More Than A Liaison

The Oxford dictionary defines a Liaison as "communication or cooperation which facilitates a close working relationship between people or organizations". Raelynn Lamouche and Shelly Logan are more than Liaisons or Indigenous Wellness Co-Ordinators at GPRH. They are patient and family advocates that enable patients to be involved members of their own healthcare teams. In a time of difficulty, uncertainty and fear they provide a quiet strength, courage and comfort. They are also teachers to the nursing staff in the hospital, sharing their cultural knowledge and the history of the Indigenous peoples of Treaty 8, the Metis people and the Inuit people of the North Region. The sharing and teaching they provide help breakdown barriers that can get in the way of providing holistic care that is patient and family centered, it fosters better understanding and communication. They are integral members of the healthcare team as they assist Indigenous patients navigate the healthcare system and promote positive engagements between everyone within the hospital to health centres in rural areas and beyond. It is an honour and pleasure to work with them, learn from them and witness their powerful work.