2026 Tony H. Jocko Memorial Heroes in Health Award winners announced

By Jesse Johnson

SAULT STE. MARIE, ONTARIO — The 2026 Tony H. Jocko Memorial Heroes in Health Award winners were presented at the 12th Annual Anishinabek Nation Health Conference. This year’s conference, Sacred Responsibility: Advancing Indigenous Health Priorities, saw health professionals come together to learn, laugh, and connect from October 27-29 at the Quattro Hotel and Conference Centre in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont.

Anishinabek Nation Interim Health Director Kimberly Lalonde introduced the awards by remembering the late Tony Jocko-baa.

“Tony-baa was an impactful figure, not just in health policy, but for the Anishinabek Nation as a whole. His work as our Federal Health Policy Analyst has had a lasting influence on our communities and leadership. His dedication to advocating for the health and well-being of the 39 First Nations speaks volumes about his commitment,” said Lalonde. “Tony-baa was a dedicated and devoted person who worked vigorously for the Anishinabek Nation. He had a wonderful sense of humour and treated everyone with kindness, respect, and compassion, both personally and professionally. Today, we celebrate and honour Tony-baa and his contributions through the recognition of seven individuals who share that same dedication to providing quality care in First Nations health.”

Cheryl Shawana, citizen of Nipissing First Nation, was nominated by both Dr. Brenda Restoule, Psychologist and Consultant, and the Nipissing First Nation Mental Health & Addiction Department.

Shawana is the Mental Health Therapist at Giyak-Moseng — The Right Path Counseling and Prevention Service in Nipissing First Nation. Her skills in program development and commitment to strong, ethical clinical services resulted in a community-driven, culturally safe, and evidence-based service that has served Nipissing First Nation for 27 years. Under Shawana’s guidance and leadership, The Right Path has continually grown and adjusted to meet the changing needs of the community.

Shawana was a leading member of the team who created Niiwiidootadmin, a community-based crisis response program that builds the skills of community members to support each other during times of crisis. She is committed to supporting others and building capacity in communities. She supported the early implementation of the first mental wellness team that has now expanded across the country.

Kathy MacLeod-Beaver, citizen of Alderville First Nation, was nominated by the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation Chief and Council.

Through her many years of service as the Indigenous Navigator at the Central East Regional Cancer Program at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, MacLeod-Beaver has provided outstanding care, dedication, and compassion, and her traditional knowledge has transformed the processes and systems implemented at all levels of leadership within the hospital.

MacLeod-Beaver has made a meaningful difference in the lives of patients, families, and community members facing some of the most difficult moments of their lifetime. Her work has consistently reflected professionalism, kindness, patience, and a deep commitment to ensuring that people feel supported, respected, and cared for throughout their cancer treatment journey.

Leila Macumber, citizen of Serpent River First Nation, was nominated by Natasha Becker, Director of Operations for Serpent River First Nation.

Macumber has dedicated nearly three decades of service while demonstrating an extraordinary level of commitment, loyalty, and passion to her community members, while also ensuring families receive the care and support they deserve.

Macumber began her career as a health nurse, working directly with community members and families. Her front-line experience gave her a strong understanding of the community’s health needs and the importance of providing quality First Nation health care with dignity, compassion, and respect. Today, she provides leadership while overseeing both Health and Social Services. In this role, Macumber recognizes the important connection between health, social supports, and overall community wellness and works to ensure these services come together to meet the needs of community members and families.

Lena Andre, Citizen of Michipicoten First Nation, was nominated by Diane Purser, Executive Officer, on behalf of Michipicoten First Nation’s Chief and Council.

Andre dedicated nearly 34 years of her life to providing health services for Michipicoten First Nation. She began working for the community on March 15, 1992, and continued serving Michipicoten First Nation members until her retirement earlier this year. Her remarkable career represents far more than years of employment; it represents a lifetime of compassion and commitment to the Nation.

Throughout her career, Andre touched the lives of countless members and families. She supported Michipicoten First Nation members during some of their most difficult and vulnerable moments, always treating them with kindness, dignity, patience, and respect. She was more than a health employee; she was a trusted and familiar presence who members knew they could turn to.

Lorraine Cook, citizen of Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek, was nominated by Monique McCreary.

Cook has provided exceptional dedication to improving the health and well-being of individuals and families in her community through her role as our community health service worker for almost 30 years.

One of the most meaningful examples of her work is the nutrition programming she provides, including opportunities for community members to cook, prepare, and store food. These programs provide much more than a meal; they give people practical skills and knowledge that they can use in their everyday lives. By teaching people how to prepare and preserve nutritious food, she helps families build greater confidence and independence when it comes to making healthy choices.

Sandra Bisaillon, citizen of Thessalon First Nation, was nominated by Chief Robert Simon Sr.

Bisaillon consistently goes above and beyond in her role as a Personal Support Worker, providing compassionate, sensitive care to Elders, families, and individuals in need. Her commitment to building a strong, healthy community is evident in her daily work. She not only assists clients with their physical needs but also supports their emotional well-being.

One of Bisaillon’s most significant achievements is her advocacy for improved access to home care services for community members. She has worked closely with health directors and other professionals to identify gaps in care and propose solutions, resulting in more coordinated and responsive support for those living at home.

Janine Knott, citizen of Curve Lake First Nation, was nominated by Chochi Knott and the Anishinabek Nation Health Secretariat staff.

Knott is a proud Anishinaabekwe, daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, auntie, and friend to many across Turtle Island. She was the Community Development Support Worker for many years, building capacity to promote holistic health and wellness based on the unique needs and interests of each of Anishinabek Nation’s 39 member First Nations. Her collaboration with Community Wellness Workers has paved the way for successful programs and service delivery.

Knott brought many years of joy and laughter working alongside Anishinabek Nation staff at the Curve Lake Satellite office. She was the main contact for the overall operation of the office administration, collaborating with many suppliers to ensure the office was well stocked and the equipment was in good working order. She was always eager to assist her colleagues regardless of the department or task required.