Champions of Care: A Night to Remember

alyssalong08
May 1
3 min read

Celebrating Healthcare Philanthropy in New Brunswick

Last week, we gathered to honour exceptional contributions to healthcare philanthropy at the Canadian Health Solutions Champions of Care. The evening was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together in support of better care for all.

Thanks to your generosity, we raised over $45,000 (net of expenses) in support of the New Brunswick Medical Education Foundation. These funds will bring us one step closer to our mission: ensuring that every New Brunswicker has access to a primary care provider.

From emotional reunions to moving musical moments, here are some of the night’s unforgettable highlights:

Honouring Champions of Care

We proudly recognized three remarkable contributors to healthcare advancement. Click the arrows next to each award recipient to view their introductory videos:

AstraZeneca Canada – Champions of Care Impact Award

David and Faye Huestis – Champions of Care Legacy Award

Dr. Donald Craig – Champions of Care Founder’s Award

Special thanks to our presenting sponsors, DP World and the Sisters of Charity of the Immaculate Conception, for making this evening possible.

"It Brought Tears To My Eyes"

In 1968, a young medical resident delivered a premature baby weighing just two pounds—one who wasn’t expected to survive. That baby let out a cry, and Dr. Donald Craig never forgot her.

Years later, he shared the story with our team as one of his most cherished memories from over four decades of medical practice. Inspired, we searched tirelessly through birth records to uncover the identity of that tiny fighter.

We found her: Krista Barczyk, now living in Sackville, NB. As a surprise to Dr. Craig—and everyone in the room—it was Krista who presented him with his award.

A Celebration in Song

The evening also featured two spellbinding performances by the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra, now celebrating its 60th season. For the second set, the orchestra was joined by internationally acclaimed soprano Measha Brueggergosman-Lee.

Together, they moved the audience with pieces such as Porgi Amore, Deep River, and Parton La Mer Est Belle—a breathtaking blend of classical and spiritual music.

In addition, two video excerpts from the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra's 60th anniversary series premiered during this celebration. Each clip features the 100+ member orchestra performing Gustav Mahler's Symphony No. 1 from the "Legacy of Excellence" tour.

Memories To Last A Lifetime

To our 350+ attendees, generous sponsors, and all who made our inaugural event such a success—thank you. Your belief in our mission fuels our progress.

📸 To view and save photos from the event, including blue carpet arrivals, explore our gallery by James Walsh and Rod Stears Photography:

We Gratefully Acknowledge

Gala Sponsor: Canadian Health Solutions

Presenting Sponsors: DP World and Sisters of Charity of the Immaculate Conception.

Event Sponsors: Shannex and AstraZeneca Canada.

Friend of the Foundation Sponsors: RBC and Beauceron Security.

In-Kind Sponsors: Acadia Broadcasting, Spicer Cole and Kierstead’s Flower Shop.

Table Sponsors: Chipman Hill Suites - CIBC Wood Gundy - College of Physicians and Surgeons of New Brunswick - EY - Fundy Engineering - Horizon Health Network - Irving Oil Limited - New Brunswick Department of Health - Port Saint John - Saint John Construction Association

Auction Contributors: Benefits Body Spa – Beaverbrook Art Gallery – Cap Sill Restaurant - Characters Matters – Coast Tire – Costco Saint John – Down East Bed and Breakfast – East Coast Ferries – East Quoddy Whale Watching – First Nations Storytellers – Go Fundy Events – Homeport Suites and Residences – La Belle Cabane – Maritime Helicopers – Mercedes Moncton – New Maritime Beer Company – The Playhouse - Radisson Kingswood – Saint John Flying Club – Seaskape Kayaking – Tangled Anglers – Westhills Golf Course –Yip Cider

Vendors: Saint John Trade and Convention Centre, Encore Global Audio Visual, Rod Stears Photography, and Spur Your Imagination

To learn more about this event, or to reach our team, please email info@nbmeded.ca.