January - March, 2008

Along the Coast to Labrador
Corporate Headquarters: Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada A0P 1C0
Smoke-Free Properties: a Commitment to Healthy People and Healthy Communities
On January 1, 2008, Labrador-Grenfell Health became the first regional health authority in Newfoundland and Labrador to have its owned and operated properties designated smoke-free. Currently all regional health authorities prohibit smoking inside facilities and many enforce perimeter bans (i.e., smoking is prohibited within certain distances of entrances, as indicated by a blue line). Now, in addition, like many other health authorities across Canada, Labrador-Grenfell Health has banned smoking right to the end of its property lines. Over the next year, the policy will also be phased in at long-term care facilities in the region. The new policy is a vital component of Labrador-Grenfell Healths vision of healthy people living in healthy communities. Labrador-Grenfell Health is committed to providing a smoke-free environment for its clients, employees and communities by treating tobacco addiction; protecting all employees, physicians, volunteers, students, patients, visitors and the general public from tobacco smoke on Labrador-Grenfell Health property;
Ellen Newhook (left) from Labrador West joins Annette Parsons, Community Health Educator, in cutting the cake at the Smoke-Free Properties official launch celebration at the Captain William Jackman Memorial Hospital in early January.

Whats Inside?

New Years Babies.2 Foundation Update.3 Professional Development.4 Social Work Week.7 Founders Day.8 Service Awards.9 Autism Spectrum.10 Focus on Staff.11 Around the Region.12 From the Homes.14 Retirements.16 Comings and Goings.19
supporting employees in adopting a healthy lifestyle and providing leadership in tobacco reduction initiatives. Labrador-Grenfell Health thanks the members of the multidisciplinary Smoke-Free Task Team who were involved in the successful development and implementation of its smoke-free policy. Moreover, the health authority thanks all clients, staff and visitors for their support - your cooperation with the smoke-free policy is greatly appreciated. If you would like more information on how to quit smoking, please speak with your local health care provider (Physician, Health Educator, Public Health Nurse, Employee Health Nurse, Mental Health/Addictions Counselor, etc.) or call the Smokers Helpline at 1-800-363-5864.
ALONG THE COAST TO LABRADOR - JANUARY-MARCH, 2008, PAGE 2
LABRADOR-GRENFELL HEALTH WELCOMES NEW YEARS BABIES
Captain William Jackman Memorial Hospital Charles S. Curtis Memorial Hospital
Baby Danika Betty Tatchell was born on January 3, 2008 at 5:54 p.m., weighing 6lbs 10oz. Her parents are Albert Tatchell and Melina Quinlan of Petawawa, ON. The family is shown here with Dr. Sarada Padalugu, Obstetrician/Gynecologist, who on behalf of the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association, presented a car seat donated by the St. Johns East Wal-Mart. Baby Taya ORielly-Fitzpatrick was born on January 3, 2008 at 12:58 a.m., weighing 6lbs 3oz. Her parents are Sue Ellen ORielly and Evan Fitzpatrick of Labrador City. Shown here, Hospital Auxiliary President, Sharon Kean (left) presents an engraved pewter cup on behalf of the Auxiliary membership. In addition, on behalf of the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association, an infant car seat was presented that had been donated by the Labrador City Wal-Mart.

Labrador Health Centre

Baby Sierra Constance Tammy Wolfrey was born at 7:40 a.m. on January 1, 2008, weighing 8lb 7oz. Her parents are Shelly Wolfrey and Paul Allen of Rigolet. Sierra was also presented with an infant car seat from the Newfoundland and Labr-ador Medical Association, don-ated by Wal-Mart. She is shown here with her mom Shelly.
For additional details on the infant car seat initiative, please see the NLMA news release at www.nlma.nl.ca/media/news_releases/news_release_54.htm.

TRIVIA

This issue: Q: In 1949, the IGA took possession of a new 48-foot hospital ship and renamed it the Albert T. Gould. What was the ships original name? Last issue: Q: Who was William Adams Delano? A: William Adams Delano was a friend and supporter of Dr. Grenfell. He was also the architect who designed the Grenfell Hospital in St. Anthony in 1926. He was a Professor of Design at Columbia University School of Architecture (Source: Among the Deep Sea Fishers July 1927 edition). Thank you to Alywn Sansford and Dr. Brian D. Powell for submitting correct responses.
ALONG THE COAST TO LABRADOR JANUARY-MARCH, 2008, PAGE 3

