2026 Perley Health Winter Olympics

The 2026 Perley Health Winter Olympics kicked off with warmth, excitement, and a strong sense of community spirit. Recreation Therapist, Rachel Dobson, opened the ceremony by welcoming residents, tenants, staff, families, and friends, highlighting the global Winter Games underway in Milano Cortina, Italy.

The morning began with a proud procession of flags. Representatives from the Rideau, Gatineau, Ottawa, and Tenant buildings carried their banners to the front of the room, followed by the Canadian flag and the Olympic flag, each presented with dignity and ceremony. The audience then joined together in singing O Canada, filling the space with shared pride and unity.

Next came the recitation of the Perley Olympic Oath, adapted from the traditional Olympic pledge. Led by recreation programmer, Xia Wiseman, participants rose, lifted their right hands, and promised to take part in the Games with sportsmanship, honour, and a commitment to having fun.

The energy shifted to celebration as music therapist, Tim Cote and creative arts instructor - musician, Dan Campoli, took the stage for a lively Canadiana‑themed concert that had the crowd smiling and singing along. The ceremony concluded with the dramatic entrance of the Olympic torch to the iconic Chariots of Fire theme, followed by the official declaration that the Perley Olympics were open.

In the afternoon, participants explored five Olympic Activity Stations: Medal Making, Curling, Biathlon Ski Track, Hockey Shoot, and a refreshing stop at the Gelato Parlour featuring local favourite Stella Luna Gelato. Each participant collected stamps in their Olympic Passport, with a photo opportunity in Lupton Hall for those completing at least three events. The day wrapped up with a 6:30 pm movie night featuring the winter classic Cool Runnings.

The event was a fitting showcase of the creativity, and dedication to person-centred care from the recreation team during National Therapeutic Recreation Month.

By: Rachel Dobson, CTRS, Recreation Therapist 

Another gold medal event at Perley Health as residents, tenants, staff, families, and friends take part in the Games with sportsmanship, honour, and a commitment to having fun.