Saugeen First Nation officially opened its hospice-like space, Niinigiiwe – “I’m Going Home” palliative care centre at the E’Gitzijit Endaawaad (Elders Facility) on Monday, November 27th (2023).
Spiritually it has been designed “For that Sacred Journey through the Western Door”.
Upon entering the hospice facility, built for Band and community members of Saugeen, visitors are immediately struck by the incredible Indigenous artwork on the walls. Created by artist Emily Kewageshig, the vibrant colours and symbolism depict First Nations’ ties to nature.
Chief Conrad Chief said it took a lot of coordination to bring the project to fruition. “As leaders it is up to us to look after our older generation. The elders and the children are always our priorities and our responsibilities.”
The new facility, that took more than a year to complete, is a self-sustaining unit with a full kitchen and dining area, living room and bedroom with an ensuite full bath. The bedroom also features double doors to allow for the patient in bed to be moved out of doors.
It was a also a day of celebration for the Mercer family who donated some 19 pieces of original art to adorn the walls. Sybil Mercer and son, Jim, were in attendance and donated the artworks on behalf of the family in honour of their late husband and father, Dr. Don Mercer.
Dr. Mercer worked with Saugeen First Nations throughout his career and was a collector of Indigenous art. He was also a photographer and, his photos often turned into rug-hooking masterpieces created by his wife, Sybil.
For larger view, Click on Image
Each piece of art is a life experience and story from the lives of Dr. Don and Sybil Mercer. On the living room wall is a collage of hooked wildflowers that once grew at the amphitheatre adjacent to what was Wesley United Church at Saugeen First Nation. “I’m so glad that I took the time to do them from a photo that Don took, as the flowers are no longer there and are now just a memory,” said Sybil Mercer.
“We wanted to donate this art to Saugeen First Nation,” said Mercer. “It’s what Don would have wanted.”
Elder and Band Councillor, Lorne Mandawoub, also spoke fondly of Dr. Mercer and the care that he provided when Mandawoub experienced a burn. “He care for me for two years,” he said. “He invented a special salve and put it on my burn. I remember him well.”,
“All the art in this facility has been donated by the Mercer family,” said Cathy Banks RN, BScN.
She went on to explain that, “Niinigiiwe is a comfortable, inviting, home-like space for family and friends to care for and support their love on on their final journey. Unlike other hospices, we encourage the family to care for their loved one, but healthcare professionals will be available to support the patient and caregivers.”
Banks also pointed out that a chest was filled with quilts made by Comfy Quilts of Saugeen Shores, a group of 15 – 20 women. “A family or patient can choose a quilt for the bed and, when their loved one passes, they can then take the quilt home with them as a memory.”
“We also have to thank our donors who made this facility a reality,” added Banks, pointing to a plaque of recognition.