FOUNDATION UPDATE

A New Mattress Vacuum Stretcher for Charlottetown Community Clinic
Thanks to community fundraising and matching funds through the Grenfell Foundation, the Charlottetown Community Clinic now has a new mattress vacuum stretcher. This type of stretcher is used to mobilize a patient who has the potential of serious spinal cord injury. This type of stretcher is also more comfortable to lie on then a back board. The staff at the clinic would like to thank everyone who helped in any way to make the purchase of this valuable piece of equipment possible.
Charlottetown Clinic Staff illustrate their new mattress vacuum stretcher (front, lying): Sherry Turnbull; (back, l-r): Marilyn Kippenhuck, Regional Nurse II; Marilyn Haynes, Cherri-Lee Campbell- Oram, Regional Nurse I; Carl Kippenhuck, Maintenance Repairer and Darryl Turnbull, Maintenance Repairer.
Founders Day Ecumenical Service: Celebrating the life of Sir Wilfred Grenfell
As part of the Founders Day events held during the last week of February each year, the Annual Ecumenical Service was held on February 24, 2008. This year, for the first time in many years, the St. Anthony Ministerial Committee, in conjunction with the Grenfell Foundation, decided to host the events at the various churches in the area, on a rotational basis, beginning with the Bethel Pentecostal Church in St. Anthony. Participants at the service were delighted to welcome Guest Speaker Pastor Paul Grimes, a former Pastor who over the past 20 years had lived in Charlottetown, Happy Valley-Goose Bay and St. Anthony. He spoke of the life and works of Dr. Grenfell, as well as his connections to the region. During his sermon, he highlighted the commitment of Dr. Grenfell and those who followed, in maintaining a high standard of health care in this region. The service was well attended with approximately 150 people participating. The Grenfell Foundation Organizers and presenters at this years Ecumenical Service included (front, l-r): Rev. John thanks everyone who help make this years annual McGonigle, Pastor Paul Grimes, Major Raymond Janes and Father Edmond Camacho; (back, l-r): Gary Newell (Foundation Coordinator), Barbara Molgaard Blake (COO-South and VP ecumenical service a success.

People and Information Management, Rev. Jean Brenton-Hickman, Pastor Norman Joy and Pastor Craig Gaulton.

Thank You

The Grenfell Foundation thanks the Bethel Pentecostal Church for its recent contribution of $200. The donation was made at the recent Founders Day Dinner in St. Anthony, where Pastor Norman Joy (left) presented a cheque on behalf of his congregation to Wilfred Rumbolt, Foundation Chair (South Chapter).
ALONG THE COAST TO LABRADOR JANUARY-MARCH, 2008, PAGE 4

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Medevac Workshop
Labrador Health Center staff recently completed the annual Medevac Workshop, held on January 2830, 2008. This year, 20 participants were in attendance, including Physicians, Registered Nurses, Nursing Students, Medical Students and Paramedics. The threeday course consisted of lectures, aircraft review and equipment review. On the third day of the workshop, students applied their new skills in a mock medevac exercise. All participants took part in staged medevacswhich were taped and replayed in the afternoon, providing all participants an opportunity to review and critique the scenarios. This was a great learning experience for all. During the course, participants also focused on outdoor survival skills, a great asset to anyone traveling along the coast. This was led by Dr. Michael Jong, Sitting outside their newly constructed winter shelter are (l-r): Dr. Dennis Rashleigh, Dr. Mark along with great resource people from 5 Wing Goose Porter, Carol O'Brien (RN), Tracey Messier (RN), Sheldon Bussey (RN) and Dr. Karin Iny. Bay and Triple 4 Rescue Squadron, stationed in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. All students participated in a challenge of building survival shelters and lighting a signal fire. This day was concluded by a great meal prepared by Ruth Cull and Hazel Hobbs. It was a beautiful ending to a wonderful day in the great outdoors. Thank-you to all staff who helped out with this course - it was greatly appreciated. Cathy Fewer RNENCc, Emergency Coordinator Labrador Health Center
Parent Capacity Assessment
On January 16 and 17, 2008, Child Youth and Family Services Social Workers and Managers in the service area of Child Protection attended a workshop on Parent Capacity Assessment, facilitated by Mr. Robert Seymour Wright from Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia. The two-day workshop was held in Happy Valley-Goose Bay and drew approximately 35 participants from all areas of the region. The feedback was very positive and the participants stated it was a very informative and enjoyable experience. A special thank you to the presenter and all those who attended. Nadine Genge, Regional Learning Facilitator, CYFS

LifePak 12Training

Marilyn Kippenhuck, Regional Nurse II from Charlottetown, recently traveled to clinics along the coast to hold LifePak 12 defibrillator/monitor training with her colleagues in the area. Thank you, Marilyn, for sharing your knowledge and skills.
Shown here during the training session in Black Tickle are (l-r): Charles Ash, Regional Nurse II; Marilyn Kippenhuck and Tim Coombs, Maintenance Repairer/Emergency Medical Responder.
ALONG THE COAST TO LABRADOR JANUARY-MARCH, 2008, PAGE 5

