April 16, 2025
Spring Fling Raises $210,000
to Support Local Health Care
On a night themed INSPIRED and presented by Suncor, the 2025 Northern Lights Health Foundation Spring Fling united community members, health advocates, and supporters in a powerful celebration of resilience, healing, and hope—raising an incredible $210,000 in support of local health care priorities.
The evening featured a compelling Better Together Project panel discussion, spotlighting innovative collaborations to advance community wellness. Moderated by the Foundation, the panel brought together leading voices in regional health transformation:
– Karla Buffalo, CEO, Athabasca Tribal Council
– Jordanna Lambert, Senior Operating Officer, Alberta Health Services
– Mark Yiu, ACA Design Lab (formerly AHS Design Lab)
– Dr. Stephanie Montesanti, Canada Research Chair in Health System Integration
Together, they shared critical insights into health equity, Indigenous health, and the power of design in reimagining health services.
The event’s emotional heart came from breast cancer survivors Brenda McGuey and Sundas Shamshad, who courageously shared their stories of diagnosis, recovery, and the life-changing support received from the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre’s compassionate team. Their heartfelt message was clear: “Your donations help save lives.”
The live auction, led once again by energetic auctioneer Aaron, drew high participation and generous bids, further fueling the Foundation’s mission to elevate health care in the region.
“This year’s Spring Fling reminded us of the strength found in community and the inspiration born from shared experience,” said Vanessa MacNevin, Executive Director of the Northern Lights Health Foundation. “We are deeply grateful for our donors, sponsors, and guests whose support helps ensure that world-class care is available right here at home.”
A special thank you to presenting sponsor Suncor, whose leadership and ongoing commitment to community health make events like Spring Fling possible.
Media Contact:
Vanessa MacNevin, Executive Director
Northern Lights Health Foundation
Vanessa.MacNevin@ahs.ca
Phone: 780-791-6178
February 20, 2025
Northern Lights Health Foundation
Hosts 38th Annual Spring Fling: Inspire
Fort McMurray, AB
The Northern Lights Health Foundation is proud to present the 38th annual Spring Fling, an evening of elegance, inspiration, and philanthropy, taking place on April 5, 2025, at the Shell Place Grand Ballroom. This year’s event holds special significance as it marks the official launch of the Foundation’s 40th anniversary celebrations, a milestone that reflects four decades of dedication to advancing health and wellness initiatives in the Wood Buffalo region.
Presented by Suncor, this year’s Spring Fling theme, Inspire, will immerse guests in an evening of inspiration, celebration, and connection. Attendees will hear firsthand how donor generosity is transforming healthcare in our region, including the latest updates on the Better Together Capital Campaign, aimed at creating an Indigenous Wellness space on the 4th floor of the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre.
Guided by their mission to inspire philanthropy and fund excellence in healthcare, the Northern Lights Health Foundation is committed to ensuring that individuals and families in Wood Buffalo have access to high-quality, compassionate, and innovative medical services—close to home.
“For 40 years, the Northern Lights Health Foundation has been at the heart of healthcare transformation in our region. Spring Fling is more than a celebration—it is a testament to the power of community and a bold invitation to shape the future of healthcare in Wood Buffalo,” says Greg Fuhr, Chair of the Northern Lights Health Foundation.
“Spring Fling is a night where passion meets purpose, and generosity ignites change,” says Vanessa MacNevin, Executive Director of the Northern Lights Health Foundation. “The ‘Inspire’ theme will set the tone for an unforgettable evening—one that not only celebrates the achievements of the past 40 years but also propels us forward in shaping a healthier, stronger future for our region.”
The event also offers exclusive sponsorship opportunities for those looking to play a crucial role in the Foundation’s vision for a healthier, brighter future for all.
Tickets are available for purchase now: Northern Lights Health Foundation’s Spring Fling INSPIRE Gala Tickets, Sat, Apr 5, 2025 at 7:00 PM | Eventbrite
Media Contact:
Vanessa MacNevin, Executive Director
Northern Lights Health Foundation
Vanessa.MacNevin@ahs.ca
Phone: 780-791-6178
Northern Lights Health Foundation
7 Hospital Street, Fort McMurray, AB T9H 1P2
Office: 780-791-6041
Charitable Registration Number: BN 107395030 RR0001
Incorporated in Alberta March 1985