Week 1 of the TBayOnTheMove Active Commute Challenge is complete, and our TBRHSC team is off to a fantastic start.
Thank you to everyone who registered and began tracking their sustainable commutes – whether you biked, walked, carpooled, or took transit, your efforts are helping to build a healthier, greener workplace.
Congratulations to our week 1 prize winners:
Emily Quarles
Paul Shewfelt
Justin Ross
It’s not too late to join – head to TBayOnTheMove.ca to register and start logging your trips. Each week brings more chances to win, and every commute counts toward our workplace leaderboard.
Shared on behalf of the Occupational Health and Safety Department
Wearing an N95 mask provides protection for staff from chemical exposures and airborne contaminants. Respirator fit testing verifies that the respirator provides the expected level of protection by ensuring a tight seal between the respirator and the wearer’s face. It is a requirement of Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Center that your fit testing be updated bi-annually, or sooner if there are changes in facial features, weight loss or gain of 10 pounds or more, or if the mask you were fit tested for is no longer available.
Occupational Health and Safety sends out quarterly notices to managers identifying who is overdue or coming due on their mask fit testing. If you have received a notification, or you think your fit test requires an update for another reason, please call Occupational Health and Safety at (807) 684-6212 to book.
Thank you to all those who participated in week 1 of Pride Trivia! Below you will find the answers to last week’s questions. .
Question 1: When was the Pride flag first raised at Parliament Hill in Ottawa?
Response: The first Pride flag was raised at Parliament Hill in Ottawa in 2016.
Question 2: How many colours did the original Pride flag have?
Response: The original Pride flag was developed by Gilbert Baker in 1978 to stand as a symbol of gay pride. Baker’s flag had 8 colours: hot pink, red, orange, yellow, green, turquoise, blue, and purple.
Question 3: How many colours does the Intersex-Inclusive Progress Pride flag have?
Response: 11 colours. The Pride flag has undergone several updates. The hot pink and turquoise stripes of Gilbert Baker’s original Pride flag were removed. Black and brown stripes were added to represent communities of colour, while black also represents the lives lost during the HIV/AIDS crisis. Light blue, pink, and white were added to represent the Trans community; and a purple circle on a yellow background represents the Intersex community. There are duplications of yellow and purple, for a total of 11 colours.
Question 4: How many Canadians over the age of 15 identify as a member of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community?
Response: According to Statistics Canada, the number of Canadians over the age of 15 who identify as a member of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community, is 1.3 million.
Question 1: In which year was same-sex marriage legalized in Canada?
Answer: 2005. With the passing of the Civil Marriage Act on July 20, 2005, same-sex marriage was legalized across Canada.
Question 2: True or False: Canada was the fourth country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage
Answer: TRUE. With the passing of the Civil Marriage Act on July 20, 2005, Canada became the 4th country in the world to legalize same-same marriage, behind Spain (2005), Belgium (2003), and the Netherlands (2001).
Question 3: True or False: the 2SLGBTQQIA+ acronym stands for: Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, and Allies
Answer: FALSE. The 2SLGBTQQIA+ acronym stands for: Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual (and other A identities such as Aromantic and Agender). While allies provide instrumental support to the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community, they are not members of the community, and do not share the struggles of community members, therefore they are not represented in the acronym.
Question 4: What do the 6 colours of the rainbow on the Pride flag represent?
Answer: The 6 colours of the rainbow on the Pride flag represent:
Red
Life
Orange
Healing
Yellow
Sun or Sunlight
Green
Nature
Blue
Serenity/ Harmony
Purple
Spirit of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community
Week 3 Questions & Answers:
Question 1: What does 2S stand for in the 2SLGBTQQIA+ acronym?
Answer: 2S in the 2SLGBTQQIA+ acronym stands for Two-Spirit. The term Two Spirit is a culturally specific identity describing Indigenous individuals whose gender, spiritual, or sexual identity includes both male and female spirits. The term honors gender and sexual diversity and emphasizes the ability of Two-Spirits to navigate both worlds and hold male and female responsibilities in their communities. While the concept of Two-Spirit individuals has existed among Indigenous Peoples for generations, the term niizh manidoowag, meaning “two spirits,” was first proposed in 1990 by Elder Myra Laramee.
