The 34th annual Polar Plunge was held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 in support of Campbellford Memorial Hospital.
Approximately $40,000 was raised for the Campbellford Memorial Hospital as participants voluntarily jumped into the Trent River.
The Auxiliary to Campbellford Memorial Hospital organized the 34th Annual Polar Plunge, at the Lion’s Club Community Park.
For more than three decades, the Polar Plunge has brought together courageous participants, enthusiastic spectators, and generous donors in support of quality healthcare at Campbellford Memorial Hospital. Participants take an exhilarating icy dip into the Trent River, proving once again that while the water may be cold, the community spirit is anything but.
Each year welcomes new plungers alongside many returning participants; many of whom are inspired by the exceptional care they or their loved ones have received at CMH. All agree that strong community support is essential to maintaining high-quality healthcare for those who live in and visit the Trent Hills area.
This year’s fundraising goal is $25,000 was far surpassed by the generosity of Bruce and Betty Thompson who numerous times throughout the event challenged participants to go in to the frigid waters for a $1,000 donation.
In the end, the Thompson’s donated $14,000 for the cause.
“The Polar Plunge is important because it supports our hospital and brings the community together,” said Bruce Thompson to Today’s Northumberland shortly after the event had concluded.
“We need a new hospital, we need new equipment and this goes a long way to doing that. I’ve seen many a miracle happen in that hospital and it’s vital in our community.”
“The hospital is the fabric that binds our community together.”
Many plungers participated as part of teams, including the Trent Hills Thunder Hockey Team, Team Campbellford Memorial Hospital, Fleming College Paramedicine Team, Rotary International Student Exchange Team, Aspira Island Park, Campbellford Veterinary Services, Norwood Veterinary Services, Campbellford Legion, License to Chill, and Team Sno-hio, who travel from Ohio each winter to support the hospital they rely on during their summer stays in Trent Hills.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
