The NOHT-ÉSON’s Palliative Care Working Group is dedicated to addressing the universal experiences of death, dying, grief, loss, and caregiving by fostering a collaborative approach to care. Identified as a priority population in the initial submission to become an Ontario Health Team, this group has worked to build strong relationships among its members while embracing an Indigenous framework. By challenging conventional Western constructs and processes, the group has focused on creating a new way of working together, leading to significant learning and growth about Indigenous ways of knowing. These insights have enriched relationships both within the group and across participating organizations, with a shared commitment to improving the experience of Indigenous Peoples receiving palliative care.
As the NOHT-ÉSON evolves toward becoming a legislated entity, the Palliative Care Working Group continues to prioritize an Indigenous framework, supported by guidance from Indigenous advisors. A newly drafted Terms of Reference guides the group, ensuring that its work remains inclusive, culturally responsive, and aligned with its goal of enhancing the delivery of palliative care in Niagara. Through this approach, the group aims to foster a compassionate and equitable health and social care system that meets the diverse needs of all individuals and families facing end-of-life challenges.
Palliative Care Working Group
Carol Nagy
Hospice Niagara
Jenny Stranges
Quest Community Health Centre
Nadine Wallace
Contact Niagara for Children’s and Developmental Services
Lisa Bath
Niagara Region
Kathy Brown
Ontario Health atHome
Elizabeth Davis
Ontario Health atHome
Kathryn Bradshaw
Ontario Health atHome
David Ceglie
Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre
Katrin Conen
Niagara Health
Helmy Flus
Niagara Health
Jody Gowling
Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre
Marty Mako
Niagara Emergency Medical Services
Christine Pritchard
Indigenous Women’s Health Program – Niagara Chapter – Native Women Inc.
Deborah Jonathan
Indigenous Services Canada
Wendy Sturgeon
Niagara Chapter – Native Women Inc.
Sabrina Piluso
NOHT-ÉSON
Sue Shipley
Hospice Niagara
Patricia MacLaren
Patient/Client/Family/Caregiver Representative
Frank Ruberto
Niagara Medical Group Family Health Team
Shelly Cricenti
Quest Community Health Centre
Fran Geikie
Patient/Client/Family/Caregiver Representative
Lesley Anne Hirst
Ontario Health
Judith Knight
Patient/Client/Family/Caregiver Representative
Laura VanBerlo
Ontario Health
