Eight New International Medical Graduates Recruited to PMH

Physician recruitment efforts continue within Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) region. Collaborating with the Province, Shared Health and community partners, PMH continues to strategically enhance access to physician and primary care services within the Region. One of the initiatives the region utilizes as part of overall physician recruitment strategies includes the provincial Medical Licensure Program for International Medical Graduates (MLPIMG). The MLPIMG Program assists foreign-trained doctors in obtaining their medical license to be able to practice as a family physician in Manitoba.

Recruits to Roblin (l-r) Dr. Yousefiadib and Dr. Khattak.
Photo Credit Roblin Review

“During the past year, the region sponsored eight physicians to participate in the MLPIMG program” said Treena Slate, PMH CEO. “After much consideration, physicians that successfully graduated from the program were placed at various sites within PMH communities that require additional sufficient physician resources.”

The newly recruited physicians for communities are:

Swan River

Dr. Uche Adediji
Dr. Toyin Oluwatuyi
Dr. Oghenekevwe Ekrebe (early September start)

Neepawa

Dr. Louis Eleche

Dr Uche Adediji, Dr Oghenekevwe Ekrebe and Dr. Dr Oluwatoyin Oluwatuyi standing infront of Swan Valley Primary Care Centre — Dr Uche Adediji, Dr Oghenekevwe Ekrebe and Dr. Dr Oluwatoyin Oluwatuyi.

Souris

Dr. Rilwan Azeez for Souris (mid-September start)

Roblin

Dr. Anahita Yousefiadib
Dr. Zoia Khattak

Virden

Dr. Sylvia Oranika

In return for regional sponsorship, MLPIMG doctors agree to practice in their respective communities for four years. The Program is supported by the University of Manitoba —Max Rady College of Medicine, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, Shared Health-Health Care Recruitment and Retention Office, and Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care.

“Retention and recruitment of staff, including doctors, is our top priority,” stated Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara. “I want to welcome and thank these new doctors for joining our incredible Manitoba workforce. I wish them well as they begin providing this essential care throughout Prairie Mountain Health”.

In 2024, five MLPIMG physicians were placed in the communities of Deloraine, Grandview, Russell, Ste. Rose and Virden. In 2023, MLPIMG physicians were placed in Glenboro, Hamiota, Russell, Swan River and Virden (2).

During the next rotation, which is already underway, PMH is sponsoring seven more MLPIMG physicians who commenced their training program this past June. If successful, they will be able to commence practice within the health region next fall (2026).

Summer 2025 | Donations for PMH

Neepawa & District Health Centre receives ERBE electro surgical unit

Neepawa staff with ERBE electro surgical unit — Dr. Rob Poettcker, Kristy McInnes, Erin Almey, Dr. Nichelle Desilets, Larisa Koshel, Jeniffer Sorongon, (in front) Ashley product rep.

The Beautiful Plains Community Foundation offers funding to the Neepawa & District Health Centre to purchase items that the facility needs. The Foundation has multiple different funds to help with the growing needs of the community and the facility.

This piece of equipment was purchased for $61,498 through generous community donations flowed through the Beautiful Plains Community Foundation. This advanced piece of endoscopy equipment is being utilized in the current Neepawa hospital and will move with us to the new Neepawa Hospital.

Curling for a Cure

Group of people presenting a large cheque — Riley Abel, Emma Yanchycki, Cheryl Yanchycki, Darren Yanchycki, Case Yanchycki, Westin Abel, Cazmer Yanchycki, Kinley Yanchycki, Jenna Yanchycki, Chad Yanchycki, Kristi Friesen (oncology nurse Neepawa CCP) Christina Woodcock (manager of Health Services Neepawa Health Centre)

Curling for a Cure is an annual fundraising bonspiel event held in Minnedosa. This event is organized in honor of the late Nicholas Melnyk by his family and the group has committed to support the Neepawa Community Cancer Program (CCP) for the next 10 years.
This generous donation of $20,030 will be put towards the purchase of new treatment chairs which will enhance the comfort of patients receiving treatment in Neepawa CCP.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | September 30

