When we think of the Telethon, we first imagine children, families, moving testimonies, and powerful acts of solidarity. But behind the scenes, year after year, there are also unsung artists—familiar voices that carry the emotion... and the message of hope. Among them, one faithful backup singer has been devoted to this mission for nearly 15 years.
A first Téléthon… that changed everything
“I think my first Téléthon was in the spring of 2010. I had just wrapped up my first season on En direct de l’univers, and Marco Tessier, the conductor, asked me to join the band.” She said yes right away—driven by a love of singing, the joy of working with colleagues she admires… and, she admits with a laugh, a little ambition. “I love my job!” What she didn’t know was that this project would change her forever.
From a contract to a calling
At first, she soaked in the atmosphere—the generosity, the performances by artists lending their voices to the cause. At the time, she wasn’t a mother yet. She understood the importance of the mission, but didn’t fully feel it. Then the years went by. The stories from families moved her deeply. The illness, the children’s faces, the real impact of every donation… it all became personal. In 2015, she became a mother. “My son was born just before the Téléthon. I watched it from home. And that’s when I truly understood.”
A moment etched forever
Out of all the memories, the 2018 edition remains unforgettable. Kevin Bazinet sang Je vais gagner with little Audrey Gélinas. A video showed them in the studio, then together on stage. Audrey, who was battling multiple cancers, left a lasting impression. “To see her so strong… it was overwhelming. I cried through three songs.” Audrey passed away shortly afterward. “She marked me for life.”
A one-of-a-kind project
As a professional chorister, she takes part in countless projects. But the Téléthon, she says, is different. Every year, she comes back. Because beyond the music, it’s about being there. For the children. For hope. “This Téléthon must go on forever.”
The Téléthon, in three words
To close, she picks three words that sum up what the Téléthon means to her: Heart, because it’s what connects everyone—in every gesture, every word, every song. Dedication, to honour the tireless efforts of teams, volunteers, and artists. Generosity, above all. That of the people of Quebec, who show up year after year. “Your donations change lives. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
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