Ahead of the groundbreaking for the new Fanscy Family Hospital, a sacred fire ceremony blessed the future site on Tuesday morning.
Traditional Knowledge Keeper Elder Mike Hopkins and Traditional Helper Leon Shipman led the ceremony at the corner of Cabana Road East and County Road 9. It brought together community and project partners and hospital leadership to honour the land's original stewards, acknowledge its history, and seek blessings for the future hospital.
Windsor Regional Hospital says the ceremony builds on an ongoing commitment to strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities and incorporate Indigenous perspectives in the hospital's planning and development.
"We are grateful to the Indigenous leaders who shared their teachings and guidance today and honoured to work alongside First Nations Communities and Indigenous partners throughout the planning process to ensure a culturally safe and welcoming environment at Windsor Regional Hospital," said Windsor Regional Hospital President and CEO Kristin Kennedy.
A sacred fire was lit to reflect on the importance of building a hospital that is inclusive and respectful of Indigenous cultures and communities.
It was a moment to reflect, respect, and reconcile before construction on the new hospital starts.
The Fanscy Family Hospital will include an Indigenous healing space located at the front of the building, complete with an outdoor garden and storage for traditional medicine supplies. It'll be a place for traditional ceremonies, including smudging and meetings with family, caregivers, and staff.
