Holiday Spirit Shines for Children in Palliative Care in Montreal

The holiday season brings a touch of joy to children receiving palliative care in Montreal, thanks to dedicated staff and community support. Le Phare, a specialized organization, provides care for around 200 families and offers 12 beds for children who are facing serious health challenges. While the nature of palliative care can be daunting, the staff at Le Phare work tirelessly to create moments of magic during the festive period.

Le Phare caters to children with various critical conditions, including cancer, metabolic disorders, and rare genetic diseases. Among them is Adrien Gonthier, a four-and-a-half-year-old boy born with a rare genetic disorder. With only about 20 similar cases worldwide, Adrien’s future remains uncertain. His mother, Gabrielle Gonthier, emphasizes that palliative care for children differs significantly from that for adults. “We enjoy each day as if it were our last, not knowing what tomorrow will bring,” she stated.

Recently, Adrien participated in a festive parade organized specifically for the children at Le Phare. Emergency service personnel, including police officers, paramedics, and firefighters, paraded in their vehicles, bringing excitement and joy to the children. This event, now in its sixth year, aims to uplift families during difficult times, allowing them to experience a semblance of holiday cheer.

Creating Joyful Moments Amid Challenges

The director of care and services at Le Phare, Ariane Parent-Lemay, highlighted the importance of such events. “We bring beauty and joy to families who are going through challenging times,” she remarked. The staff strive to remind families that even at the end of life, there can be moments of light and happiness.

For staff members like one anonymous employee, the experience of working during the holidays is both rewarding and poignant. As a parent of a child with multiple disabilities, she understands the challenges firsthand. “Traveling during the holidays can be exhausting, but the support we receive at Le Phare allows us to take a step back and recharge,” she explained. The facility’s provision of respite care has enabled her family to enjoy the holiday season more fully.

Reflecting on her experiences from previous years, the employee recalled a particularly emotional moment when staff celebrated New Year’s Eve with a family in the presence of their terminally ill child. “These moments may be difficult, but they are cherished by families,” she said.

Supporting Families During the Festive Season

This year, Gabrielle Gonthier and her family opted for a quieter Christmas celebration at home. In past years, they participated in festivities at Le Phare while their extended family gathered elsewhere in Quebec. Parent-Lemay noted that many families often feel guilt about utilizing respite services during the holidays. She advocates for a shift in perspective, emphasizing that taking time for oneself is essential for parents to provide the best care for their children.

“During the holidays, it is vital for parents to know that their children are in a nurturing environment where they can thrive,” she said. Le Phare ensures that the children receive gifts and enjoy performances from local partners, including Les Grands Ballets Canadiens and the Orchestre Métropolitain de Montréal. The presence of Santa Claus further adds to the festive atmosphere.

Despite the challenges faced by families in palliative care, the dedication of organizations like Le Phare serves as a beacon of hope and joy during the holiday season. This report, originally published in French by the Canadian Press on December 20, 2025, underscores the importance of community and support in navigating the complexities of end-of-life care for children.