Recently, the family
and friends of
the late Margaret
MacDonald
gathered to cut
the ribbon for the
re-naming of the
Medicine Wheel
Room located on
the Continuing Care
floor of the Northern
Lights Regional
Health Centre.
This airy space
has long been a
place dedicated
to contemplation,
spiritual renewal, and celebration. During a prayer, drumming
and smudge service, the room was rededicated to honor Fort
McKay elder, Margaret Marie MacDonald.
Northern Lights Health Centre represents the alignment and
continuous interaction of the physical, emotional, mental and
spiritual health for patients, residents and families in our care.
The Fort McKay First Nation also commissioned a painting
for the occasion from renowned artist, and Margaret’s
son, Frederick R. McDonald. The painting was unveiled
at the dedication ceremony. In addition, four drums were
commissioned from Nicholas Giant and were dedicated to
the room.
The Northern Lights Health Foundation Board of Directors
and staff were on hand to pay their respects and
acknowledge Margaret’s contributions.
The naming of the room was made possible through the
Chief and Council of the Fort McKay First Nation who wished
to recognize Margaret for her outstanding contributions to
Fort McKay and the larger Wood Buffalo region. She was
instrumental in community development in Fort McKay and
was a strong supporter of local and regional organizations,
events, and charities. The naming was included as part of
the Nations commitment to the Health Foundation’s Gratitude
Campaign.
An astute businesswoman and entrepreneur, Margaret
was also the first Aboriginal member of the Northern Lights
Regional Health Authority Board where she provided
governance in support of health care programs and services.
Margaret’s legacy of
compassion and caring
and supporting health
programs beyond the
hospital setting has
endured to this day.
Painting of Margaret MacDonald by Frederick R. McDonald
Alberta Health Services
(AHS) recognizes
facilities and services on
traditional Indigenous
territories and provides
accessible, appropriate
health services for First
Nations, Metis and Inuit
people in Alberta. The
Margaret MacDonald
Medicine Wheel at the
Nicholas Giant with the drums he created
for the Margaret MacDonald Medicine
Wheel Room
THE NORTHERN LIGHTS HEALTH FOUNDATION
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