Respectful Workplace

Employees in Labrador West were pleased to welcome presenter Gerry Dooley on March 18 and 19, 2008, for two full-day presentations on Respectful Workplace. Mr. Dooley presented in an interactive and informative way that opened many eyes to each persons own personal contribution to the workplace. With his years of experience, likeable personality and use of humor throughout the day, it was a very enjoyable session for everyone. Staffs participating in each session were asked to list what is needed for a respectful workplace. Some of their responses included: honesty, communication, tactfulness, fairness, acceptance, commitment, humility, understanding and appreciation. The participants extend their thanks to Mr. Dooley and the Employee Development, Training and Health Department for providing this training opportunity.
Mr. Gerry Dooley delivers a presentation on Respectful Workplace, held at the Captain William Jackman Memorial Hospital in Labrador West.
OPERATION TOOTH DEEMED A SUCCESS
As part of the pediatric waitlist management strategy, our team was recently involved in the planning and delivery of pediatric dental services in the Operating Room at the Labrador Health Centre (LHC). Through correspondence with the Janeway Dental Department, Provincial Wait Time Coordinator, and staff here at LHC, we were successful in completing this pilot project. During the week of January 21 to 25, 2008 we booked 40 pediatric patients and completed 95% (38) of these cases. A team consisting of one Dentist, one Anesthetist, two Operating Room nurses and two Post-Op Recovery Room Nurses came to Happy Valley-Goose Bay to assist in carrying out this project. Overall, this project was a very positive one. As staff in the Operating Room here, we feel that this was a great learning experience. The team from the Janeway brought with them a wealth of skill and knowledge. The Operating Room Staff at the LHC express their satisfaction with this pilot project and acknowledge the teamwork that was required to carry this initiative forward. Considering its success, we sincerely hope that we can continue to work on ways to improve access and decrease wait times for the pediatric dental clients in our region. For more information on Operation Tooth, visit www.releases.gov.nl.ca/releases/2008/health/0212n02.htm. Tracey Winters RN CPN(c), Operating Room Coordinator Labrador Health Center

This issue: Q: When and where was this hospital built? What was its connection to the Grenfell Mission? Last issue: Q: Where was the Mission Garden located? Who are the gentlemen shown in this photograph? A: The Mission Gardens were located on what is now known as Tucker's Lane, near the area where Beattie Simms and Jeanette Hostetter's homes are located. In this photo, Mr. James Tucker Sr. checks his cabbage crop, as Dr. Grenfell looks on. Thank you to Dr. John Cronhelm and Alwyn Sansford for submitting correct responses. Correction from August-October 2007 issue:
The building in this picture is the first Yale School in Northwest River and not the Junior Dormitory, as we had originally stated. Thank you to Ronald K. Watts of Northwest River, Labrador, for noting this error.
ALONG THE COAST TO LABRADOR JANUARY-MARCH, 2008, PAGE 7
SOCIAL WORK WEEK, MARCH 1014, 2008 HUMAN RIGHTS IN A DIVERSE COMMUNITY

St. Anthony

On Wednesday, March 12, 2008, Social Workers in St. Anthony hosted an Open House near the Curtis Hospital Cafeteria. The Social Workers and students in attendance treated their colleagues to cake, cookies, food trays and refreshments, in addition to an attractive display board with information on a wide array of topics. The Open House also provided an opportunity to highlight an innovative new program launched this year - the Social Work Week Youth Ambassador Program. This exciting venture provided an opportunity to enhance public exposure and understanding of the Social Work profession by reaching out to local youth. This year, the organization welcomed three Ambassadors - Jessica Taylor, Caitlin Bock and Neil Colbourne, students at Harriot Curtis Collegiate in St. Anthony. The Youth Ambassadors were present at the Open House, and also had an opportunity to meet with various Social Workers and other healthcare professionals in the area throughout Social Work Week. In addition to these events, an employee Social Work Week Trivia Contest was held. Special thanks are extended to this years Social Work Week coordinators, Nadine Calloway, Social Worker at the John M. Gray Centre and Philip Patey, Social Work Student, Child, Youth & Family Services, St. Anthony.
Social Workers and students from various parts of the region participated in the Social Work Week Open House in St. Anthony. Standing, (l-r): Michele Shears Rumbolt, Social Worker, St. Anthony; Natalie HopkinsAndrews, Social Worker, Marys Harbour; Denise Cooper, Social Worker, Hopedale; Deanne Costello, Regional Director of Mental Health and Addictions, St. Anthony; Tina Coombs, Addictions Counselor, St. Anthony; Nadine Calloway, Social Worker, St. Anthony; Philip Patey, Social Work Student, St. Anthony; Elaine Hillier, Social Worker, St. Anthony; Bev Patey, Social Worker, St. Anthony and Norma Myers, Social Worker. Kneeling,( l-r): Amanda Collier, Social Worker, Happy ValleyGoose Bay; Nista Simms, Social Worker, Flowers Cove; Blenda Dredge, Regional Director, Therapeutic Intervention & Rehabilitation Services and Youth Ambassadors Caitlin Bock, Neil Colbourne and Jessica Taylor.

