OTTAWA, UNCEDED ALGONQUIN
TERRITORY, ON, May 8, 2024 /CNW/ - It takes a unique,
special kind of dedication to become a nurse. For the nurses in
First Nations and Inuit communities, it takes strength, resiliency,
expertise, and most importantly, heart. It takes an understanding
of the complex environment of northern nursing. And it takes a
lasting, genuine passion to serve the needs of Indigenous Peoples
while sharing in their distinct traditions, cultures, and
practices.
Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous
Services Canada, congratulated three nurses who embody these
significant qualities as the recipients of the 2024 Award of
Excellence in Nursing:
- Lindsay Iron, an Indigenous
nurse who persevered against adversity to realize her dream of
serving First Nations in Saskatchewan and her tribal council
communities: an achievement that is a source of pride and a
testament to her love for her people.
- Joe Grafe, an ISC-employed nurse who understands the
importance of being an active participant in Canada's response to generational trauma and
the severe health disparities faced by Indigenous Peoples in his
community health work.
- Anke Krug, a nurse with
experience in the territories who is passionate about advocating
for and helping Inuit youth in addition to her work to increase
accessibility to life saving healthcare equipment in Nunavut.
Each year, during National Nursing Week, this award is presented
to exceptional nurses providing invaluable healthcare to First
Nations and Inuit communities. Nurses selected to receive the award
deliver excellent care, support culturally safe health and healing
settings, advocate for the wellbeing of their clients, and embrace
community participation and events.
In doing so, many nurses in communities discover lifelong
connections, cultivate friendships and even find a second home.
This year's recipients are emboldening others with their commitment
to ensuring the health and wellbeing of Indigenous Peoples is not
only a piece, but a priority in our building of a healthy, unified
country.
Related products
Celebrating Indigenous Nurses During National Nursing Week
Associated links
- Award of Excellence in Nursing
- 2024 annual Award of Excellence in Nursing: call for
nominations
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SOURCE Indigenous Services Canada