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Kathy Loon, from Slate Falls First Nation, started working for the Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre (SLMHC) in June 2013 as the Traditional Healing, Medicine, Food and Supports Program Coordinator. Her role changed in 2015 to Traditional Programs Manager, and most recently, as of 2021, she is the Executive Lead for Indigenous Collaboration & Relations. She has almost 30 years of experience working for First Nations and Indigenous organizations/businesses in the areas of economic, business, and corporate development.

Kathy has been dedicated to developing and implementing a rich traditional program at SLMHC, which has included the Wiichi’iwewin (patient/client supports), Odabiidamagewin (governance and leadership), Andaaw’iwewin (traditional and ceremonial practices), Mashkiki (traditional medicines), and Miichim (traditional foods). She acts not only as a liaison but is also an advocate of preserving Anishinaabe practices in a health care system serving the diverse population in the Sioux Lookout region. Kathy’s key accomplishments include lifting off and supporting all of the elements of the traditional program here at SLMHC, managing the Cultural Safe Care program, sitting on various hospital committees/working groups, and representing SLMHC at regional and national events & committees.