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Celebrating 125 years of Holland Bloorview: a journey of innovation and transformation

On December 16, 2024, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital (Holland Bloorview) marked an extraordinary milestone—125 years of innovation and transformation in the lives of countless children, youth and their families who have entrusted us in being partners in their care. Over the past century and a quarter, we have created more than 200 programs; fostering a culture of belonging and championing  excellence in quality, safe care.

The event was magical, bringing together over 300 attendees, including clients, families, current and former staff, volunteers, government officials, donors, community partners and supporters who have shaped the hospital’s legacy over the years.  Filled with warmth, joy, and an incredible sense of pride, guests exchanged stories, laughs, memories and heartfelt gratitude for the hospital's contributions to the hundreds of thousands of lives Holland Bloorview has touched across Ontario, Canada and beyond.

 

An adult and a child on the stage

 

In her opening remarks, Julia Hanigsberg, president and CEO of Holland Bloorview, captured the heart of the celebration:

"Today, we celebrate the incredible people behind our hospital—the visionaries, caregivers and supporters who make it all possible. This milestone reflects 125 years of unwavering dedication to helping children and youth live their best lives. Together, we’re building a future where every child’s potential is realized.”

On behalf of the board of directors,Catherine Roche, chair of the hospital’s board of directors, expressed heartfelt thanks to the community. “I want to thank each and every one of you—children, families, staff, learners, volunteers, partners and colleagues from government--for all of your contributions to Holland Bloorview's incredible journey and success. Your support, dedication, and belief in our mission have made this milestone possible.”

A day to remember

Emceed by two client ambassadors extraordinaire, Tai and Alex, the celebration included a number of special moments, including a time capsule ceremony symbolizing Holland Bloorview’s rich history. A carefully curated selection of artifacts, representing our current work and innovation in care, research and teaching, were carefully placed in a capsule by members of our community, including clients, families and current and former staff members, to be opened in 2074. This gesture underscores our commitment to preserving our legacy and learnings from the past 125 years and embracing our responsibility to shape a brighter future for generations to come.

“Our work, and our legacy does not end here. As we turn the page on our first 125 years, we look towards the Holland Bloorview of tomorrow. Our strategic plan, Holland Bloorview 2030, outlines the next phase of our journey: supporting a healthy team while driving care that is agile, socially accountable and transformed by research and education. Truly exciting times ahead for us all and we couldn’t do it without your unequivocal support,” says Hanigsberg.

 

A group of people on the stage

 

No event at Holland Bloorview is compete without cake, and December 16, 2024, was no different.  Everyone erupted in a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday,” led by the amazing choir from Bloorview School Authority. It was a moment of pure joy, filled with smiles, laughter and an overwhelming sense of community.

The event culminated with an incredible performance from the ASD band, a group of youth on the autism spectrum, including a former Holland Bloorview client Ron Adea, who serenaded the crowd with their talent as they mingled, shared stories and gratitude for one another about the place many call their home away from home.

To see more highlights from this incredible celebration, watch our wrap-up video here.

The celebration continues!

Join us in the hospital’s Coriat Atrium from January 27 to February 7 to view the 12 chapters of Holland Bloorview’s incredible 125 years and get an up-close look at the time capsule before it is sealed and preserved in our archives for the next 50 years.

For more on Holland Bloorview’s 125 years of impact, visit hb125.hollandbloorview.ca

See congratulatory messages here.