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ROOM TO BREATHE

Battlefords Healthcare Foundation launches $250K campaign to transform hospital courtyard

Nov 6, 2026 | 5:05 PM

A new campaign by the Battlefords Healthcare Foundation aims to give patients, families and healthcare workers at Battleford Union Hospital a peaceful place to step outside and take a breath.

Called Room to Breathe, the campaign will transform the hospital’s outdoor courtyard into a welcoming space that recognizes the importance of comfort and connection beyond medical care.

Helping launch the initiative is the Evelyn Gardiner Legacy Collection, featuring 10 art cards and three canvas print selections showcasing her artwork. With production costs covered by the Gardiner family, all proceeds from sales will go toward the campaign.

As a nurse, Gardiner understood the importance of compassionate care. Through her artwork, she shared beauty, colour and a connection to nature. As the project’s founding artist, her legacy will help set the stage for a broader community initiative, with opportunities for other artists, donors and partners to contribute in the years ahead.

“Sometimes what someone needs most is a quiet place to sit, a little sunlight, or time together outside a hospital room. Room to Breathe is about making space for those moments. Evelyn’s art is helping us begin, and our hope is that others will see a place for themselves in this vision too,” said Leanne, executive director of the Battlefords Healthcare Foundation.

Alongside the courtyard project, the foundation is also making improvements to four palliative care rooms. Planned upgrades include softer lighting, artwork, comfortable furnishings and additional seating to help families spend time close to loved ones.

Community members can support Room to Breathe by purchasing artwork, making donations, becoming campaign partners or giving in memory or honour of someone. Contributions of materials and services are also welcome.

The campaign has a fundraising goal of $250,000, with construction targeted for spring 2027 and an opening anticipated in fall 2027.

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Cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com