By Doris Warner, Engagement Liaison, SE Health First Nations, Inuit and Métis Program
Many Canadians may never experience life in a remote, fly-in First Nation community. But for those who do, the experience is often life changing. In February 2013, I had the privilege of visiting Sandy Lake First Nation, located in Treaty 5 Territory, as part of the SE Health First Nations, Inuit and Métis Program.
Visiting Sandy Lake First Nation, Northern Ontario
Sandy Lake First Nation is a remote Oji-Cree community with a population of approximately 2,100. It lies 227 km northeast of Red Lake, Ontario. With no year-round road access, the community is reachable only by air or winter ice roads. Flying into Sandy Lake is an adventure in itself—one that underscores the isolation and resilience of northern Indigenous communities.
Our visit was unforgettable. I joined two colleagues for a two-day caregiver sharing session, a gathering designed to celebrate and support local caregivers.
Celebrating Caregivers in Remote Indigenous Communities
With support from the Greenshield Canada Foundation and the Sandy Lake Home and Community Care Program, we met with nine caregivers, all women, ranging in age from their 20s to their 70s. These women shared powerful stories of resilience, love, courage and dedication. For many, this was the first time anyone had asked what they needed to support their caregiving roles.
We focused on self-care, providing pampering kits and creating space for reflection and joy. One caregiver told us it was the first break they’d had in years. Their stories highlighted the lack of access to essential services—no hospital, no emergency care, no palliative support, and limited access to pain management.
The Concept of the “Natural Caregiver”
One caregiver described herself as a “natural caregiver”—a term that resonated deeply. Before formal community programs and funding structures, caregiving was a shared community responsibility. This Indigenous way of life , where everyone contributes to the well-being of others, is a powerful reminder of the strength and values embedded in First Nations communities.
From Stories to Solutions: Supporting Natural Caregivers
This visit to Sandy Lake was one of three community sessions that informed the development of the Supporting Natural Caregivers course. Co-developed with First Nations care providers and funded by the Greenshield Canada Foundation, this course is available for free through AtYourSide Colleague, SE Health’s online learning platform. It’s one of over 20 professional development courses designed to support Indigenous health care providers.
Learn more about the SE Health First Nations, Inuit and Métis Program: https://fnim.sehc.com/
Standing with Sandy Lake During Wildfire Evacuations
As of June 2025, Sandy Lake First Nation is heavy on our minds right now as they like many northern communities in Canada have been evacuated due to an extraordinarily bad start to the forest fire season. Our hearts are with all those affected by the wildfires across Turtle Island. We acknowledge the fear and uncertainty many evacuees are experiencing. To the communities, families and first responders our thoughts are with you, and we hold space for your safety during this incredibly difficult time and hope that your return home will be soon.
We encourage everyone to take action, donate, volunteer, or spread awareness to support those impacted by the wildfires.