Receiving 20, 25, 30 and 35 year awards and retirement certificates were: (Back row, l-r): Eric Ash, Grenfell Pilgrim, Frank Kean, Ernest Cull, Barry Pynn, Sharon Brushett-Saunders, Randy Cull, Oscar Colbourne and Beattie Simms. Middle row (l-r): Carol Colbourne, Lillian Larkin, Eileen Penney, Shirley Best, Cora Snow, Sandra Pink, Bonnie Pelley, Priscilla Mitchelmore, Wanda Pilgrim, Elizabeth Colbourne, Carol Roberts and Judy Colbourne. Front row (l-r): Jane Belbin (Forteau), Betty Flynn (Forteau), Millicent Tucker, Agnes Patey and Selma Strangemore.
ALONG THE COAST TO LABRADOR JANUARY-MARCH, 2008, PAGE 9

SERVICE AWARDS

5 Years Vanessa Bartlett Emily Campbell Jeanette Pilgrim Triffena Roberts Victoria Reardon-Kearney 10 Years Ivy Abbott Ivy Simms 15 Years Elaine Hillier Elizabeth Hicks Twenty Years Shona Caines Frank Kean Twenty-Five Years Oscar Colbourne Diane Porter Thirty Years Eric Ash Elizabeth Colbourne Carol Roberts Thirty-Five Years Lillian Larkin Certificates of Service Jane Belbin Agnes Patey Millicent Tucker
Receiving 5, 10 and 15 year awards at the Social in St. Anthony were (l-r): Jeanette Pilgrim, Vanessa Bartlett, Nadine Calloway, Doris Hancock, Ivy Simms, Barbara Molgaard Blake and Dr. Ravi Vatturi.
Norma Myers Dorothy Short
Greta Payne Dr. Ravi Vatturi
Joanne Bridle Margaret Rossiter
Nadine Calloway Beverly Snow

Doris Hancock

Helen Penney

Michele Hodder

Barbara Molgaard Blake Chesley Rowsell Glenda Normore

Janet Cox

Melanie Humby
Marjorie Field Marie Troy
Geraldine Taylor Randy Cull
Faye Chaulk Eileen Penney

Barry Pynn Joe Wissler

Wanda Pilgrim Beattie Simms
Bonnie Pelley Marilyn Powell Sharon Brushett Saunders

Sandra Pink

Carol Colbourne Sheila Genge
Donald Decker Shirley Best
Cynthia Best Judy Colbourne
Mildred Blake Ernest Cull

Rachel Parrill

Joyce Pilgrim

Priscilla Mitchelmore

Cora Snow
Sheila Genge David Tucker Betty Flynn
Selma Strangemore Donald Decker
Kenneth Boyd Grenfell Pilgrim

