Story 9: Remember When... A Fallen Tree Was Reborn as Charcuterie Boards?

Blog banner for story 9: "a fallen tree was reborn as chacuterie boards." collage of pictures with a man next to a tree, a baby and the QCH logo in the middle.

Remember When... A Fallen Tree Was Reborn as Charcuterie Boards

Disastrous Derecho Storm

The 2022 derecho storm brought down a 150-year-old oak tree at the west entrance of Queensway Carleton Hospital. A loss for the hospital turned into an opportunity for local Ottawa carpenter Tim Holland.

Tim was at QCH for the birth of his second daughter when he noticed the fallen tree. Inspired, he reached out to the hospital on social media with an idea: salvaging portions of the oak to give it a new life.

Craftsmanship & Community

With QCH’s support, Tim transformed the wood into hundreds of one-of-a-kind, handcrafted charcuterie boards. The charcuterie boards were listed as part of the 2022 Hope Returns Auction, raising $15,000.

Carry a piece of history home

There are still more boards available if you’re looking for a meaningful gift or a treat for yourself. Proceeds go to the QCH Foundation and support patient care.

CHECK OUT the Charcuterie Boards

Call for Stories

We’re gathering 50 stories to count down to QCH’s 50th anniversary in October 2026. Share your QCH story with us; we want to hear about your QCH experiences and moments that stand out in your mind.