The Palliative Care Team at the Red Lake Hospital Thank You

The Palliative Care Team at the Red Lake Hospital would like to thank all the families that attended the 6th Annual Memorial Service on July 23, 2015 at the Red Lake Casino. This event was a private affair where invitations were sent to the next of kin of those who passed away between May 1, 2014 and April 30, 2015. The goal of the service was to honor those who passed away and help family members with their grief. The service included honor songs by the Red Lake Drum group (Willie Strong), supper prepared by the Red Lake Casino, prayers by Father Jerry and Rev. George Ross, Traditional Ceremony with tobacco ties by Murphy Thomas, candle lighting ceremony, and families were presented with a special gift made by the hospital staff (both Tribal and IHS). Families were also given the opportunity to share a story or poem.

The Palliative Care Team would like to thank the Red Lake Tribal Council for their generous financial support. Thanks to the employees of the Red Lake Casino who did a wonderful job with the arrangements, set up, and assisting with the service. Thanks to the Red Lake singers and Sonny Johnson for their beautiful songs. Thanks to Murphy Thomas, Father Jerry and Rev. George Ross for their support and words of encouragement. Thanks to Chief Drouillard for delivering wood for the fire used for the tobacco ties and thanks to all who helped make the gifts.

This year, there were over 120 people in attendance and some of the comments were, "That we are not alone in our grief, we can lean on others when times are hard" and "Hearing from Father Jerry, Reverend George, and Murphy" and "It's a great feeling to see loved one recognized again". The palliative care team was much honored to host this event.

Miigwetch,

The Palliative Care Team: Mary Ann Cook, Rosie Morgan, Fred Desjarlait, Teresa Grund, Angelina Rustand, and Charmaine Branchaud.