Question 2: True or False: The Stonewall Uprising was a gay rights protest that started on June 28, 1969?
Answer: TRUE. The Stonewall Uprising, also known as the Stonewall Rebellion, or the Stonewall Riots, was a gay rights protest that began on June 28, 1969 and lasted approximately 6 days. It was named for the Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in New York City, and the site of the uprising. In the early morning hours of June 28, 1969, police raided the bar, leading to several days of violent protests. It was considered a turning point for the gay rights movement, and the first gay liberation march took place the following year on the anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising.
Question 3: The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia is observed annually on May 17. What is the significance of this date?
Answer: On May 17, 1990, The World Health Organization (WHO) removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders, marking a significant step toward greater equity for the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia is therefore observed annually on May 17 to honour this significant event.
Question 4: Why is Pride Month celebrated in June?
Answer: Pride Month is celebrated in June each year to honour the Stonewall Uprising—which took place in June of 1969—and its contributions to advancing 2SLGBTQQIA+ rights.
Week 4 Questions & Answers:
Question 1: Which Canadian Physician and their husband won The Amazing Race Canada! in season 7?
Answer: Dr. James A. Makokis. Dr. James A. Makokis and his husband Anthony Johnston formed the team “Team Ahkameyimok,” which means “Never give up” in the Plains Cree language, for the seventh season of The Amazing Race Canada! Dr. Makokis is a Nehiyô (Plains Cree), and Two-Spirit Family Physician, from Saddle Lake Cree Nation in Alberta. Dr. Makokis’ practice focuses on Trans health. You can learn more about Dr. Makokis on his website at: https://www.drjamesmakokis.com/
Question 2: Which Canadian city was the first in North America to host WorldPride?
Answer: Toronto. Toronto hosted WorldPride in 2014, becoming the first city in North America to do so. WorldPride was developed by the InterPride organization, to generate visibility and awareness of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community.
Question 3: What are some ways that you can be an ally to the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community? (Check all that apply).
Answer: There are many ways to demonstrate allyship with the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. You can:
Access education opportunities by attending workshops and local events, including Thunder Pride
Advocate on behalf of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community, for example, by intervening when you witness discriminatory behavior
Respect the lived and living experiences of 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals by listening to their stories and perspectives
Use inclusive language, for example, by addressing a group of people with “Hello, everyone!” instead of “Hello, ladies and gentlemen,” and using gender-neutral terms such as “firefighters” instead of “firemen”
Mr. Banskumar Arjune, a long time employee of Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC), dedicated his life to efforts supporting the treatment of patients with cancer and, despite a valiant effort, succumbed to that condition himself on May 22, 2025. Mr. Arjune launched his career in cancer care in 1984 joining what was then the Thunder Bay Regional Cancer Centre. By the early 1990’s Mr. Arjune had become certified as a Medical Physicist and, in the process, had become a “Jack of all Trades” in the field of radiation oncology. For a period of about three years he single-handedly fulfilled myriad roles that enabled the continued delivery of radiation treatment. Arguably, radiation treatment in Northwestern Ontario may not have survived that period without his commitment. Subsequent to the full integration of the cancer program with the TBRHSC in the early 2000s, the radiation treatment program continued to grow and is now a robust and world class operation. Over those years Mr. Arjune’s clinical contributions continued to be substantial and pivotal. He influenced the careers of many who have been integral to the program, some of whom continue to actively apply their talents in radiation treatment today. He was, and will continue to be, an inspiration.
His lifelong commitment and dedication to the promotion of the highest standard of radiation treatment is being honoured by the lowering of the flags to half-mast on June 11, 2025. That recognition reflects on both those who have and those who continue to dedicate their careers to the care of the patients of Northwestern Ontario.
To view the obituary and to send condolences, visit the online tribute.
As June marks Stroke Awareness Month, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre proudly celebrates a decade of implementing the Code Stroke process — a lifesaving protocol that has profoundly enhanced stroke care and outcomes. This month, we honor the innovations, dedication, and teamwork that have contributed to saving countless lives and improving the quality of care for stroke patients.
Stay tuned throughout the month as we share staff features of those who play a part in Code Stroke daily.
