Hope Air CEO Mark Rubinstein. / HOPE AIR PHOTO

Hope Air marked its 40th anniversary by highlighting four decades of helping Canadians access lifesaving medical care and renewing its commitment as demand for medical travel remains high.

The Toronto-based charity arranged more than 38,000 medical trips across Canada over the past year, including 3,000 in Ontario, supporting patients from more than 80 northern Ontario communities who must travel long distances for treatment.

One of those patients is 17-year-old Diamond Lalonde of Cochrane, Ont., who continues to travel to Toronto for follow-up appointments after completing five months of chemotherapy and becoming cancer-free. Diamond’s family said Hope Air covered flights, accommodation and local transportation during her treatment, easing the financial burden of accessing specialized care.

Hope Air was the family’s “saving grace when we didn't realize we needed them,” said Tracy Lalonde, Diamond’s mother.

Hope Air CEO Mark Rubinstein (also known as the Chief Hope Officer) said the anniversary is both a celebration of the charity’s impact and a reminder that demand remains strong.

“For so many, travel for medical care would otherwise be unaffordable or out of reach, resulting in delayed or cancelled appointments and worse health outcomes,” Rubinstein wrote in a message celebrating the milestone. “Because of your support, thousands of patients were able to reach care on time and move forward with treatment. Your compassion and steadfast belief in our mission is truly inspiring. Together, we ensure that no patient is left behind.”