A public health nurse and epidemiologist, he passionately speaks out about the inequities Indigenous peoples, particularly Métis individuals, face within the healthcare system. He advocates for the inclusion of Métis voices in Indigenous healthcare discussions and emphasizes the importance of integrating traditional Indigenous healing practices alongside conventional treatments.

Quote; “Educating and helping typical healthcare systems in Canada create space for us within them, like allowing us to use our traditional medicines.” 

An MNO citizen, who lost her mother to breast cancer, discovered she was a carrier of the BRCA2 gene, which significantly increases the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers. Faced with this knowledge, Jordyn made the difficult decision to undergo a bilateral mastectomy to reduce her own risk of breast cancer. She opens up about the emotional and physical challenges she faced both leading up to and after the surgery, as well as the invaluable support she received from her elders and community throughout her healing process.

Quote; “It’s really impactful that my elders always impact me and give me such knowledge, and that now my story is impacting them.” 

An MNO citizen who triumphed over breast cancer, she underscores the critical importance of cancer screening and reflects on her own experience accessing quality care. She also acknowledges the challenges faced by many Métis people living in northern and rural communities, who often lack the same level of healthcare access and resources.

Quote; “Having a support system in place is critically, critically important.’” 

A MNBC citizen, diagnosed 14 years ago with multiple myeloma, shares her powerful journey of survival. From enduring years of chemotherapy to embracing traditional Indigenous medicine, she recounts not only her battle with cancer but also the unique challenges and inequities she has faced as an Indigenous woman along the way.

Quote; “People who live with cancer understand acutely loss. They understand what it means to live with uncertainty, and they also understand what impermanence means. When you understand what impermanence means, you see the world in a different way. You see beauty in a different way.” 

A Métis citizen who spent years caring for her late father, who tragically lost his battle with cancer. She reflects on his kind, strong, and vibrant personality. As she honors his memory, she also highlights the lack of support they faced, not only from the healthcare system, but from the government.

A family reflects on their cherished memories with their late father and separated spouse, Jamie Charko, who made the difficult decision to choose M.A.I.D. to end his relentless and courageous battle with cancer. As they honour his journey, they express deep concerns about the healthcare system, particularly the months they spent waiting for critical results, feeling more could have been done during that time.