For 40 years, Hope Air has been delivering on Canada’s promise of universal healthcare — and we’ve never done it alone. Since 1991, our Patrons have played a vital role in shining a national spotlight on equitable access to healthcare and strengthening the credibility behind our mission.

That legacy began in 1991, when Arden Haynes, CEO of Imperial Oil and an Officer of the Order of Canada, became our very first Patron. His leadership helped establish trust and recognition at a pivotal moment in our history.

Momentum continued in 1992, when astronaut and physician Roberta Bondar accepted an invitation to serve as Patron, later extending her support as Patron of Give Hope Wings. Her voice amplified our mission and inspired Canadians from coast to coast.

In 2001, astronaut and former Member of Parliament Marc Garneau became Hope Air’s first National Honorary Patron, drawing national attention — particularly within Canada’s aviation community — to the families we serve.

A decade later, Rick Mercer joined Hope Air as an Honorary Patron, later championing our work on The Rick Mercer Report, helping introduce new audiences to our cause.

We are also deeply honoured that since Roméo LeBlanc became our first Viceregal Patron, every Governor General of Canada has continued this tradition of support, including Adrienne Clarkson, Michaëlle Jean, David Johnston, and Julie Payette.

Their patronage has elevated Hope Air’s visibility and helped more patients across Canada access the care they need.

This is a special year for Hope Air. As we celebrate 40 years of service, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the patrons who have helped elevate Hope Air’s national impact. Together, we’re marking four decades of removing barriers to care and looking ahead to an even greater future of possibility and access for all.