“Achieving reconciliation is like climbing a mountain – we must proceed a step at a time. It will not always be easy. There will be storms, there will be obstacles, but we cannot allow ourselves to be daunted by the task because our goal is just and it is also necessary.” – Justice Murray Sinclair

We are approaching the 10^th year anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action, that were released in December 2015. There are 7 Calls to Action that are specifically written with a focus on Health and Health Care. Prairie Mountain Health has been incorporating Health Recommendations into their annual action plans and day to day actions. Read the following recommendations and reflect upon how you see these Calls to Action being acknowledged and followed.

Calls to Action 18 – 24: Recommendations for Health are as follows:

18. We call upon the federal, provincial, territorial, and Aboriginal governments to acknowledge that the current state of Aboriginal health in Canada is a direct result of previous Canadian government policies, including residential schools, and to recognize and implement the health-care rights of Aboriginal people as identified in international law, constitutional law, and under the Treaties.

19. We call upon the federal government, in consultation with Aboriginal peoples, to establish measurable goals to identify and close the gaps in health outcomes between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities, and to publish annual progress reports and assess long-term trends. Such efforts would focus on indicators such as: infant mortality, maternal health, suicide, mental health, addictions, life expectancy, birth rates, infant and child health issues, chronic diseases, illness and injury incidence, and the availability of appropriate health services.

20. In order to address the jurisdictional disputes concerning Aboriginal people who do not reside on reserves, we call upon the federal government to recognize, respect, and address the distinct health needs of the Métis, Inuit, and off-reserve Aboriginal peoples.

21. We call upon the federal government to provide sustainable funding for existing and new Aboriginal healing centres to address the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual harms caused by residential schools, and to ensure that the funding of healing centres in Nunavut and the Northwest Territories is a priority.

22. We call upon those who can effect change within the Canadian health-care system to recognize the value of Aboriginal healing practices and use them in the treatment of Aboriginal patients in collaboration with Aboriginal healers and Elders where requested by Aboriginal patients.

23. We call upon all levels of government to:
i. Increase the number of Aboriginal professionals working in the health-care field.
ii. Ensure the retention of Aboriginal health-care providers in Aboriginal communities.
iii. Provide cultural competency training for all healthcare professionals.

24. We call upon medical and nursing schools in Canada to require all students to take a course dealing with Aboriginal health issues, including the history and legacy of residential schools, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Treaties and Aboriginal rights, and Indigenous teachings and practices. This will require skills-based training in intercultural competency, conflict resolution, human rights, and anti-racism.

Learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada

The National Residential Schools Crisis Line: 1-800-925-4419

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Canada.ca

Orange Shirt Day | September 30

With the coming of Fall, we often think about the changing colors, school starting, sweaters, shorter days, and now Orange Shirt Day. September 30 is Orange Shirt Day. This day is more than just a national holiday, it is a day that commemorates the children who never returned home and the survivors of residential schools. It is a day to reflect on the impacts of residential schools on individuals, families, and communities.

Every Child Matters – Wear an orange shirt on September 30

Explore the story of Phyllis Webstad, creator of Orange Shirt Day. Because of her advocacy for the children, survivors, and families that are affected by residential schools, Phyllis received an honorary doctorate from Brandon University in June 2024.

Events Across PMH

If you have an event you would like to share with the region please email [email protected].

Brandon

Swan River

Join us on September 30th for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Walk, beginning at 10:30am at Elbert Chartrand Friendship Centre. Bannock and Refreshments will be served.

Dauphin

📅 September 30, 2025
West Region Treaty 2 & 4 Health Services is hosting an Orange Shirt Day event in Dauphin.

