Sep 26, 2024
This is an opinion column by Niagara Health Communications Specialist Michelle Pressé, originally published in the St. Catharines Standard, Niagara Falls Review and Welland Tribune.
“Not only did you help me during one of the worst times of my life, you aided me on my learning journey.”
“The Indigenous support team were wise, kind and always spoke with empathy for our family.”
“I’m extremely grateful for the smudging and the medicines I had no other access to.”
“They listened to our needs as we expressed our wishes and discussed what would be possible.”
“I’m so glad I met you.”
These are just a few of the kind words that Indigenous patients and their families have shared with Niagara Health’s Indigenous Health Services and Reconciliation (IHSR) team.
These heartfelt messages speak volumes to members of the six-member team who work to provide culturally safe and sensitive care to Indigenous patients and their families.