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April 2026 Newsletter
At Bow Valley Palliative, our mission is to provide compassionate, individualized palliative care and grief support to individuals and families throughout the Bow Valley. |
Coming originally from the UK, springtime in the Bow Valley is a little different to where I come from! Here, I must wait a little longer to see the spring flowers, green leaves, and blossoms. Even then, everything can be snow covered in a heartbeat. I often reflect on how resilient the Bow Valley is, making the best of what we have when we have it, and creating memories whether faced with the expected or unexpected!
That determination, pride in our community, and resilience is what has led to Bow Valley Palliative celebrating its 10th anniversary on April 20! It’s hard to believe that we have been actively supporting members of our community for 10 years through our programs, community supports, training, and education. We have never lost sight of our roots; volunteers continue to play an integral part of us as an organization and the programs that we provide to people in the Bow Valley. From the small group of founding members in 2016, our volunteers have grown to almost 90, including those that partner with clients and families, provide support at events and participate in working groups, committees and on our Board. We could not do it without them!
To celebrate our 10th anniversary and the appreciation of our volunteers throughout that time, we are inviting all of our volunteers past and present to join us on April 21 from 4:30-6:30pm at Canmore Together. It’s always a great opportunity to mix and mingle and catch up with old friends and meet new ones!
We are also hosting another Open House, this time held in Banff on April 23 more details about that event are below. |
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The Pestell Centre for Compassionate Care |
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A look at the current work happening for access to the Pestell Centre for Compassionate Care. |
After such a long wait, it is wonderful to see that work has finally begun on the access road to our site where the Pestell Centre for Compassionate Care will be built.
As well as extending the road, the development includes laying the necessary utilities which will service the Centre when it is open. All of this work is being generously undertaken by the McCaffery’s who are ensuring that we will have all the services right to the entrance of our land. It truly is an exciting time.
We also had the pleasure of touring the site with a representative from the Stoney Nakoda Nation. Our connection with all members of our community is critical as we develop our programs, supports, and space. |
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Bow Valley Palliative Welcome's Two New Staff Members |
 | Carleen Beddome
Executive Assistant
Carleen is a people-focused professional with over 20 years of experience in guest-facing roles and more than a decade of experience in administration and operations leadership.
She has a strong background in training, operational systems, and team support, and finds great joy in helping the people around her grow, succeed, and feel confident in their roles. |
 | Michelle Rhode
Director of Philanthropy
Michelle brings over 20 years of experience in the non-profit sector, with a focus on helping to build strong, connected communities & supporting initiatives that create meaningful impact.
Michelle is deeply committed to her work and values building genuine, trust-based relationships with community partners and donors. She is motivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference & support organizations that strengthen the communities they serve. |
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Thank You Co-operators Canmore! |
BIG thanks to Marlo and her team at Co-operators | Moir Insurance Services Inc. in Canmore!
Because of their support with securing $10,000 in grant funding, we can continue to provide essential programs and services to those across the Bow Valley who need them most.
Your contribution directly fuels our mission and we are very grateful! |
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Save the Date!
Golf for Hospice 2026 is Thursday August 13
at Stewart Creek Golf and Country Club.
*Registration will be available soon*
Contact Kristin for Sponsorship Opportunities!
Call 403-707-7633 or email kristin@bvpal.ca |
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April 7th = National Caregiver Day!
This annual day of appreciation is an opportunity to recognize, celebrate, and elevate the essential role caregivers play across Canada. Every day, family members, friends, and care partners provide critical support to individuals living with complex health, social, and functional needs, often balancing caregiving alongside employment, education, and other responsibilities. Their contributions are foundational to enabling people to live with dignity, independence, and quality of life at home and in their communities.Check out our The Thriving Caregiver webinar on our YouTube channel HERE. |
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More Free Caregiving Resources:
Compass for the Caregiver - Build practical skills and strategies to better navigate and manage stress that can arise in the caregiving role.
This education course is designed to equip caregivers with skills and strategies to better manage stress within their role.
More information and registration HERE |
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REMINDER:
Bow Valley Palliative Memberships Expire Annually On March 31!
Memberships can be renewed HERE
Please be reminded to renew your BVP membership if you would like to take part in our AGM and special meetings about the society. BVP's 2026 AGM will now be held in September.
As a Bow Valley Palliative member, you can:
- Participate in shaping the future of Bow Valley Palliative
- Elect the Board of Directors at the Annual General Meeting
- Vote on motions at annual or special general meetings to help guide our mission
- Approve by-law amendments
- Be part of a collective voice advocating for palliative care support in the Bow Valley
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Follow us on social media for more news and exciting updates! |
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