It is National Nursing Week and Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) is highlighting a few of our nurses and their achievements. Meet Martina White, a Registered Practical Nurse at our Hospital.

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Martina White is a registered practical nurse at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC). Her community is Pays Plat First Nation, and she was born and raised in Thunder Bay.

After graduating from the Registered Practical Nursing program in 2018, Martina spent five years working in long-term care. During that time, she witnessed firsthand the unique challenges and systemic barriers faced by Indigenous residents within the health care system. These experiences deeply impacted Martina and strengthened her commitment to advocating for culturally safe and equitable care.

In January 2024, Martina began her current role as an Indigenous Care Coordinator at TBRHSC. In this position, she supports and advocates for Indigenous patients throughout their Hospital stay, with a strong focus on safe transitions, discharge planning, and continuity of care within their home communities.

“I understand that hospital admissions and care transitions can be overwhelming and vulnerable times for patients and families,” says Martina. “I am dedicated to ensuring Indigenous patients feel supported, respected, seen, and heard. By promoting culturally safer practices and working collaboratively with patients, families, and health care teams, I strive to help create a health care experience that is compassionate, inclusive, and grounded in respect for Indigenous identities, cultures, and traditions.”