As hope grows, our children grow.

Victor was only four years old when he was diagnosed with epilepsy. At its peak, he would experience more than 200 seizures each and every day, and nothing seemed to make him better.

As a father, you often feel like you have to “be strong” for your family. But if there’s one thing this ordeal has taught me, it’s that we can — and should — be vulnerable, too. The real strength is knowing how to make it through the tough times and celebrate the victories as they come.

It didn’t matter to you how risky our pregnancy was: you were just so happy to be becoming a daddy, three times over! But then, things went south. I wouldn’t have wanted anyone else by my side that day at the Sainte-Justine emergency room.

I found out I had leukemia when I was just 10 years old. I spent the next several years at Sainte-Justine, fighting for my survival. Today, nearly 15 years later, I’m back, only this time to bring a new life into the world.

You were already holding hands as you were growing in my womb. You amazed the nurses and doctors at every appointment. It was easy to mix you up on the ultrasound screen. They called you their little “mono mono twins.” Adèle and Noella, here is your story.

Every day, my colleagues and I benefit from your generosity. Your donations give us access to the latest medical advances, which are so essential in ensuring the best possible future for the babies we look after.

Every day, my dear moms, you remind me of the importance of science, research, clinical simulations and donations. Together, they make it possible for my colleagues and me to provide you and your babies with the best care imaginable.

Today, as I accept the tremendous honour of stepping into the role of President and CEO of the CHU Sainte-Justine Foundation, I am thinking of all the young people who will be guiding me, and guiding us all, along the path forward.