Event details:

Location: Dauphin (venue details to be confirmed/posted closer to the date)
Focus: Honoring Survivors, commemorating National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and raising awareness through community gathering
Vendors: 10 Indigenous vendors will be featured, showcasing crafts, clothing, and beauty items (no food).
Vendor registration:
- Table fee: a donated vendor item for door prizes
- Deadline to apply: September 22, 2025
- Interested vendors can email [email protected] with vendor name, contact information, and a short description of offerings

The day will include opportunities for community connection, cultural sharing, and raising awareness about the legacy of residential schools.

For Community, by Community: Introducing HOPE: Healing, Outreach, Promotion, Education

When it comes to suicide prevention and life promotion, our community has a powerful resource: HOPE. More than a word, Hope is a collaborative initiative led by a steering committee of local leaders and supported by a Community Coordinator. Guided by the proven Roots of Hope framework, this initiative is working to foster resilience, connection, and life-affirming change in our region.

HOPE stands for:

Healing – supporting those with lived experience.
Outreach – guiding our services and resources supporting individuals currently navigating thoughts of suicide.
Promotion – honouring the life-affirming perspectives held by Indigenous communities.
Education – offering continued learning and awareness across the Prairie Mountain Health region.

Together, these pillars create a strong, community-led movement. Guided by the Roots of Hope framework, the Hope initiative works to reduce stigma, build resilience, and support life at every stage.

Roots of Hope is a community-led suicide prevention and life promotion model being used across Canada. Developed by the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), it provides a flexible, evidence-informed framework for communities to build local suicide prevention strategies.

The goal of Roots of Hope is to reduce the impact of suicide by addressing stigma, increasing awareness about mental illness, and promoting connected, supportive communities.

This made-in-Canada model was informed by global research and expert consultation and is adaptable to any community setting. It is structured around five pillars of action and thirteen guiding principles:

Five Pillars of Action

Specialized Supports
Training and Networks
Means Safety
Public Awareness
Research and Evaluation

Thirteen Guiding Principles

Comprehensive
Collaboration and Coordination
Culturally Appropriate
Recovery-Oriented
Evidence-Informed
Measurement and Evaluation
Lived Experience
Flexible
Strengths-Based
Spanning the Continuum
Community-Centred
Sustainable
Innovative

In 2024, the Province of Manitoba adopted the Roots of Hope framework, providing funding to each health authority to support implementation. Prairie Mountain Health created a steering committee, community assessments were initiated, and Kelly Lewis joined as Community Coordinator to lead this work in January 2025.

We are now working to embed the Roots of Hope model within existing networks and committees, as well as guide future goals in suicide prevention and life promotion throughout the region.

Current Groups Involved

SPIN (Suicide Prevention Implementation Network) – Regional
Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Committee – Regional
Westman Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Association – Local

If you’re interested in being involved in the HOPE initiative and adopting the Roots of Hope model in your community, want to learn more, or would like to connect with others involved in suicide prevention and life promotion, please reach out to:

Kelly Lewis
Hope Community Coordinator
[email protected]

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue the rollout of HOPE across the Prairie Mountain Health region.

September is World Suicide Prevention Month. In recognition of this important month, the regional groups SPIN and MWSPC will be hosting events and activities on Wednesday, September 10th across the region. If you are interested in participating or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Dauphin Suicide Prevention Walk on September 10.

Swan River Suicide Prevention Walk on September 10.

World Suicide Prevention Day | September 10

Blue background with yellow and orange ribbon for suicide prevention.

SPIN (Suicide Prevention Implementation Network) Honours World Suicide Prevention Day

Each year on September 10th, people in more than 80 countries around the world unite to recognize World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), an initiative led by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP). This global day of awareness is dedicated to reducing stigma, raising understanding, and inspiring action to prevent suicide.

The theme for WSPD 2024–2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.” This theme highlights the urgent need to shift from silence and stigma, toward openness, understanding, and support. Changing the narrative requires systemic change—and together, communities can foster hope, connection, and safety for all.

“Suicide is a complex global health issue, but it is preventable,” says Sean Krausert, Executive Director of the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP). “Every year, more than 700,000 people die by suicide worldwide, and countless others are deeply affected. By changing the narrative, we can create a culture where conversations about suicide and mental health are safe, supported, and lifesaving.”

