The First Meagan's HUG
- Meagan Bebenek Foundation
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
On May 9th, 2026, Meagan Bebenek Foundation (MBF) will celebrate its 25th annual signature event, the HUG.
With this milestone taking place brings reflection on our growth over the last 25 years. What began with one mother’s vision to provide hope to children and families has become an organization that has touched thousands of lives and raised millions in paediataric brain tumour research. These efforts have helped drive breakthroughs that has improved the quality of life for children diagnosed with brain tumours around the world.
Meagan Bebenek was just five years old when she died from an aggressive and malignant brain tumour called Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG).
Following Meagan’s passing in June 2001, her mother, Denise, felt a strong calling to create a sense of community and hope for families facing a similar loss. That June day, leaving Meagan at SickKids, Denise envisioned a real yet symbolic “hug” of the hospital, sending a message to all within that they are not alone. An embrace around the enormous hospital, for the many children, and for families like her own. This vision became Meagan's HUG.
Some of the people who will be attending this 25th annual Walk & HUG have been participating in the event since its inception.
"After Meagan passed away, Denise invited a small group of people to her home and spoke passionately about her experience leaving SickKids that day," says Mary French. “From that gathering, a core group of approximately a dozen people formed a working committee with the intent of bringing Denise's vision to life."
"On the morning of Mother’s Day 2002, the day of the inaugural walk, participants were met with pouring rain and howling winds. Despite the challenging weather, the turnout in the first year was terrific," continues Mary. "Together, participants formed the very first human hug around SickKids and raised nearly $100,000 for paediatric brain tumour research."
Pat Vomvas, too, has attended every single Walk & HUG.
"For the last 25 years we have been participating in Meagan's Walk and Hug," says Pat.
"On the day of the first walk we all experienced cold, rainy and windy weather conditions which we endured with incredible determination; nothing would have stopped us from completing the 5 kilometre walk from Ontario Place to SickKids. Our dear son Niko was diagnosed with a brain tumour at age 7. He passed away on March 28, 1999 at age 15. We walk inspired by the memory of Niko, the memory of all the heroes who fought and the children who continue to fight the battle against brain tumours. "
In the last 25 years, we’ve evolved and witnessed remarkable change. What has never wavered, however, is our drive to make a difference for the children and families who need it most. And though we've seen incredible research breakthroughs, there is still so much we don't know about the 120+ tumours that affect children. Our work is far from over.
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