Physician's Appreciation Day in Akwesasne Celebrated!

Akwesasne celebrated its first official Physician's Appreciation Day on Wednesday, May 1 with a luncheon at the newly-renovated Akwesasne Medical Clinic, located in the Kanonhkwat'sheri:io Health Facility. Beautiful, locally-made gifts were presented to not only the five medical doctors, but also to the wholistic and traditional healthcare teams, as they play an integral part in the health and wellbeing of Akwesasronon.

Wholistic Health & Wellness Program Manager Amber Montour stated in her opening that, "today marks a monumental and unprecedented occasion as we come together for Akwesasne's first Physician's Appreciation Day. It is our responsibility to give respect to those who bring healing to our community. It is my pleasure to recognize our exemplary team of professionals who dedicate their time and skills to the creation of spaces specific to good health. I am grateful today and every day to work with a positive team that has such strong ties to the community."

The health care professionals honored during this luncheon include:

Dr. Horn, Dr. Saylor, Dr. Levac, Dr. Funnell, Dr. Torres, Dr. Dubuc, Dr. Dan, Janet Brant, Martine Pierre-Louis, Patrick Labrooy, Cecelia King, Della Adams, Eddie Gray, Andrew Francis, Reen Cook, Darren Bonaparte, the Community Health Program's diabetes team, the Community Health Program, Tsiionkwanonhso:te, Home Care/Home Support , Iakhihsohtha, Proxim Pharmacy, the Akwesasne Non-Insured Health Benefits program and the Akwesasne Mohawk Ambulance Unit., Proxim Pharmacy, the Akwesasne Non-Insured Health Benefits program and the Akwesasne Mohawk Ambulance Unit.

Tsi Snaihne District Chief Tobi Mitchell stated, "I would like to say niawenko:wa for not only my own personal medical treatment, but also for all the hard work, dedication and unseen work that is put into our community. The health and wellbeing of Akwesasne wouldn't be where it is today, or an example for other First Nations, without the trails you have blazed through our community." Fellow Tsi Snaihne District Chief April Adams-Phillips expressed similar sentiments, stating that "while we are always looking for ways to advance the quality of care for Akwesasronon, we are fortunate to have an array of talented physicians, nurses, personal support workers, wholistic healers and administrative staff dedicated to improving the lives of our community members. Their efforts and commitment do not go unnoticed!"

On behalf of the entire Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, we would like to extend our utmost appreciation for all of the individuals who contribute to the wellbeing of our community.