Brenda Way Joyce Pilgrim

ALONG THE COAST TO LABRADOR JANUARY-MARCH, 2008, PAGE 10
WHAT IS AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder that affects a childs ability to communicate, understand language, play, and relate to others. ASD represents a distinct category of developmental disabilities that share many of the same characteristics. The different diagnostic terms that fall within the broad meaning of ASD include: Autistic Disorder, Aspergers Disorder, Retts Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). Information from the National Institute of Mental Health and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that between two and six per 1,000 children (from one in 500 to one in 150) has some form of autism/PDD. These disorders are four times more common in boys than girls. Diagnosing an ASD usually requires the input of a developmental pediatrician, speech-language pathologist, child psychologist and occupational therapist. The diagnosis is made on the basis of observations, parent reports, language testing and cognitive testing. The six areas targeted during assessment include verbal and nonverbal communication, social relatedness, cognition, play and behavior. Symptoms of ASD include a wide range of developmental differences. The DSM-III and IV describe the criteria for this diagnosis. Numerous Red Flags have been identified and include the following characteristics: COMMUNICATION RED FLAGS Late talking or echolalia (repeating words or phrases in place of normal language) Not responsive to verbal cues; acts as if deaf Difficulty in expressing needs; uses gestures or pointing instead of words Poor comprehension of language SOCIAL RED FLAGS Little or no eye contact Difficulty socializing with other children Sustained odd play; no functional play, but uses objects in a repetitive manner (e.g., lining up, stacking) Prefers to be alone; aloof manner May not want to be held or cuddled BEHAVIOURAL RED FLAGS Insistence on sameness; resists changes in routine No real fear of dangers Toe walking Hand or arm flapping Apparent insensitivity to pain Noticeable physical over-activity or extreme under-activity Tantrums displays extreme distress for no apparent reason Sensory integrative issues (hyper/hyposensitivities to taste, touch, sound, sight, etc.) Some of these symptoms can be detected as early as 18-24 months, although most children are diagnosed around age three. Parents who are concerned about their childrens development should avail of local services from speech-language pathology, occupational therapy and child management specialists for initial assessment. If there are concerns about ASD, these professionals will make the appropriate referral to the local Child Development Team for appropriate assessment. Autism Spectrum Disorders can be diagnosed at the Charles S. Curtis Memorial Hospital in St. Anthony and the Janeway Child Health and Rehabilitation Centre in St. Johns. If you have any questions or concerns about your child, please refer to your local Speech-Language Pathologist: Sarina Hunt, M.Sc., S-LP, Labrador Health Centre; Tel: (709) 897-2142. Colette Blanchard, M.Sc., S-LP, Captain William Jackman Memorial Hospital, Tel: (709) 944-9280. Angelina Bursey, M.Sc., S-LP, Charles S. Curtis Memorial Hospital, Tel: (709) 454-0276.

ALONG THE COAST TO LABRADOR JANUARY-MARCH, 2008, PAGE 11

FOCUS ON STAFF

Dr. Edith Abousaid
Dr. Abousaid moved to Ottawa, Canada in 2003 from Lebanon. She worked as a Teaching Assistant in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa, where she received an Award of Excellence for outstanding anatomy teaching in 2006. She joined the CSAT program from May to November 2007 and worked as a locum on the Port au Port Peninsula, NL. In January 2008, she decided to join the LabradorGrenfell Health team. Dr. Abousaid is working as a General Practitioner based at the Labrador Health Centre where she provides care to patients in the Emergency Room, Inpatients and Outpatients Departments. She also provides surgical assists as well as being on call (including medivacs). She will also provide medical care to the residents of Cartwright. Dr. Abousaid notes she is happy and excited to join Labrador-Grenfell Health and is looking forward to becoming a part of NorFam, as well as to have clinical and academic careers in parallel, to serve patients and medical students in the future. Welcome Dr. Abousaid and good luck in your new position.

Joan Harron

Joan Harron, Regional Audiologist, has more than 28 years experience working in the field of Audiology. She has worked mainly in Ontario, in hospitals, a school for the deaf and most recently, private practice hearing aid dispensaries (for the last 11 years). She has recently completed her Clinical Doctorate in Audiology from A. T. Still University in Arizona. Joan makes her home in London, Ontario with her husband Alvin. She will be here on six-week locum rotations throughout the year. Joans duties include revitalization of the regional Audiology Departments in St. Anthony, Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Labrador City. She will be setting up services for children and adults to diagnose hearing problems and fit hearing aids. She will also coordinate the Infant Hearing Screening Program and consult with other departments in the region. She looks forward to providing a state-of-the art service to the region.

Kayla White

Kayla lives in Bear Cove, NL. She recently completed the Licensed Practical Nursing program in Corner Brook. Kayla recently accepted a casual LPN position at Curtis Memorial Hospital, St. Anthony. Welcome to Labrador-Grenfell Health, Kayla. We hope you enjoy working with us.

Krista Leonard

Hailing from Nova Scotia, Krista has spent the majority of her nursing experience in Emergency. She recently transferred to a rural hospital in Nova Scotia after working for ten years as a charge/staff nurse and active member of the trauma team at the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre in Halifax. Krista has accepted a position as Inpatient Unit Coordinator at the Labrador Health Centre. She says she is looking forward to experiencing the culture and climate of Labrador. Welcome, Krista and all the best in your new position and your new home.