Local Events in Brandon, Manitoba

In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day, SPIN invites the community to join several events:

Free safeTALK Training – Tuesday, September 9th, 2025 | 6:00–9:00 PM
Location: Brandon University- Health Studies Building- North Entrance@ 18^th & Princess Ave. Pre-registration required by email: [email protected].
safeTALK is a suicide alertness training program that teaches participants to recognize signs of suicide and how to connect individuals to life-saving resources.

Community Recognition – Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 | 11:30 AM–1:00 PM Location: A.R. McDiarmid Civic Complex, Cultural Room – 638 Princess Ave.
Join us as we recognize individuals who are making our community suicide-safer. A light lunch and community resources will be available.

Ribbon Tying Ceremony & Vigil – Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 | 7:00 PM
Starting at Errol Black Park & 1st Street Bridge.
This ceremony honours those lost to suicide and offers a space for healing. The evening will include hot chocolate, therapy dogs, support, and resources for attendees.

To close the day, both national and local participants are invited to join a global tradition: placing a lit candle in a window at 8:00 PM in their time zone to “Light a Flame of Hope” in remembrance of lives lost and in solidarity with those struggling.

CASP National Virtual Event: September 10, 2025 – 1:00-2:30 CST (Register online at World Suicide Prevention Day – Canadian Association For Suicide Prevention)

Local Events in Dauphin, Manitoba

Community Awareness Walk – September 10 at noon (12-1pm). Vermillion Park (214 2nd Ave. NW) Dauphin. Free Hot Dogs for attendees. Join the Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Committee for a community walk to raise awareness about suicide prevention. Information and materials to engage in personal awareness activities will be provided.
Chalk The Walk – Use chalk to help us beautify our community with images & messages of hope, resilience, suicide awareness & prevention. Decorate your walkway to inspire others. Look at the images with someone. Chat about Mental Wellness. FREE chalk available at Dauphin Community Health Office, Dauphin Library and Primary Care Outreach Clinic (PCOC).

Local Events in Swan River, Manitoba

Community Awareness Walk – September 10 at noon (12-1pm). Co-op Grocery Store Parking Lot (811 Main Street) Swan River. Join the Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Committee for a community walk to raise awareness about suicide prevention. Information and materials to engage in personal awareness activities will be provided.

The World Health Organization emphasizes that suicide is preventable with timely, evidence-based, and often low-cost interventions. Strengthening support networks, reducing stigma, and fostering open conversations about mental health are key to saving lives.

If you are struggling or concerned about someone else’s suicidal thoughts, do not hesitate to reach out for help.

Contact the Manitoba Suicide Prevention and Support Line at 1-877-435-7170, Or Simply dial or text 988- a crisis line available 24 hours per day. A trained crisis worker will listen to you and direct you to needed resources.

PMH Resources- Contact Westman Crisis Services at 204-725-4411 or 1-888-379-7699 in the Brandon Area or 1-866-332-3030 for PMH-North- Call 911 or contact a local hospital or health office.

Prairie Mountain Health- North Mental Wellness and Crisis Resources

Prairie Mountain Health- Mental health: child, adult, and senior’s mental health
Prairie Mountain Health- workshops, training, and clinics
Canadian Mental Health Association- CMHA Swan Valley – Mental Health for All
Hope for Wellness Helpline- Crisis support available for Indigenous people
Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba- programming, peer support, and resources
Peer Connections Manitoba- Peer Connections Manitoba – Your Connection to Wellness (peerconnectionsmb.ca)
Kids help phone- youth crisis support and skill building resource

PROVINCIAL CRISIS RESOURCES

Manitoba Suicide Line	1-877-435-7170
Sexual Assault Crisis Line	1-888-292-7565
Klinic Crisis Line	1-866-367-3276
Manitoba Farm & Rural Stress Line	1-888-322-3019
Manitoba Addictions Help Line	1-855-662-6605
Kids Help Phone	1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
First Nations & Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line	1-855-242-3310
Reason to Live	reasontolive.ca

