Let’s celebrate CHEO’s big birthday by lighting up in purple

Ottawa, Ontario, May 2, 2024 – As CHEO marks 50 years of dedicated service to children, youth and families in the community, we invite everyone – residents, organizations, businesses – across the region to celebrate by lighting up in purple for CHEO on May 17.

From providing pediatric care to pioneering groundbreaking medical treatment, CHEO has held a special place in the community for 50 years.

“Everyone I meet has a CHEO story. I can’t wait to see our region show their love and support for CHEO by lighting up in purple on the night of May 17,” says Alex Munter, President and CEO of CHEO.

Purple has long been associated with healing, resilience, and compassion. It’s also CHEO’s official colour, making it a perfect hue to commemorate this milestone occasion.

By lighting the nation’s capital up in purple, everyone can show their support for CHEO's invaluable contributions to pediatric healthcare and their commitment to the well-being of children and families.

Already, organizations such as Dymon Storage, the ByWard Market District Authority and the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club have committed to showing their best purple on May 17.

Organizations and individuals are invited to show their purple online with the hashtag #CHEOLove and tagging CHEO on their preferred platform.

-30-

For details or interview requests, please contact: media@cheo.on.ca

About CHEO

Based in Canada’s capital, CHEO is a globally renowned health institution with a mission to provide exceptional care and support to children, youth and their families. Opening our doors in 1974, we offer a full range of specialized pediatric care and services to children from eastern and northern Ontario, western Quebec and Nunavut. Our site is home to a hospital, a children’s treatment centre, a school, a research institute, and is affiliated with the University of Ottawa as an academic health science centre. Named Canada’s best health-care employer by Forbes in 2024 and 2025, we are home to more than 6,500 staff, clinicians, scientists and researchers, as well as volunteers – all of whom work together to help children and youth achieve their best lives.