As part of his official trip to Lebanon Admiral Alain Coldefy, President of the Association of Members of the French Legion of Honour, visited Hôtel-Dieu de France in Beirut, accompanied by several members of the association’s executive board and the President of the association in Lebanon, Ambassador Khalil Karam.

The delegation was welcomed by Rev. Prof. Salim Daccache, S.J., and Mr. Nassib Nasr, Director General of the HDF-USJ Network, along with several hospital directors.

The visit was an opportunity to reaffirm the depth of the historic ties between Lebanon and France, and to discuss ways to further strengthen scientific and humanitarian cooperation between the two institutions. It also highlighted the vital role played by the Association of Members of the French Legion of Honour in fostering friendship and collaboration between the two nations, and in supporting joint initiatives in the fields of medicine, education, and public service.

On the occasion of the international Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Day, organized by the European Gynecological Cancer Advocacy Group, the Women’s Cancer Center at Hôtel-Dieu de France had the honor of receiving a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of its continuous commitment to the fight against gynecological and breast cancers in Lebanon.

This certificate highlights the Center’s active role in supporting patients and promoting preventive and educational messages, reflecting its ongoing dedication to improving women’s health and engaging the community in raising awareness about these diseases.

Hôtel-Dieu de France officially inaugurated its new cafeteria, commemorating fifty years of continuous collaboration with IRAP (Institute of Audio-Phonetic Rehabilitation).

The celebration began with a performance by IRAP students, followed by the screening of a video retracing the institute’s journey within Hôtel-Dieu de France, highlighting a path defined by inclusion, cultural richness, and unwavering dedication.

In his address, Mr. Nassib Nasr, Director General of the Hôtel-Dieu de France Hospital Network – Saint Joseph University, emphasized that the new space, featuring a welcoming garden and modern facilities, extends the spirit of collaboration between the two institutions for half a century. He recalled the historical role of the cafeteria as a place for pause and dialogue, which has preserved its mission even during the most challenging times.

Reverend Father Professor Salim Daccache S.J., Chairman of the Board of Hôtel-Dieu de France and Rector of Saint Joseph University, highlighted the symbolic significance of the event. More than a simple inauguration, it stands as a testament to the shared commitment to care, education, and human dignity. He praised IRAP for its dedication to the hearing-impaired and those with communication difficulties, emphasizing that health and education are inseparable.

Ms. Nicole Helou, Director of IRAP, paid tribute to the founders Janine Safa and Souad Ballita, as well as the "Ladies Friends," whose dedication ensured the project’s creation and continuity. She stressed that the cafeteria is much more than a dining space: it is a place of listening, warmth, and solidarity, also supporting the institute’s educational and therapeutic programs.

The inauguration concluded with a moving testimonial and a musical performance by Philippe Misk, a long-time collaborator, celebrating half a century of friendship and loyalty between Hôtel-Dieu de France and IRAP.

As part of its ongoing commitment to its employees and their families, Hôtel-Dieu de France was pleased to renew its school kit distribution initiative for the year 2025.

As it does every year at the start of the new school year, Hôtel-Dieu de France offered complete school supply kits to the children of its employees and those of its Hospital Network.

The aim of this initiative was to support families by helping them prepare for the new school year, while reaffirming the institution's desire to remain close to its staff.

Hôtel-Dieu de France wishes everyone an excellent start to the new school year!