Montreal’s Bal de la Jonquille Raises $3.175 Million for Ovarian Cancer Research

Key facts

• Bal de la Jonquille raised $3,175,000 at its 33rd edition on Thursday evening.
• Nearly 600 guests attended the gala at Windsor Station in Montreal.
• Funds will support a promising ovarian cancer research project led by Francis Rodier, Ph.D., at the CHUM Research Centre.
• Cancer affects two out of five people in Quebec.
• The event has been held annually since 1994.
• Sonia Benezra hosted the evening, emphasizing hope and collective engagement.

A Landmark Fundraising Night

Nearly 600 guests filled Windsor Station on Thursday evening for the 33rd edition of the Bal de la Jonquille, one of Quebec’s most prominent philanthropic events. The gala raised $3,175,000 to support cancer research and care, with proceeds earmarked for a highly promising ovarian cancer research project. The sum marks a significant contribution to the fight against a disease that touches two out of five people in Quebec. Since its inception in 1994, the Bal de la Jonquille has become a cornerstone of the province’s charitable landscape, blending elegance with solidarity.

Celebrities on the Red Carpet

A constellation of Quebec public figures turned out for the occasion, walking the chic red carpet in their finest attire. Among them were actresses Mariloup Wolfe, Laurence Leboeuf, Marie-Claude Savard, Alexandra Diaz, Ève-Marie Lortie, Anick Lemay, Julie Snyder, Ingrid Falaise, Émilie Cerretti, Diane Lavallée, Julie Drolet, and Lolitta Dandoy. The guest list also included former Olympic figure skater Joannie Rochette, singer Louis-Jean Cormier, television host Jean-Philippe Dion, journalist Marie-Claude Lortie, and Grand Prix promoter François Dumontier. The evening’s host, Sonia Benezra, punctuated the event with remarks focused on hope and collective commitment.

Ovarian Cancer Research at the Forefront

The funds raised will directly finance a research project led by Francis Rodier, Ph.D., at the Centre de recherche du CHUM. The project is described as highly promising in the fight against ovarian cancer, a disease that remains one of the most challenging to treat. Rodier’s work is part of a broader effort to accelerate the development of innovative therapies and improve outcomes for patients. The Bal de la Jonquille has long positioned itself as a bridge between the business, cultural, and political spheres, channeling resources toward the most impactful research initiatives in Quebec.

A Tradition of Hope and Impact

For over three decades, the Bal de la Jonquille has evolved into more than a glamorous social event; it is a key driver of cancer research funding in the province. The gala consistently attracts a cross-section of Quebec society, from corporate leaders to artists and policymakers, all united by a common cause. “Rêver seul inspire. Rêver ensemble transforme. Une ode à l’espoir!” the organizers declared, encapsulating the evening’s spirit. The event’s enduring relevance lies in its ability to mobilize substantial financial support while fostering a sense of collective purpose.

What Comes Next

The $3,175,000 raised will be directed to the CHUM Research Centre, where Rodier’s team will advance their ovarian cancer research. The project’s outcomes could have far-reaching implications for treatment protocols and patient survival rates. Organizers have not yet announced the date for the 34th edition, but the momentum from this year’s success is expected to carry forward. For those who wish to contribute, donations remain open through the event’s official channels.

The bottom line

• The 33rd Bal de la Jonquille raised $3.175 million for ovarian cancer research at the CHUM Research Centre.
• Nearly 600 guests attended, including major Quebec celebrities like Mariloup Wolfe and Laurence Leboeuf.
• Cancer affects two in five Quebecers; the gala has been a key fundraising event since 1994.
• Funds will support Francis Rodier’s promising ovarian cancer research project.
• The event blends philanthropy with high-profile social engagement, drawing from business, culture, and politics.