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Day |September 9

Easy Mocktails: Berry Indulgence
Mocktails are a fun and refreshing way to enjoy a special drink—without alcohol. You might already have the ingredients at home!
– Strawberries or raspberries
– ¼ cup ginger ale or sprite
– ¼ cup orange or pineapple juice
– ½ cup apple juice
Instructions:
Blend all ingredients for several seconds.
Pour into two large fancy glasses and garnish with a berry.
Enjoy your alcohol-free treat!

Each year on the 9th day of the 9th month, people across the world recognize International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day. This date highlights the importance of everyone supporting a health pregnancy over the 9 months, including it being alcohol free. #EveryonePlaysAPart

FASD is a diagnostic term for a range of lifelong physical, emotional, and developmental effects caused by alcohol exposure before birth. This can occur before the pregnancy is known. Approximately 4% of Canadians are affected by FASD.

FASD Support in Manitoba

Manitoba FASD Network

All diagnostic assessments for children and youth (under age 18) in Manitoba are coordinated through the Manitoba FASD Centre and the Manitoba FASD Network.

If a child or youth was exposed to alcohol during pregnancy and has developmental or behavioral concerns, anyone can make a referral.

Contact Prairie Mountain Health FASD Diagnostic Coordinators:

Dauphin: 204-622-6223
Brandon: 204-578-2487

Life’s Journey Inc.

Life’s Journey is a not-for-profit agency supporting individuals with neurodevelopment and co-occurring disorders. Life’s Journey helps people with diverse abilities living in Manitoba. Life’s Journey includes traditional Indigenous healing as a significant component of their clinical services.

This agency strives to provide clinically informed, culturally relevant, wellness oriented, relationship and strengths-based services.

Westman Services is located in Brandon and provides services to individuals eligible for funding through Community Living Disability Services. Individualized services include:

outreach support and mentorship
family support
supported independent living
cluster housing
homeshare (foster)
shift-staffed residences
day program

Westman Services offers various clinical services, including psychology, occupational therapy, addiction support, and access to a Nurse Practitioner. All services are voluntary.

The Rural Connections program provides individualized services for transitional youth and adults impacted by FASD and ineligible for other government support programs. Individuals must be ineligible for funding through Community Living Disability Services, Provincial Alternative Support Services and Community Mental Health. The program is available within the Brandon and Steinbach regions. Rural Connections offers outreach support and mentorship.

For more information on Life’s Journey, Westman Services or the Rural Connections Program call 204-772-1591.

FASD Coalitions

Brandon and Area FASD Coalitions – If you are interested in joining the Brandon and Area FASD Coalition, please call 204-578-2487.

Manitoba FASD Coalitions – For more information visit the Manitoba FASD Coalition

Swan River HERO Club 30^th Anniversary

*Left to right: Jennifer Burtnack, Activity Instructor for the Roblin HERO Club, Joe Harambura – Roblin HERO Club member, Ron Galbraith – Dauphin HERO Club member.*

The Swan River HERO Club celebrated its 30^thAnniversary on July 17, 2025 at the HERO Club’s present location at 317 Main Street in Swan River. The HERO Club, which stands for Helping Everyone Reach Out, opened its doors in Swan River in 1995. Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) provides coordination and other program assistance to the HERO Club through its Community Mental Health program.

The closure of the Brandon Mental Health Center in the 1990s played a role in the development of the HERO Clubs. When the Brandon Mental Health Center closed, some of the people who lived there were asked where they would like to go and where they would like to live. These people needed help with adjusting to their home towns and communities and needed a safe and supportive place to hang out. Ed Miller, a Community Mental Health Worker in Swan River at the time, was instrumental in getting the HERO Clubs up and running.

