Indigenous care support worker named Co-op Community Champion

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — February’s Co-op Community Champion feels the nomination means her work in Indigenous care at the Fort St. John Hospital is being recognized.

Shara-Lynn Singh began her work approximately a year ago, and told Energeticcity.ca she is “grateful” to be named for the honour.

Singh has Indigenous roots, being raised by her great-grandmother and having Cree and Tahltan Nation ancestry.

“Growing up, there were issues with family addiction and absent parents and the history of residential schools,” said Singh. “It definitely had an impact on my family unit.

“[Learning] about it has been vital, and played a large part in me wanting to help other people.”

Singh’s role at the hospital involves working with Indigenous patients in all units, from emergency to ICU and even alongside patients at Peace Villa.

“Every day is something new. It’s super busy,” said Singh. “We do referrals and family meetings and help [Indigenous patients] understand medical jargon. We take part in their care plans.

“If they want to go to a treatment centre or need help with applying for [treaty] status. Things like that.”

The 25-year-old was born and raised in Fort St. John and is currently completing a certificate in Indigenous human support work at Northern Lights College.

Her nomination says Singh “goes above and beyond for so many people she works with,” and she “connects with the patients, their families and any outside organization that can assist…this young woman is a true inspiration to so many.”

As part of her win, she will receive a gift card of up to $100 for Fort St. John Co-op.

To nominate someone to be named Co-op Community Champion, please see the nomination website. As well as the Co-op voucher, the winner is also featured in an article on Energeticcity.ca.