THE CHECKUP
www.northernlightshealthfoundation.ca/donate
Spring 2017
Fort McKay First Nation: Investing in Health Care
On Thursday February 23 rd , the Northern
Lights Health Foundation’s Gratitude
Campaign got a lot closer to its goal of $16
million dollars thanks to the Fort McKay
First Nation and family of companies. At
the Nation’s 30 th Anniversary Celebration, a
cheque for $550,000 was presented to the
Health Foundation and Melanie Antoine, chair
of the Health Foundation’s Board of Directors.
Fort McKay First Nation Group of Companies,
Barge Landing Lodge, Caribou Energy
Park, Dene Koe, First North Catering and
Hammerstone Products have all pledged their
commitment to improving health care in Wood
Buffalo. These six companies are not only
invested in the future and sustainability of the
region, they are invested in the health and
well-being of the people of Fort McKay.
Pictured: Chief Jim Boucher, Melanie Antoine, members of the Fort
McKay First Nation family of companies and NLHF board members
Melanie Antoine believes that companies
making the decision to pledge to the campaign
are really investing in their own businesses and people. “They are investing in their workers, their
families, their friends and their loved ones. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
In recognition of these generous donations, the Medicine Wheel room located on the 4 th floor of the
hospital, will be renamed in honour of Fort McKay Elder Margaret MacDonald who was one of the first
Aboriginal members of the Health Foundation’s Board of Directors. Margaret passed away in 2015
after a stay on the Continuing Care floor. The Medicine Wheel room is an important place for aboriginal
residents who, along with their community, friends, and family, can hold gatherings and spiritual
ceremonies right in the hospital.
Fort McKay First Nation is the first of five regional First Nations to make a pledge to the campaign.
Chief Jim Boucher says “I think it’s important that we all stand behind the hospital and support this
important campaign”.