Dorleen Sagert, Community Mental Health Worker within the PsychoSocial Rehabilitation Program, at the Swan River HERO Club 30th Anniversary celebrations. — *Dorleen Sagert,* Community Mental Health Worker within the PsychoSocial Rehabilitation Program, *at the Swan River HERO Club 30^th Anniversary celebrations.*

The HERO Club in Dauphin opened in 1994, the Swan River Club opened in 1995 (in partnership with CMHA), the Roblin Club opened in 1999 and the Russell-Binscarth Club opened in 2001. These HERO Clubs were created to help people in meeting their needs with vocational, educational, recreational and social programming and activities. This has created connection among members and a sense of community within the H.E.R.O Club. The members support each other and help one another with their goals in life. This helps the members to feel empowered, productive, and supported. The HERO Club logo was created and drawn by a Club member and remains a visual cue to the success of the initiative.

PMH congratulates the Swan River HERO Club on its ongoing work and for achieving and highlighting such a notable milestone!

International Overdose Awareness Day – IOAD

This International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), we come together as one big family to take action on overdose.

IOAD is observed on August 31 each year, with events taking place throughout the week in more than 40 countries.

The overdose crisis doesn’t just shatter our families, it fractures our communities.

The losses go deeper than one person, one family or one neighborhood. They ripple out into classrooms, workplaces and the spaces we all share. They cross borders between cities, states and nations.

But in a time when people are searching for connection and safety, overdose also reminds us that our lives are deeply intertwined.

We often instinctively protect our own – our children, our parents, our siblings. We believe in second chances for our loved ones but struggle to extend that same compassion to others. But what if we saw each other as one big family, bound not just by blood, but by shared experiences, responsibility and commitment to each other?

This International Overdose Awareness Day let’s imagine a new meaning of what family can be. A family driven by hope, love and action. We are one big family – not just because we share in the pain of loss, but because we share in the power to change what comes next.

This August 31, we move beyond awareness. We organize, we show up, and we take action. Because no one should carry this grief alone. Every story shared, every voice raised and every step we take brings us closer to a future free from overdose.

“International Overdose Awareness Day is a chance to come together with other people in the community who understand what it means to lose someone to overdose.”

“But it’s also about pushing for change, locally and globally. We invite everyone in the community to attend our events to help our campaign for a world without overdose.”

Overdose Awareness Walk followed by an afternoon of fund and education.
When: Sunday, Aug. 31, 1-3
Where: Princess Park, Brandon, MB.

Vigil to Honour Those Gone Too Soon.
Bring their picture, song or poem
When: Sunday, Aug. 31^st, 6-7pm
Where: Dinsdale Park

Sweat Lodge Ceremony
When: Monday, August 25 at 11:00 AM
Where: WSFN Sweat Lodge Site located North West of Novra (North of Swan River)

See overdoseday.com for a full list of IOAD events and to learn more about overdose prevention.

Join our family this IOAD.

#OneBigFamily #DrivenByHope #IOAD2025 #EndOverdose

Article adapted from www.overdoseday.com

Events around the region

Elkwood Manor Fundraising Project

Image of Elkwood Manor Personal Care Home with the words Help us Grow Something Beautiful

We need your support to make this vision a reality

Elkwood Manor Personal Care Home in Elkhorn is planning to create a new peaceful, accessible courtyard for residents. A place where they can enjoy the outdoors, connect with nature, and spend quality time with loved ones.

Every donation helps bring comfort, beauty, and togetherness to our residents and their families.

Our Plans

Estimated cost of project: $200,000 plus taxes.

Replace the paving stones
Add a walking path
Install a fence
Improve lighting in the space
Beautify with flowers & shrubs
Add a bench, gazebo & outdoor furnishings

How to Donate

Donations can be made out to Prairie Mountain Health – indicate “Elkhorn Courtyard Project.”

Drop off: Elkwood Manor at 12 Antrim Street, Elkhorn

Mail to: Box 70 | Elkhorn, MB | R0M 0N0

Contact

If you have any questions contact

Lindsay Cooper, Manager – Health Services

[email protected]

204-877-5199