Med Students from CBMC to Perform at Annual Fundraiser

Students at the Cape Breton Medical Campus (CBMC) are getting ready to join their Dalhousie Medical School peers this weekend in Halifax for Euphoria, a long-standing tradition that blends performance, fundraising and friendly competition.

“It’s a talent show, it’s a fundraiser and it’s a tradition we’re proud to be part of,” says Grace Pimentel, a first-year CBMC student who is the Euphoria representative for the Sydney campus.

Grace and her fellow Med 1 classmates from CBMC will join Med 1 peers from Halifax and New Brunswick campuses as they prepare to compete against Med 2 through 4 classes. Each group will showcase their creativity on stage, all vying for the coveted Euphoria trophy and some well-earned bragging rights.

“While we’d love to win the prize, the real victory is the funds we raise,” Grace says.

This year, Med 1 students are raising money for T1D Kids Camps, a charity that provides children and youth living with type 1 diabetes the opportunity to attend a safe, fun and educational summer camp experience. T1D indicates that donations are critical to their success, as it costs three times more to operate a medically focused camp.

“With camps located in Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, T1D Kids Camps welcome children from across the Maritimes,” Grace explains. “Their mission is to support children, youth and families affected by type 1 diabetes by creating an inclusive, supportive community to help reduce the feeling of isolation by offering recreational and experiential programs and services.”

The camps are run by recreation and medical professionals and offer programming that blends fun with care. “It’s a chance for kids to connect, learn and thrive together,” Grace says. “Their medical needs are closely monitored and parents can feel reassured knowing their child’s health is built into the programming as a top priority.”

Euphoria has been a staple of Dalhousie Medical School since 1969. Each year, students organize the variety show to raise funds for a charity of their choosing, often performing to a sold-out audience.

“Each medical class writes, choreographs and performs their own 30-minute musical or play,” Grace says. “It’s one of the most anticipated events of the year—and an important way for us to give back.”

In addition to selling tickets to the Euphoria live performances, CBMC students are also selling $12 meal vouchers for an individual pizza at Boston Pizza in Sydney, with $5 from every voucher going directly to T1D Kids Camps.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Boston Pizza for supporting this cause,” says Grace. “And thank you to everyone who has already purchased vouchers. Your support helps ensure this life-changing experience continues for children and families across the region.”

There’s still time to support CBMC students in their fundraising efforts. To purchase a pizza voucher, or learn about other ways to contribute, please email Eli_Downton@cbu.ca.