Ozette Simpson, Chief Operating Officer (West); Karen Evely, Charge Nurse, Inpatients; Eleanor Fowler, Nursing Site Manager; Wanda Young, Inpatient Coordinator; Dannie Currie, Safety Improvement Advisor, Safer Healthcare Now! and Norma Boozan, Risk Management and Infection Control Coordinator.
Wanda Young, Inpatient Coordinator Captain William Jackman Memorial Hospital
Curtis Hospital Hosts Laboratory Student
For the first time, Curtis Hospital in St. Anthony recently hosted a Laboratory Student from the College of the North Atlantic (CONA). Gwen House is one of three students to train in the Lab at St. Anthony this year. Preceptor Lee Hillier, Laboratory Technologist, found this to be a very positive experience, with benefits to all involved. In addition to helping the students, she hopes that this arrangement with CONA may help with employee recruitment in the future. When asked about her experience at St. Anthony, Ms. House wrote the following: The Lab Tech staff at Curtis Hospital were extremely helpful. I had a wonderful experience there as a student in the Histology Department. I greatly recommend this site for future Lab Tech students for their clinical training. It is a place to be if you really want to learn and feel like you are part of a team. I would Lee Hillier, Laboratory Technologist (left) and Gwen House, like to send out a special thank-you to Lee Hillier and Carol Roberts (my supervi- Laboratory Student (right) at the Charles S. Curtis Memorial Hospital Laboratory Department. sors) for being very helpful and making my training at the hospital very enjoyable. Also, thank-you to Dr. Dankwa for a great experience with my required pathology training. Gwen House, Laboratory Student, CONA

Thank You!

Labrador-Grenfell Health thanks members of the St. Anthony Lions Club for their generous donation of a Kids First Treadmill and a Smart Cycle Bike for pediatric clients at Curtis Hospital. Participating in the presentation of these pediatric items were (l-r): Sheldon Manual (seated), Dr. K.S, Aravindakshan (Pediatrician); Dr. Padma Guntamukkala (Pediatrician), Mr. Cyril Simmonds and Mr. Jim Hayley, both from the St. Anthony Lions Club.
ALONG THE COAST TO LABRADOR NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2007, PAGE 13

Port Hope Simpson

Skipping Program Implemented in Port Hope Simpson
This past fall, the Provincial Wellness Strategy provided funding for training for skipping coaches and the necessary supplies to implement a skipping program in the Port Hope Simpson area. The Northern Regional Wellness Coalition coordinated the training and the program began in January. After just six weeks of preparation, members of the Northern SkipIts were ready for their first appearance, held at the Combined Council of Labradors recent Annual General Meeting. By all accounts, it was a spectacular show! The coaches and participants thank the Provincial Wellness Strategy for its support. In addition, the girls send their thanks to local hairdresser, Joy Penney, who volunteered her time to braid their hair before the event.

Coaches and participants in the Northern SkipIts skipping program, just before their recent appearance at the Combined Council of Labradors recent Annual General Meeting: (front, l-r): Monica Parr, Dawson Sampson, Breanna Penney, Billie-Dawn Sampson Marisa Paul and Deana Russell; (back, l-r): Donnie Sampson, Clinical Coordinator (South), Coach), Sabrina Penney, Chloe Penney, Charles Penney, Regan Burden, Sherry Penney (Family Resource Centre Coordinator, Coach) and Shania Penney. Missing from photo are Gwenda Penney and Clarissa Turnbull.
Thanking the Northern Pen
The staff of the Port Hope Simpson Community Clinic thank the Northern Pen newspaper in St. Anthony for its recent donation of $861. The funds were raised from the newspapers annual Letters to Santa, and were used to purchase a water cooler and two stools for the Well Woman Clinic.
Clinic Staff Support Community Recreation
Each year, staff at the Nain Community Clinic prepare an Easter basket for the Nunatsiavut Recreation Department to auction off on Easter Saturday. This fundraiser will help support recreational activities for the children of Nain.
Shown here at the Well Woman Clinic are (l-r): Claudine Foster, Regional Nurse II; Leona Abbott, Regional Nurse and Elizabeth Hicks, Personal Care Attendant.
Preparing the Easter Basket Fundraiser are (l-r): Dorothy Bragg, Nurse Practitioner; Helena Kautjasiak, Personal Care Attendant; Sarah Nochasak, Personal Care Attendant and Pat Crotty, Regional Nurse II.
ALONG THE COAST TO LABRADOR JANUARY-MARCH, 2008, PAGE 14

FROM THE HOMES

John M. Gray Centre, St. Anthony
Residents Enjoy a Day at the Spa
Spa Day is a big hit at the John M. Gray Centre! The ladies thoroughly enjoy an opportunity to sit back and relax at the hair salon, where they have their hair styled and nails polished. Shown here, residents Jane Williams (left) and Ada Pynn (right) are feeling great at the Spa, where volunteer Kim Patey is busy styling hair during the afternoon.
United Church Women and Pumper Boys visit the John M. Gray Centre
Residents and staff of the John M. Gray Centre sincerely thank the many community groups, churches and local entertainers who provide music and prayer for our residents. Your dedication is sincerely appreciated. In this photo, residents celebrate at the monthly birthday party with a visit from the United Church Women, along with the Pumper Boys. Residents participated in an afternoon of spiritual readings, traditional hymns and Newfie music.

