August 31, 2020
In August, The Foundation held our second annual ‘Release of the Butterfly’ ceremony to commemorate the lives of those who have passed away over the past year at Bow View Manor, Clifton Manor, Tudor Manor and Wentworth Manor.
This year, due to the visitor and event restrictions and protocols in place for the prevention of COVID-19 in continuing care, we were unfortunately not able to extend an invitation to all employees, residents and families to participate in the ceremony. However, despite the current challenges it is important to find ways to continue our traditions and adapt to the ‘new normal’ we are we are facing at this time.
As such, this year’s Release of the Butterfly ceremony was held with a small group of representatives at each participating Manor, in order to maintain physical distancing and adhere with the current Public Health Orders for activities taking place within a continuing care environment. We were pleased to share links to a video recording and some pictures from the ceremonies.
The Release of the Butterfly annual service is presented by the BSF Palliative Care Committee and takes place simultaneously across all of The Foundation’s Manors. This year, in addition to commemorating the lives of those who passed away at each Manor, a moment of silence was held at all ceremonies to honour the lives of the residents at Clifton Manor who sadly passed away due to illnesses related to COVID-19.
The Release of the Butterfly ceremony enables families, residents and staff to come together to grieve and support each other as part of a caring community. It is an opportunity to commemorate those whom we have had the privilege to know, love, and care for, whom we have lost. It is an opportunity to celebrate the lives and relationships we had with them, as we learn to move forward with changes and transformation in our lives. From the moment when residents and families first arrive in our care, to the final moments of their journey when they make their final departure from our lives, we strive to create a sense of belonging for those we provide care and services – ‘The BSF Way.’
Together, we are BSF Strong!
Mike Conroy
President and CEO
