Festival Chair Michelle Thornton reflects on 25 years of Peterborough’s Dragon Boat Festival

For 25 years, Peterborough’s Dragon Boat Festival has united the community in a powerful show of support for cancer care at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. Thanks to the dedication of the Festival Organizing Committee, host team Survivors Abreast, and so many participating paddlers, volunteers, sponsors and donors, the Festival has raised more than $4.9 million in donations to the PRHC Foundation—helping fund vital equipment and technology that keeps cancer care close to home.

Now, as the Festival prepares to celebrate its silver anniversary on Saturday, June 13 at Del Crary Park, organizers are hoping to surpass the $5 million milestone.

We spoke with 2026 Peterborough’s Dragon Boat Festival Chair, Michelle Thornton, about her personal connection to the event, the impact it has had on cancer care in our region and what makes this year’s celebration especially meaningful…

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Peterborough’s Dragon Boat Festival. How long have you been involved with the Festival and what first inspired you to join?

Michelle: I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014. Luckily it was caught early and surgery at Peterborough Regional Health Centre was the only treatment I needed. I had my operation that September and joined Survivors Abreast Dragon Boat team in November. I attended my first Festival in 2015 as a brand-new paddler. I remember being in the boat thinking—because in the beginning after diagnosis, all you think about is cancer—but I remember being in the boat thinking, “I’m focusing on paddling and I’m not thinking about anything else.” It was great! Then in 2017, I was approached by one of the founding members of the Festival to become Chair. Carol Mutton offered to co-chair with me as a bit of an incentive. It’s a really rewarding experience. I’ve met some amazing people along the way, made some great friends and heard some really inspiring stories.

You attended your first Festival in 2015, and now—more than a decade later—you’re chairing the Festival’s silver anniversary. What is it about this event that continues to inspire your commitment year after year?

Michelle: When I first came to the 2015 Festival, it really opened my eyes. I thought the government paid for hospital equipment and technology. It dawned on me that it was events like the Dragon Boat Festival that helped fund the equipment that helped diagnose me at PRHC. I realized then that this was way bigger than me. Being a part of this event is a way to give back and also pay it forward for somebody in the future. This is a huge community event that does a lot of good and can make a real difference in someone’s life. Along the road, I’ve met some amazing volunteers and committee members that keep coming back every year. They truly inspire me to keep going.

Beyond the excitement and community spirit, this Festival has a very real impact on cancer care in our region. Why is supporting PRHC Foundation through events like this so important to you personally?

Michelle: The thing is, I had my surgery at PRHC. My family was able to be with me without having to travel, so I know how important it is that care is close to home as much as possible. I actually did a deep dive in terms of all the equipment that has been fundraised with the money Peterborough’s Dragon Boat Festival has raised and it’s just, it’s amazing. You know, we’ve replaced mammogram machines, ultrasounds, we supported new CT scanners, an additional MRI… The list goes on. The Festival has really touched every part of the cancer care spectrum at PRHC. Our mandate is breast cancer, but really the equipment that we fundraise for supports all cancer care. I think everyone knows someone who has been touched by cancer. The Festival’s contribution is significant and it’s important. I’m really proud of these accomplishments and what we’ve managed to do to help our regional hospital over the 25 years.

The Festival has raised nearly $5 million for cancer care at PRHC. This year’s fundraising goal is especially meaningful. Can you explain the significance behind the number $325,018.01?

Michelle: This year we increased our goal by 25%, so it’s $325,018.01. The 25 reflects the 2 out of 5 Canadians who will be diagnosed with some form of cancer in their lifetime. The 18 is for the 1 in 8 women who will be diagnosed with breast cancer and the .01 is the percentage of men who will be diagnosed with breast cancer. So, all of the numbers mean something.

As you look ahead to this milestone Festival on Saturday, June 13, what are you most looking forward to on race day?

Michelle: We have five out-of-town survivor teams coming to help us celebrate this year, which is significant. So, the flower ceremony is going to be special. It’s a really festive day, although the purpose is a serious one, we make it fun. We have a beer garden and a Festival branded merchandise tent. There’s a petting zoo, games for the kids, face painting. The food and artisan vendors are amazing. And really, it’s the atmosphere. It’s electric. You can feel it, people are high-fiving and smiling, there’s music, and they’re hugging. It’s a community that comes together to make a difference, and you can really feel that connectivity. I get shivers thinking about it and my passion just grows as I visualize it.

Supporting the Campaign for PRHC one bite at a time

This June, dining out in Peterborough comes with an opportunity to support the $70 million Campaign for PRHC. Here’s how you can help simply by enjoying a meal at one of two restaurants by The Imperial Group:

  • $2 from every butter chicken sold at The Imperial Tandoor will be donated to PRHC Foundation
  • $2 from every burrito bowl sold at Agave will be donated to PRHC Foundation

Plus, The Imperial Group will match the donated proceeds up to $500!

We’re so grateful to these local businesses for giving back to our community in such a meaningful way. Treat yourself this June, support local and help strengthen healthcare for patients and families across our region.

