Gathered for the cheque presentation were members of Belles with Balls NL, alongside representatives of the Health Care Foundation and NL Health Services. Back row (left to right): Kelly Reid, Dr. Patti Power, Alana Walsh-Giovannini, Bonnie Morgan, Victoria Ryan, Barbi King, Janice Ryan, and Hayley Wilson. Front row (left to right): Kaitlyn Jarvis and Karen Stapleton.
In the month that honours ovarian cancer awareness, Belles with Balls NL has made a bold and meaningful investment in the future of women’s surgical care in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Founded by women whose lives have been touched by ovarian cancer, Belles with Balls NL has long championed awareness, education, and early detection throughout the province. This latest gift marks a new chapter in their mission: one that bridges advocacy with innovation.
“Belles with Balls NL is honoured to present these monies to the Health Care Foundation, particularly during the month of September, which is very important to us, as it is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. This groundbreaking piece of equipment will support women’s overall health in Newfoundland and Labrador and will advance healthcare in our province,” said Alana Walsh-Giovannini, Co-Chair, Belles with Balls NL.
Bonnie Morgan, Co-Chair, Belles with Balls NL, added: “This presentation is a result of the faithful support the Belles have received from our loyal donor community over the past number of years. Thank you. We are truly grateful.”
The robotic-assisted surgical system supports greater precision in complex procedures, with particular relevance to gynecologic oncology.
The technology at the heart of this gift is poised to reshape surgical care within the province’s health system, offering a minimally invasive option for a range of complex procedures. For the Belles, its potential to advance gynecologic oncology carries special significance.
What makes this gift so powerful is how it connects vision with community. The Belles are grounded in lived experience and collective purpose. Their voice has resonated across Newfoundland and Labrador; today it is matched with a tangible, forward-looking commitment that strengthens women’s health.
Looking ahead, their generosity sets the foundation for lasting change. As the robotic-assisted technology becomes more fully integrated into clinical care, the potential outcomes— shorter recovery times, greater precision, fewer complications— are no longer distant ideals. They are real possibilities that this community has helped bring closer to reality.
This moment reflects both recognition and renewed hope. The journey continues, with Belles with Balls NL leading the way and with the promise of meaningful impact in the lives of patients and families throughout the province.
Get a closer look at the robotic-assisted surgical system in action in the Health Care Foundation’s campaign video.