Valentines Party

Residents and staff celebrated Valentines Day at the John M. Gray Centre with a Valentines party on February 14, 2008. Residents Llewellyn Taylor and Grace Patey were crowned the Valentine King and Queen while residents danced and sang and enjoyed an afternoon filled with Valentine treats. In this picture, Henry Genge enjoys a dance with Heather Bromley, Recreation Specialist.

Grenfell Pilgrim (centre) accepts a retirement gift from Sharon Penney, left, Nursing Manager and Barbara Molgaard Blake, right, COO (South) and VP People and Information Management.
ALONG THE COAST TO LABRADOR JANUARY-MARCH, 2008, PAGE 17

Laura Kitzke

Laura Kitzke began her employment experience in Labrador Regional Nursing on November 12, 2002. She initially began by providing relief and then assumed a position as Regional Nurse in Rigolet. Laura was an active community member, contributing to running the local Anglican Church and participating in and enjoying many crafts. On October 31, 2007, Laura retired after a 40-year career in Nursing, which included ten years as Director of Nursing, Long Term Care in Kansas. While in Kansas, Laura was involved with Suicide Prevention and Intervention workshops and initiated a suicide group - Heartbeat - for survivors of suicide. This passion was also reflected in her work in Labrador. Those who have worked with Laura note her kind manner and compassion. On behalf of Labrador-Grenfell Health, we wish her well on her retirement. Katherine Elson, Clinical Coordinator - North

Julie MacIsaac

Julie MacIsaac began her Nursing career in 1966. She has contributed as a Nursing Instructor and Patient Nurse Educator, and developed and taught CCU, obstetrical fetal monitoring and chemotherapy programs. Julie came to work with Regional Nursing in Hopedale on April 26, 1999. It was an excellent fit, with her experience in diabetes education, suicide intervention and coronary care. Over the eight years in Hopedale, Julie dealt with the challenges of Nursing in an isolated community. Those who have worked with Julie at Labrador-Grenfell Health note her wit, straightforward approach and excellent Nursing skills. On November 30, 2007 Julie retired after 41 years of service. We wish you and your family health and happiness on your retirement. Katherine Elson, Clinical Coordinator North
Laura Kitzke (front, seated) poses with her colleagues at the Community Clinic in Rigolet. Back (l-r): Helen Michelin RNII, Carol Flowers, PCA and Barry Sheppard, Maintenance Repairer. Julie MacIsaac cuts the cake at a retirement tea held in her honor.

Violet Dyson

Violet (Vi) Dyson, PCA at Cartwright Community Clinic, retired on October 31, 2007, after 33 years of dedicated service to the residents of Cartwright. Vi first began her employment as a Cook at the Cartwright IGA Hospital in 1974. For ten years, she prepared all the meals for the eight-bed Adult Ward and three-bed Pediatric Ward. Vi assumed the position of PCA when the hospital downsized to a clinic. Over the years that she has worked in Cartwright, she has seen many changes. Her welcoming smile and lively personality have touched many new staff. Vi has certainly set the standard high for the expectations as a PCA. She had great ability to manage time, prioritize and effectively carry out all of the many tasks that were required. She will be greatly missed. We wish her health and happiness on her well-deserved retirement. Katherine Elson, Clinical Coordinator - North