A Decade of Innovation in Stroke Care
Since its inception ten years ago, the Code Stroke process has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the emergency response to stroke incidents. Streamlining identification and treatment procedures has significantly reduced the time it takes to deliver critical care, improving recovery rates and outcomes for patients.
Lifesaving Collaboration and Impact
Our Hospital’s commitment to enhancing stroke care through the Code Stroke initiative has brought together a dedicated team of health care professionals. These experts work tirelessly to ensure rapid diagnosis and treatment, leveraging the latest advancements in medical technology and protocols. Over the past decade, this collaborative approach has not only saved lives but also reduced the long-term impacts of stroke, enabling patients to regain their independence and enjoy a better quality of life.
“The success of the Code Stroke program is a direct result of the incredible collaboration across disciplines — from EMS to emergency, radiology, and neurology,” states Dr. Amro Lahlouh, Neurologist and lead of the Code Stroke working group. “This unified approach ensures that every patient receives timely, high-quality care when every second truly matters.”
Looking to the Future
As we commemorate this milestone, our Hospital remains committed to advancing stroke care through continuous improvement. We are exploring system optimization and methodologies to further enhance the Code Stroke process, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of stroke treatment and care.
This June, we invite the community to join us in raising awareness about the recognition, prevention, and treatment of stroke. Together, we can continue to make strides in saving lives and improving outcomes for stroke patients.
Donations supporting stroke care can be directed to the STROKE FUND through the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation at healthsciencesfoundation.ca/donate or by calling 807-345-4673. For more information on stroke care in Northwestern Ontario, visit www.nwostroke.ca or email nwostroke@tbh.net.
Join Annette Klement, Cultural Safety Educator, for a Lunch and Learn on the 7 Grandfather Teachings. This session will provide a basic overview of what the 7 Grandfather Teachings represent, as well as how to use them to connect and support your patient’s care. Lunch will be provided.
Registration is required for this event. To register, email Annette at tbrhsc.culturalsafetyeducator@tbh.net.
This event is eligible for the Indigenous History Month raffle. To enter the raffle, print off the ticket below and fill out the information. At the event, find Annette and get your ticket signed. At the end of the month, submit all your signed tickets to Annette via email at tbrhsc.culturalsafetyeducator@tbh.net or interoffice mail. The draw will take place at the beginning of July. Good luck!
Hannah was a Phlebotomist who started at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) in 2021, her compassion, kindness and resilience touched everyone she met.
She made such an impact on her co-workers sharing all of her adventures and positive attitude , she was someone who truly listened, who made people feel seen and valued. In the face of her own battle she didn’t withdraw, she rose. She found purpose beyond her pain, pouring her strength into raising her awareness for appendix cancer selling her Tough Lady #DELEY Strong candles and donating proceeds to the Northern Cancer Fund.
She was strong but had a rare glow of someone who made the world, gentler, warmer and better. Though her time with us was far too short, her impact will echo in the lives she touched the love she gave and the legacy and compassion she leaves behind.
A Celebration Of Life will be held Tuesday, June 10, from12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Goods and Co. 251 Red River Rd. Our thoughts go out to her family for their loss. As a sign of respect and mourning, TBRHSC flags will be put to half mast on Tuesday June 10.
Hannah Jeannene Deley June 23, 1999 – May 21, 2025
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Hannah Jeannene Deley, who left this world far too soon at the age of 25, on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Hospice, surrounded by those who loved her most.
Hannah was born, completing our family and joining her big brother Ben. Hannah was determined and ready for adventure from day one. She was “our little miracle”.
Hannah attended Vance Chapman School. Her zest for life and joy of friendship evident from the start. As Hannah started high school at Superior CVI, she played basketball and started Competitive Cheerleading. She enjoyed cheerleading, excelling at the sport, and was able to attend a National tournament with the Dynamite Cheer Allstars in Sherbrooke Quebec. Hannah was a hard worker. She started working at the Italian Hall first. She also worked at Shell full serve gas station, taking pride when she connected with one of the customers, usually the seniors. Hannah had a big heart and a large capacity for empathy.
Hannah attended Confederation College in the phlebotomist program. A great match to Hannah’s caring nature. Upon graduation, she worked at Life Labs for a short time, until she was hired by Thunder Bay Regional Hospital where she worked until her leave due to illness.
