Hope in Motion 2026: A Community United by Hope

As Thanksgiving approaches, I am reminded of the incredible generosity and community spirit that make Hotel Dieu Shaver so special. That spirit was on full display at this year's Hope in Motion, where patients, families, staff, volunteers, sponsors, donors, and community partners came together with a shared commitment to supporting rehabilitation care in Niagara. It was a day filled with energy, inspiration, and hope.

Thanks to your support, Hope in Motion raised more than $69,500 for patient care and equipment at HDS. These funds will help ensure patients have access to the specialized tools and resources they need on their journey to recovery. On behalf of the Foundation, thank you for helping make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. We are grateful for your partnership and for the collective impact we are making together.

The fourth annual Hope in Motion brought together hundreds of participants, volunteers, sponsors, patients, families, staff, and community supporters in a powerful celebration of rehabilitation, resilience, and community.

What began four years ago as a fundraising event has grown into something much more. Hope in Motion celebrates the strength and determination of individuals who have faced life-changing illness or injury while raising funds for the specialized patient care equipment that helps people regain mobility, independence, and confidence.

Throughout the day, participants walked, rolled, ran, volunteered, cheered, and shared in the spirit of hope that defines the recovery journey. For many, the event was an opportunity to honour a loved one, support rehabilitation care, or celebrate personal milestones achieved through perseverance and hard work.

One of the most meaningful parts of Hope in Motion is the opportunity to recognize former patients whose stories embody the impact of rehabilitation. This year's Hope in Motion Graduates, Debbie, Frank, and Shelley, inspired our community by sharing their experiences and reminding us that recovery looks different for everyone. Through courage, determination, and the support of those around them, they have overcome challenges, adapted to change, and continued moving forward. Their stories served as a powerful reminder that every milestone, no matter how big or small, deserves to be celebrated.

As Director of Rehabilitation Jeane Davis-Fyfe shared during the event, recovery is often measured not just in distance travelled, but in the moments that matter most: taking a first step, regaining the use of a hand, returning to a favourite hobby, or coming home to family. These achievements may seem simple to some, but for the individuals experiencing them, they can mean everything.

Every dollar raised through Hope in Motion helps purchase specialized patient care equipment not funded through government sources. These tools play a critical role in helping patients rebuild strength, regain independence, and achieve goals that may once have felt out of reach.

The success of Hope in Motion would not have been possible without the incredible dedication of our volunteers, community partners, sponsors, participants, and donors. We are also grateful to the many elected officials, board members, and community leaders who joined us in support of rehabilitation care in Niagara. Together, you helped create a day that celebrated not only fundraising success, but the life-changing impact of recovery.

I would also like to congratulate this year's top fundraisers. HDS = Hope Drives Spirit was recognized as our Top Fundraising Team, while John Rollo earned the distinction of Top Individual Fundraiser. Their dedication and enthusiasm helped inspire others to get involved and make a difference.

As we reflect on another successful Hope in Motion, I am reminded that this event is about so much more than dollars raised. It is about bringing people together around a shared belief that every person deserves access to the care, equipment, and support they need to reach their goals. It is about celebrating resilience, recognizing progress, and creating hope for patients and families across Niagara.

Thank you to everyone who participated, donated, volunteered, sponsored, and cheered us on. Because of you, we are helping patients take meaningful steps forward every day.

With gratitude,

Kristina Manzi
Executive Director, Hotel Dieu Shaver Foundation