Community generosity is advancing cardiac care at PRHC

Experts at Peterborough Regional Health Centre recently performed the first-ever Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) procedure in the hospital’s donor-funded Cardiac Cath Lab. It’s another important milestone on the journey towards full-service cardiac care at PRHC and it would not have been possible without donor support.

Through the Campaign for PRHC, donors invested $3.55 million to renovate and upgrade PRHC’s two cardiac cath lab suites with state-of-the-art technology. Not only are these advancements making cardiac care faster and safer, but they’re supporting lifesaving services not previously available at PRHC. 

Until recently, patients who needed an ICD procedure had to travel to Kingston or Toronto for care. Today, patients can receive this lifesaving treatment at PRHC, close to home and surrounded by loved ones, thanks to the donor-funded Cath Lab facilities.

An ICD is a small battery-operated device placed under the left or right collarbone with leads inserted into the heart to monitor its rhythm. If a life-threatening change occurs, the ICD can automatically shock the heart back into a safe rhythm, even if the patient is unconscious and alone.

For patients living with serious cardiac conditions, having access to this procedure close to home can be life-changing.

“It’s extremely exciting to see another example of how donor generosity coupled with PRHC’s vision and the skills of its doctors, nurses and staff can so significantly transform patient care,” says Lesley Heighway, President & CEO of PRHC Foundation. “Donor investment in building PRHC’s capability and capacity to transition to a comprehensive cardiac care program has enabled the introduction of ICD insertion right here, close to home. We’re incredibly grateful to every single donor who’s been a part of this ongoing journey. Thank you!”

PRHC’s first ICD procedure was successfully performed by Dr. Heather Cox in March 2026, with support and training provided through collaboration with University Health Network. PRHC is now the only hospital between Kingston and Scarborough offering this surgery.

For PRHC Foundation donor Jim Neill, whose visionary philanthropy inspired so many others to support the future of cardiac care in our region through the Campaign for PRHC, this latest advancement reflects the incredible impact a community can have when it comes together.

“The new lifesaving treatments coming to PRHC will once again change the face of cardiac care in our region,” says Mr. Neill. “I’m glad that my commitment is helping ‘keep our hearts here’ as PRHC builds on a donor-funded cardiac care foundation, on its way to a third cardiac lab and ultimately a full-service heart centre. I’m honoured to be part of the tradition of philanthropy that has supported this hospital since the beginning. I hope that my donation and what it’s helping to make possible will encourage and inspire others, as the donors who have come before have inspired me.”

Swing Fore Mental Health will benefit patient care at PRHC

The second annual Swing Fore Mental Health golf tournament is returning to Black Diamond Golf Club on September 17, 2026, bringing our community together in support of mental health care at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. This year’s tournament will be held in memory of Fred Smith, a cherished friend to so many at Black Diamond Golf Club.

Mental health affects families, friends, neighbours and colleagues. Events like Swing Fore Mental Health help shine a light on the importance of compassionate mental health care while continuing the conversation to eliminate stigma in our communities.

PRHC Foundation is grateful to the organizers, sponsors, golfers, volunteers and supporters who make this tournament possible. Proceeds from this year’s event will directly support mental health care services at PRHC, helping ensure patients and families in our region have access to the care and support they need, close to home.

For questions or tournament registration information, please email Barb Timms.

Turn up the volume for patient care with Pay to Play for PRHC on Oldies 96.7

What happens when great music, local radio and community spirit come together for a good cause? You get Pay to Play for PRHC! This radiothon will give listeners the power to pick the playlist and support world-class care close to home.

On Friday, June 5 from 9am to 5pm, PRHC Foundation is teaming up with Oldies 96.7 for a full day of music, storytelling, and fundraising live from the Peterborough Regional Health Centre cafeteria. The best part? Every song request helps fund patient care at PRHC.

Here’s how it works:

Go online to the Pay to Play page, make a minimum $50 donation to PRHC Foundation’s Campaign for PRHC and request your favourite song, then hear it played on Oldies 96.7. Whether you’re into classic rock, country, pop hits, guilty pleasures, or a power ballad that deserves another moment in the spotlight, this is your chance to take over the airwaves for a great cause.

Throughout the day, listeners will hear inspiring stories from patients, physicians, nurses, staff, donors and hospital leaders about how your donations help bring leading-edge equipment and technology to PRHC and why that matters for families across our region.

“This is what local radio is supposed to be. Not just background noise, but a force,” says Rob Mise, VP of Content at My Broadcasting Corporation, operator of Oldies 96.7. “When our audience shows up, we can literally change the level of care in our own regional hospital. That’s powerful.”

Oldies 96.7 Morning Show Host Bill Porter, who will host the event, agrees.

“You’re not just hearing great songs, you’re funding lifesaving equipment, better care, and real outcomes for people you might know,” says Bill. “That’s the difference.”

Presented by sponsor Home Instead, the event highlights the incredible impact community support has on healthcare in our region. While government funding covers many hospital operating costs, it doesn’t fund the equipment and technology healthcare teams rely on every day.