Hannah lived her life with unmatched vibrancy, courage, and compassion. She was tenacious. A free spirit with an adventurous soul, Hannah found joy in every corner of life — from hiking winding trails and traveling to new places, to dancing freely at concerts and festivals. Her love for adventure was only matched by the love she had for those around her, including her loyal dog, Ozzy, who never left her side.
Hannah was a beacon of strength. From the moment of her cancer diagnosis, she faced her battle with the heart of a warrior — always with grace, courage, and unwavering hope. Her fierce determination inspired everyone who knew her. Demonstrated by her candle fundraiser bringing awareness to Appendiceal cancer. Her generosity and kindness left a lasting mark on every life she touched.
She shared a rare and beautiful love with her soulmate, Jordan Owca, who remained her rock and her light through every chapter of her journey. Hannah was also the deeply loved daughter of Peter Deley and Lisa Johnson Deley, and a cherished sister to Ben Deley and Michelle Tallon Deley.
Hannah is survived by her devoted families, countless aunts, uncles and cousins, her large and loving circle of friends, and all those whose lives were made better simply by knowing her. She is pre-deceased by many generations of loved ones, friends and family, of note Hannah’s stepfather Frank Vidotto, Jean “Nanny” Johnson, Grandma Irene Daggett, and Aunt Cindy Wright. Hannah’s compassion, laughter, and fearless zest for life will never be forgotten.
Many thanks to all the medical teams and caregivers in Thunder Bay and Toronto who supported Hannah, Jordan and the family throughout each stage of her illness, including the doctors and staff at Thunder Bay Regional Cancer Care and St Joseph’s hospice. Your thoughtful care and compassion will not be forgotten.
A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, June 10 at Goods and Co. Market, with family and friends gathering at 12:30 p.m. and Tributes beginning at 1:00 p.m. Parking is available in the parkade across from the Market.
Though her time with us was far too brief, Hannah’s legacy of love, strength, and joy will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her.
In keeping with the spirit of paying it forward, something Hannah believed in strongly, please consider donations to Thunder Bay Humane Society or the Salvation Army in lieu of flowers. Consider volunteering for the Cancer Society. With much appreciation.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Westfort Chapel, 420 West Gore Street at James.
Curious how our workplace is doing? Check out the leaderboard to see our progress! If you haven’t signed up yet, there’s still time to join—start logging your active commutes and help boost our total kilometers.
There are some great prizes up for grabs this year! The more often you replace your car with a sustainable commute, the better your chances of winning. Each week, five lucky participants will win a $50 e-gift card.
Visit the FAQ page for prize details and start logging your commutes today!
Did you know that nearly half of Thunder Bay residents live within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from work? And almost 50% of rush hour trips are under 5 km—yet many people still drive gas-powered cars for these short distances.
This week, why not replace one of those short trips with a sustainable commute? Whether it’s walking, biking, or taking transit, it’s an easy way to reduce emissions and support a healthier community.
As construction on the Cardiovascular Surgery Program advances, the final staging and setup of the construction area will begin Thursday, June 12. Changes to Hospital access are highlighted below and will be in place for the duration of the construction period.
Major Impacts
Road Closure
A portion of Ron Saddington Way (main roadway through the front of the Hospital) and the roadway to the Medical Centre front entrance (current temporary pick-up and drop-off location) will be closed. There will be no thoroughfare along the front (west side) of the Hospital until further notice.
Pick Up and Drop Off Area
The new pick-up and drop-off area will be located in the Fish (A3) parking lot (see map).
Hospital Access
All patients, visitors, and staff can still enter the Hospital via the West Entrance.
Please refer to the map showing Hospital access and the areas closed for construction.
For the safety of all patients, visitors, and staff, please respect and follow all construction fencing, barricades, safety notices, and wayfinding signage. Construction areas will be clearly marked, and access will be strictly limited to authorized personnel only. We kindly ask that everyone use designated walkways and remain vigilant when navigating near the construction site.
Learn more about this transformative project and get the answers to some frequently asked questions about the construction and parking at TBRHSC.
We understand that these temporary changes may cause some inconvenience, and we sincerely appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to expand and enhance cardiovascular care services in our region.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to advancing patient care at TBRHSC.
