Lakeridge Health and Regional Indigenous Cancer Program partner on Cancer Screening and Wellness Event

Members of Alderville First Nation, Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, and Urban Indigenous community members gathered at the Durham Regional Cancer Centre on April 21 for a special cancer screening and wellness event co-hosted by Lakeridge Health and the Central East Regional Indigenous Cancer Program.

Individuals were able to participate in lung, breast, and cervical cancer screening, as well as arrange for colorectal screening in their home. The day included opening remarks by Regional Indigenous Cancer Lead, Dr. Jason Pennington, as well as an Indigenous opening ceremony.

Participants also enjoyed free wellness services, such as massage, Reiki, and reflexology, as well as food and socializing. The Indigenous Health Promoter from Carea Community Health Centre was on hand to lead a craft teaching, and the Indigenous team from University Health Network provided a learning session on advance care planning.

“Provincial reports have shown that Indigenous peoples are more likely to develop certain types of cancers, such as lung, colon, and cervical cancer, and that Indigenous women living in First Nations communities are less likely to participate in breast cancer screening due to lack of access,” said Cathy Slevin, Director, Regional Program, Lakeridge Health.

“As such, it was incredible to witness so many Indigenous community members participating in cancer screening at this event. Screening is so important because it can find cancer when it is small and most easily treated. And, by taking this brave and important step, these individuals were not only prioritizing their own health, but also setting an example for others in their communities.”

“Lakeridge Health is proud to partner with the Central East Regional Cancer Program to ensure equitable access to care in ways that are meaningful to those who rely on us each and every day,” added Kirsten Burgomaster, Health System Executive, Regional and Community Care, Lakeridge Health.

“Events like these are essential for building relationships and working to make Indigenous community members feel safe within institutional spaces that quite often feel unsafe,” explained Carter Sehn, Indigenous Outreach Liaison, Durham Regional Cancer Centre, Lakeridge Health.

Kathy MacLeod-Beaver, Indigenous Navigator, Central East Regional Cancer Program, noted that the Screening Day was “a great example of coming together to support culturally safe equitable access and reducing barriers in cancer screening. Continuing in this good way together will support positive health outcomes.”

“If I was able to give you a Google Review, you’d get a 10 out of 10 for this event,” shared a participant from Screening Day event.

More information about the Central East Regional Cancer Program is available on the Lakeridge Health website.