 10th annual Memorial Butterfly Release will take place on Sunday, July 26, 2026 at the Water Tower Park behind the Opeongo Seniors Centre.  Registration for those attending the event in person begins at 1:00 pm, with the ceremony starting at 1:30 pm. For those unable to attend in person, butterflies may be picked up for a home release between 12:30 pm and 1:00 pm at the event grounds. A live feed will be available on the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation’s Facebook page starting at 1:30 pm. 

The event will include music and guest speakers, including a heartfelt message from Jenna Stamplicoski, MVHPC Bereavement and Volunteer Coordinator. 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 3, 2026. 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 wrapped in a towel 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 Darryl and Jeanette’s to find peace, dignity, and compassionate care close to home.