Laurentian University and NOSM University Partner with Noojmowin Teg Health Centre to Advance Anishinaabe Brain-Heart Health Research with $1.35M CIHR Grant

Laurentian University and NOSM University are proud to announce a significant research award from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). Dr. Marion Maar, cross-appointed to Laurentian University and Professor in the Human Sciences Division and Medical Anthropologist at NOSM University, has been awarded $1.354 million to collaborate with Noojmowin Teg Health Centre over four years as the Nominated Principal Applicant for a groundbreaking Indigenous health initiative.

The project, titled “Naanaagidewendimowin – DREAM Wellness: Co-Creating an Anishinaabe Brain-Heart Health and Wellness Model of Care for Elders, Designed to Transform Clinical Practice based on Two-Eyed Seeing,” brings together a collaborative team of researchers, health professionals, and community leaders from Laurentian University, NOSM University, Noojmowin Teg Health Centre, Manitoulin Health Centre, Health Sciences North, and the University of Toronto.

Grounded in Naanaagidewendimowin, an Anishinaabe concept centered on the integration of mind, heart, and thinking, the project reflects a deep, shared commitment among Laurentian University, NOSM University, and Noojmowin Teg Health Centre. Together, the partners are advancing research that bridge Indigenous and Western knowledge systems to address community-led health priorities.

“Noojmowin Teg Health Centre, ‘a place of healing,’ is proud to co-lead this vital research initiative,” says Debbie Francis, Executive Director of Noojmowin Teg Health Centre. “Our team witnesses every day the structural barriers and challenges Anishinaabe Elders face when accessing dementia  and heart health care. This initiative  addresses those longstanding service gaps by developing a wellness model grounded in Anishinaabe knowledge, shaped directly by the experiences of our Elders, families, and care providers.”

“Many Anishinaabe elders experience gaps in brain and heart health services. The factors that impact brain and heart health outcomes are complex, but our team is committed to advancing health-care practices by co-creating innovative, culturally-safe models of care,” says Dr. Marion Maar, Nominated Principal Applicant. “To accomplish this, we will collaborate with communities, elders, and care providers to consider both cultural knowledge and clinical evidence to enhance a range of services. Our collaboration will begin with a focus on social wellness, prevention, treatment, aftercare, and transitions in care.”

“Laurentian University is immensely proud to collaborate with NOSM University on this significant CIHR grant. Dr. Maar’s DREAM Wellness initiative demonstrates the strength of our shared research ecosystem and our dedication to advancing Indigenous-led health solutions. We look forward to seeing the transformative impact this work will have on Elder care and clinical practice,” says Dr. Tammy Eger, Vice-President, Research, Laurentian University.

“This CIHR investment recognizes the importance of research that is grounded in partnership with communities and responsive to the unique health priorities of Northern Ontario. Dr. Maar and the entire research team exemplify the collaborative, socially accountable approach to research that defines NOSM University. We are proud to support work that advances Indigenous-led innovation and has the potential to improve health outcomes for future generations,” says Dr. David Marsh, Vice-President, Research, NOSM University.

“Advancing health care that is culturally safe, community-driven, and meets the needs of Indigenous Peoples is vital. The Naanaagidewendimowin – DREAM Wellness project brings together all the critical pieces to identify and understand the support we need for Indigenous Elders in our health systems. This investment of over $1.3 million will support the development of specialized care models, leading to healthier outcomes and better support for generations to come. When we recognize Indigenous healing practices and integrate them into our health systems, it strengthens and ultimately builds a more equitable health care system, especially for Elders across Northern Ontario. I am so pleased to see this research being done through this CIHR grant,” says Viviane Lapointe, Member of Parliament Sudbury.

Research Team Highlights

Nominated Principal Applicant: Dr. Marion Maar (Professor, NOSM University / cross-appointed, Laurentian University)

Principal Applicants:

• Debbie Francis (Executive Director, Noojmowin Teg Health Centre)
• Dr. Sheldon Tobe (Hypertension and Nephrology; Professor of Medicine, University of Toronto and NOSM University)
• Dr. Sharlene Webkamigad (Assistant Professor, School of Indigenous Relations, Laurentian University / Assistant Professor, Division of Clinical Sciences, NOSM University)

Co-Applicants:

• Dr. Gayle Adams-Carpino, Human Sciences, NOSM University
• Dr. Rony Atoui, Cardiac Surgeon, Health Sciences North and Clinical Sciences, NOSM University
• Benjamin Maar-Jackson, Medical Student, NOSM University
• Dr. Darrel Manitowabi, Human Services, NOSM University
• Henry Pitawanakwat, Knowledge Keeper, Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory
• Dr. Maurianne Reade, Manitoulin Central Family Health Team and Clinical Sciences, NOSM University
• Dr. Diana Urajnik, Director, Centre for Rural and Northern Health Research, Laurentian University and Human Sciences, NOSM University

The DREAM Wellness project will focus on co-creating models of care designed specifically for Anishinaabe Elders, setting a new standard for brain and heart healthcare across clinical settings.