Stories of Strength & Resilience

When you support the IWK, you give the gift of hope and the chance of brighter futures for Maritime women, children, youth and families. In this report, you will meet remarkable IWK patients and families who inspire others with their courage and determination. Their stories are powerful reminders of why the IWK is so vital to our region and how your generosity helps to save and change lives.

A woman and a young girl smiling, standing close together outdoors. The woman has shoulder-length dark hair and wears a pink jacket. The girl has long dark hair, wears a floral top and blue jeans.

Marie with her daughter, Norah.

A Message from Our Champion Family

“In January 2025, my daughter, Norah, was announced as the 2025 Children’s Miracle Network Champion for the IWK, a role that celebrates her courage and resilience.

Born with a bilateral cleft lip and palate, Norah has embraced this visible difference and used her platform to advocate for the IWK and all the children across the Maritimes who go there.

This experience has been transformative for her self-confidence, mental health and has helped to develop her speech as well. Most importantly, it has instilled a deep sense of pride in who she is, in a world where she rarely sees others who look like her.

The experiences, memories and impact of this opportunity will stay with her for life.”

— Marie, mother of Norah, 2025 Children’s Miracle Network Champion for the IWK

DID YOU KNOW? The IWK Foundation is a member of the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN), which raises funds for children’s hospitals across Canada. Every single dollar raised through a CMN program goes directly to your local children’s hospital foundation. So, if you donate at checkout or purchase a CMN Miracle Balloon in the Maritimes, your donation will support the IWK.