Healing Hearts: Supporting An Indigenous Family Through Loss

Hi, my name is Joanne and I am fundraising on behalf of my Sister, Corine Guerin and her son Robin, to help raise the funds for them to travel from Ontario to British Colombia to spend the final days with their Mother/Grandmother, Mary.

Corine was informed in 2021 that her Mother, Mary Paulina Vincent, had been diagnosed with Leukemia and would be undergoing chemotherapy treatments in British Columbia. In November 2024, Corine was informed that Mary was not responding to the chemo and the treatments would be stopped. At this time, Mary is receiving palliative care in her home in Vernon BC.

Mary was born on February 10, 1947 in Pembroke Ontario and belongs to the Algonquin Indigenous community, Bear Clan. In her younger years, Mary was a frontline member of the American Indian Movement who brought out the rifles. She is a brave woman who has always been actively involved in standing up for the rights of her Indigenous people and their heritage.

She was employed at the Casino in Sault St Marie and fulfilled her creativity with her culture's heritage by doing beadwork, making regalia for her 5 children, 9 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. She also sold her crafts in the community, earning extra money to support herself.

Prior to moving to B.C., Mary was offered the position of Native Coordinator at the Royal Ontario Museum. She declined this position and instead, moved to B.C. to spend time with her family and returned to school to become a P.S.W. She worked for 12+ years in an old age home in Vernon B.C. caring for the elderly.

Mary is the matriarch, a beacon of strength and resilience who has stood as a cornerstone of her community. Her unwavering spirit and dedication to her people is legendary. She fearlessly championed for their rights and her voice is a powerful instrument against injustice.

As a devoted caregiver, she nurtured the wisdom and experiences of the elders, ensuring their stories and traditions are passed down to future generations. Her influence permeates every aspect of life, inspiring others to embrace their heritage and fight for a brighter future. She is the heart and soul of her family and community, a living testament to the enduring strength of Indigenous women and the profound impact they have on the world.

The funds raised in this campaign will cover airfare/travel expenses, food and accomodations for Corine and her son Robin, to spend 3 weeks in Vernon B.C. with Mary. They hope to be in BC for Mary's birthday on Feb. 10, 2025.

In honor of Mary and her devotion to family and what she has contributed to me personally in my life, I am offering a complimentary PDF version of my book titled: "Radiant Resilience 7 Simple Ways Women Can Say No And Thrive" to anyone who contributes to this Go Fund Me campaign.

Please email me through the "Contact" link in this campaign to request a copy of the PDF. You will receive it in your email.