Learn more about audrey’s Star
Meet Audrey
Audrey, a precious soul born on December 5, 2014, brought immense love and joy into the lives of those around her. Despite facing the challenges of a rare form of Mitochondrial disease diagnosed at the tender age of one, Audrey's spirit shone brightly throughout her brief journey.
In early 2018, Audrey was referred to the palliative and RNH team, where she and her family found solace and support. Audrey's older brother, Julien, found a safe space for himself thanks to the sibling play therapy offered by RNH, which helped him understand Audrey's hospital stays and illness through the power of play.
Audrey's infectious smile and unwavering positivity touched the hearts of everyone she met. Her ability to make others feel cherished and valued was truly remarkable. On the morning of October 12, 2018, when Audrey was feeling unwell, her family sought advice from RNH to ensure her comfort. Audrey was a few months short of her fourth birthday when she peacefully passed away in her sleep, surrounded by love, in the warmth of her bed.
Following Audrey's passing, her family found comfort at RNH, where they received compassionate bereavement support that continues to this day. Audrey's legacy lives on through various projects and initiatives aimed at honoring her memory, ensuring she is forever remembered.
Learn more about Audrey’s Star and the ACPR campaign
The Algonquin College Public Relations (ACPR) program runs a campaign every year to fundraise for a local charity and give students hands-on experience to succeed in the PR field. Since 1986, ACPR students have raised close to $500,000 in support of local organizations, including CHEO, the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre, LiveWorkPlay, Candlelighters, and the John Howard Society. This year’s campaign, titled “Audrey’s Star,” aims to raise money for Roger Neilson House, which provides end-of-life care to children. The name “Audrey’s Star” was inspired by a classmate's daughter, who passed away at the age of four from a terminal illness. Roger Neilson House became a home for little Audrey and her family when they needed care and support.
Learn more about Roger Neilson House
Established in 2006, Roger Neilson House is an eight-bed pediatric residential hospice located on the grounds at CHEO. It offers a home-like environment to children who face a high risk of dying before they reach adulthood. Its services include end-of-life care, memory-making and legacy-building activities, perinatal hospice, respite care, and bereavement services. So far, Roger Neilson House has provided care to more than 600 critically ill children and looks to serve many more in the future.