That’s where community generosity comes in.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Oldies 96.7 and Home Instead for partnering with us to bring this exciting new event to life,” says Lesley Heighway, President & CEO of PRHC Foundation. “Community-driven events like this are vital to ensuring exceptional care remains close to home, when we need it.”

Song request spots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis until the broadcast schedule fills up. Donations will continue to be accepted until the fundraiser wraps up on Friday, June 5 at 5pm. Click here to make your request. 

MILK + TEA extends their “Eat local. Give local.” philosophy to PRHC

There’s a delicious new way to support patient care at Peterborough Regional Health Centre.

For a limited time, MILK + TEA in downtown Peterborough is donating a portion of online sales of sourdough bagels, cookies, cinnamon rolls, English muffins, and Bubble Tea Boba Kits to the PRHC Foundation in support of the $70 million Campaign for PRHC.

Every purchase helps keep world-class care close to home. So when you enjoy a treat, you’re also supporting PRHC doctors, nurses, staff, patients and their families. Thank you, MILK + TEA!

You can browse their delicious menu items here.

Tracey Germa’s fundraiser for cancer care at PRHC

Tracey Germa’s fundraiser for cancer care at Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) is gaining momentum. What began as a goal of $12,000 has already been surpassed, and she’s not stopping there. Tracey has now raised her sights to $15,000 in support of cancer care.

Her commitment to this cause is personal. In February 2021, Tracey was diagnosed with breast cancer. She underwent a mastectomy shortly after and completed 20 rounds of radiation that summer. For the past five years, she has continued her treatment with Tamoxifen. Now, as she approaches the end of her treatment on May 31st, she’s marking this milestone in a meaningful way by giving back to the place that supported her through it all.

Tracey is reviving a fundraiser she first launched during her recovery. She’s selling packs of blank-inside cards in support of cancer care at PRHC.

This year’s cards feature new artwork created by her husband, James. The design is inspired by a powerful moment during Tracey’s recovery. After her surgery, she noticed a single leaf clinging to a tree in her backyard throughout the winter. It became a quiet but powerful symbol of strength and resilience. Over time, that same tree has grown and flourished, mirroring Tracey’s own journey. The updated design reflects this story of renewal and includes imagery of regrowth alongside the word “hope.”

To learn more about Tracey’s story, support her fundraiser, or purchase a set of cards, please visit her personal fundraising page for full details.

PRHC on Forbes best list again

For the second consecutive year, PRHC has been named one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes, ranking among the top hospital employers nationwide.

Based on independent surveys evaluating compensation, flexibility, and growth opportunities, this honour reflects what many already know: PRHC is a place where team members thrive.

With over 3,100 staff, 450 physicians with privileges, and 250 volunteers focused on patient care for a region of more than 600,000, our hospital’s greatest strength is its people and we’re proud to support them.

Thank you, volunteers!

April 19 to 25 is National Volunteer Week! The Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation team is pleased to join the rest of the country in honouring all the generous ways volunteers contribute to their communities.

Here in our region, we’re particularly grateful for the wonderful volunteers who support our mission and the $70 million Campaign for PRHC.

Thank you, volunteers! Whether you serve on our Foundation Board of Directors or committees, lend your time in the PRHC Foundation Gift Shop or office, participate in the Allied Professional Advisory Council, champion fundraising as a Campaign Council member or campaign ambassador, organize community events and personal fundraisers, or support those initiatives, you’re helping reimagine health and care at PRHC. This year’s Volunteer Week theme, “Ignite Volunteerism,” is a perfect reflection of your passion and generosity. You’re igniting our regional community in support of the PRHC Foundation and your hospital—helping everyone see themselves in the campaign—and we couldn’t do it without you!

“Thank you for your time, your energy, your enthusiasm, your generosity,” says PRHC Foundation President & CEO, Lesley Heighway. “Your commitment to the Foundation, PRHC and your community makes it possible to fund state-of-the-art equipment, fuel innovation, bring lifesaving, new services to our region, and recruit top healthcare experts. You’re helping to make the $70 million Campaign for PRHC an ongoing community success, so far raising over $60.6 million in support of world-class patient care. Thank you!”

From all of us at the PRHC Foundation and on behalf of patients and their families, thank YOU—together we’re igniting the flames of change through volunteerism, reimagining healthcare.

Smile Cookie makes a return to PRHC April 27-May 3

From Monday, April 27 to Sunday, May 3, the scrumptious Smile Cookie returns to the Peterborough Regional Health Centre cafeteria’s Compass Canada Tim Hortons location – they’ll be serving up those famous chocolate chunk smiles all week long (while supplies last).

These cookies are more than just a delicious treat. Each one, topped with a pink icing smile and bright blue icing eyes, helps make a real difference. 100% of proceeds from Smile Cookie sales at this location are donated to the PRHC Foundation, funding essential equipment and technology that empowers life-changing and lifesaving care at our regional hospital.

A big thank you to Compass Canada Manager, Warren, and his amazing team for bringing this initiative to life year after year. And to every supporter, thank you! Each cookie purchased helps turn a small moment into big, meaningful impact.

If you’re at PRHC, please grab a cookie, share a smile, and help us make this week extra sweet!