North Bay is more than just a place to live; it’s where my family and I have built a life filled with love, laughter, and connection. My husband Thomas and I chose this community to raise our three children—Penelope, Wesley, and Nicky—and embrace the beauty and peace it offers. From family bike rides to quiet mornings at home, every moment here feels special. As a former pediatric nurse and now a Nurse Practitioner, I’ve also had the privilege of serving this incredible community that I call home.

Last year, my connection to this community deepened in ways I could never have imagined. While on maternity leave with my youngest, I made it a habit to take him along with me on my morning runs.

It was our time to bond and a way for me to regain my strength after pregnancy. One sunny morning, as we ran together along a quiet country road, everything changed in an instant. A truck towing a woodcutter came up from behind and struck us, throwing our lives into chaos and uncertainty.

When I woke up in the hospital, I learned the full scope of what had happened. My two-month-old son, Nicky, had been ejected from his stroller, soaring through the air. Miraculously, he escaped with only minor bruises, thanks to being snugly secured in the car seat attachment of his stroller. I wasn’t as lucky. At the scene, I lay motionless on the pavement, gravely injured and without vital signs, until a retired OPP officer driving by rushed to my side. He performed CPR tirelessly, working to keep me alive until paramedics arrived and were able to stabilize me just enough to give me a fighting chance.

From there, I was airlifted to the Emergency Department at the North Bay Regional Health Centre (NBRHC). It was a place I knew well, having worked alongside many of the incredible doctors and nurses who now stood by my side. Dr. Christopher Meyer and Dr. Mary Grise were among the physicians who provided exceptional care to both Nicky and me, ensuring that we received the attention we needed during those critical moments. Their swift actions and compassionate care allowed me to return to my family and continue to be the mom my children need. For that, I will be forever grateful.

Recovery was not easy, although it was filled with moments that reminded me of the strength of our community. My family, friends, and the dedicated team at NBRHC supported me every step of the way. They gave me the gift of hope and healing. Today, I savour every run, every bike ride, and every quiet moment with my children even more deeply. These experiences are a celebration of life and a testament to the care I received.

Your generosity helped ensure the life-saving care I needed was available when every second mattered. Thank you for your belief and commitment to supporting healthcare close to home. 

Grateful for this second chance, I felt compelled to give back. I made a donation to the NBRHC Foundation to honour the team that saved my life and cared for my son, to ensure others in our community can access the same exceptional care.

Exceptional healthcare is a partnership between the government, the hospital, and most importantly, our community. Together, we can make a difference for families like mine and help ensure our hospital remains ready when it matters most.

That day in the Emergency Department changed my life forever. It reminded me how fragile life can be and how essential it is to have a hospital like NBRHC right here in our community. Your kindness helps ensure that the same level of care is always here for others.

By donating today, you are investing in leading-edge medical equipment and essential resources, including X-ray machines, surgical equipment, mental health services, and so much more. Together, we can ensure our hospital is ready to care for our friends, family, and neighbours.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Chantelle Davis