Violet Dyson displays a retirement gift at her retirement tea in Cartwright.
ALONG THE COAST TO LABRADOR JANUARY-MARCH, 2008 PAGE 18
A REMEMBRANCE DAY TO REMEMBER
Mental Health Nurse at the Labrador South Health Centre Travels to Beaumont Hamel
Reprinted in part with permission from the Northern Pen. Story by Jocelyne Cormier, January 8, 2008. Remembrance Day took on a special meaning this year for Norman Cutler and his family. Mr. Cutler, wife Marguerite, daughter Michelle and grandchildren Paige and Connor celebrated and participated in a Remembrance Day service held at Beaumont Hamel on November 11, 2007. The visit to France was part of a trip Mr. and Ms. Cutler had been planning for a long time. I guess because of the connection with the Royal Newfoundland Regiment and my father being a World War II veteran and my two children are in the Canadian Armed Forces and served in Afghanistan and in Kosovo, said Mr. Cutler, who lives in LAnse au Clair. The connection to Beaumont Hamel would be a highlight of our trip. Upon arrival at Beaumont Hamel, the family was greeted by an attendant, also a fellow Newfoundlander. Noticing that Mr. Cutler was a cleric, the attendant asked him, Would you be so kind to do the prayers at our Armistice Day service? he said. Of course, I became quite emotional. I was quite honored to do that. We proceeded to visit the battlefield on Beaumont Hamel. We went through the cemetery there and certainly reminded me of John McCraes poem, Mr. Cutler said in a voice choked with emotion. The group visited the battlefield where 801 Newfoundlanders answered the call. Sixty-eight returned from the battlefield. When the time came for the service, only a handful of people were in attendance, about 25 or 30 people, he said. On the way in the procession to the monument at Beaumont Hamel, to the Caribou, Steven (attendant) said to my grandchildren, Would you like to lay the wreath on behalf of the Government of Canada at our ceremony today? They said yes. They were quite happy to be Marguerite Cutler, Norman Cutler, Connor Osmond, Michelle Osmond and involved in the service. At the service, he said a prayer for peace, which was followed Paige Osmond take a few moments to pose by the bronze caribou statue, a Royal Newfoundland Regiment Emblem. At the foot of the statue are rocks by the laying of the wreath by his grandchildren at the Royal New- and shrubs native to Newfoundland. foundland Regiment Memorial. He wouldnt have imagined that hed be given the opportunity to participate in a Remembrance Day service at Beaumont Hamel. I think everyone was deeply moved, he said. Just being a part of that remembrance and that we could share in 1916, and how our Newfoundlanders strived to bring peace and freedom. It was because of them that I could visit and remember what they did for me as an individual, for my community and my country.

OBITUARIES

Conrad Kautjasiak
It is with sadness that Labrador-Grenfell Health notes the passing of Conrad Kautjasiak on November 28, 2007. He was 74 years old. Conrad began his working career with the International Grenfell Association in North West River in June, 1968 as a Carpenter. He worked there until the closure of the hospital in 1983. He then transferred to Melville Hospital in Goose Bay, where he worked until his retirement. He is predeceased by his wife Selma, and survived by his three daughters, Helena, Verona and Tina, eleven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Violet Manuel Clerk Stenographer, Community Clinic Services
ALONG THE COAST TO LABRADOR JANUARY-MARCH, 2008 , 2007, PAGE 19

COMINGS AND GOINGS

WELCOME TO:
FLOWERS COVE Nista Simms FORTEAU Dr. Ali Hadi Rhoda Linstead Dr. Kofi Amu-Darko HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY Jennifer Bailey HOPEDALE Denise Cooper RODDICKTON Dr. Bashar Jazrawi ST. ANTHONY Joan Harron Joyce Pilgrim Mahrukh Mahrukh Douglas Twyne Kayla White Dr. Hany Fahmy ST. LEWIS Debra Ropson Social Worker Family Physician Domestic Worker (Temporary) Family Physician Social Worker I
GOODBYE AND GOOD LUCK TO:
HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY Marni Knight Dr. Michael Francis Amanda Holloway HOPEDALE Mary Sillett Tracy Denniston Catherine Snow NORTHWEST RIVER Joann VanderJeij Social Worker II NAIN Cathy Dicker Family Physician RODDICKTON Bertha Byrne Audiologist (Temporary) Registered Nurse (Casual) Cardiology Technologist (Temporary) Utility Worker (Temporary) Licensed Practical Nurse (Temporary) Family Physician Regional Nurse ST. ANTHONY Albert Kinsella David Cull Teena Patey Dr. Yetunde Kasumu Tanya Dredge Muriel Budgell Ruby Colbourne Regional Nurse Trades Worker I (Temporary) Trades Worker I (Temporary) Rehab Assistant (Temporary) Family Physician Adolescent Mental Health Counselor Employee Development Coordinator (Retired) Laundry Worker (Retired) Personal Care Attendant Medical Records Family Physician Social Worker I Social Worker II Community Service Worker Social Worker II Personal Care Attendant
GRENFELL GALA ANNIVERSARY EVENT AND EXHIBITION: FEATURING
Mark your calendars for a Fundraising Gala Reception, to officially open the Art Exhibit of the work of Christian Corbet. The event will highlight the 100th anniversary of the rescue of Dr. Wilfred Grenfell when he became Adrift on an Ice Pan. There will be a silent auction, the unveiling of several new rug patterns that were designed by the artist; the unveiling of a medallion of Dr. Grenfell, also created by the artist; door prizes and much more. Come and meet the artist and special guests who will be in attendance. The Art Exhibit will run from July 26 - August 30, 2008. Date: July 25, 2008 7:00 -10:00 p.m. Location: Grenfell Interpretation Centre Tickets: $15.00 single and $25.00 double For more information, contact: Janet Hedderson at (709)454-4010 or e-mail info@grenfell-properties.com, or visit the website at www.grenfell-properties.com.