County honours healthcare professionals
June 3, 2025
The Municipality of Inverness County honoured the winners of its first annual Awards for Excellence in Healthcare at a gala event in Chéticamp on April 23.
Close to 140 community members gathered at the Canton Culturel de Chéticamp to pay tribute to the exceptional work of healthcare professionals across Inverness County.
Winners were chosen in seven categories, each receiving a one-of-a-kind stained-glass ornament handcrafted by local Acadian artist, Polycarpe LeBlanc of Polycarpe Glass Art. The ornaments were designed to reflect the beauty of each award winner’s home communities: a scenic view of Le Buttereau for Chéticamp honourees, and a depiction of Margaree Island for those from Inverness.
Two special awards were also presented during the evening. Heather Gillis, site lead at Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital, and Johanne Doucette, site lead at Sacred Heart Community Health Centre, were both honoured for their exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to patient care.
This celebration marks the beginning of what will become an annual tradition—one that shines a light on the incredible healthcare providers of Inverness County and the invaluable services they offer every day.
Read on to learn more about the well-deserving winners.
Outstanding Collaborative Care Team
CANCER CARE CLINIC (ICMH)
The Cancer Care Clinic at Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital (ICMH) is making it possible for Inverness County cancer patients to receive treatment in a hospital not only closer to home, but also to family and loved ones. This translates to less travel time, fewer expenses, and can also be a critical component in the treatment and healing process for cancer patients and their caregivers.
This past year, the clinic welcomed 106 patients who made a remarkable 874 visits. These numbers reflect not only the increasing need for local cancer care, but also the trust and gratitude patients feel toward the clinic’s dedicated team.
For many, the clinic has become more than a treatment center—it’s a place of connection and compassion. Patients often speak of the staff as an extended family, citing their kindness, professionalism, and unwavering support throughout each step of their journey.
Outstanding Physician
DR. RAYMOND LOK
Dr. Lok has been a cornerstone of healthcare in Inverness County since 1985, serving as both a family physician and the region’s sole anesthesiologist. A tireless advocate for patient care, he launched a vital after-hours clinic, easing emergency room strain and ensuring timely access to healthcare. Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Lok is the backbone of local surgery, enabling visiting specialists to operate in Inverness. He also leads care at Inverary Manor and remains a trusted mentor to fellow healthcare workers. Dedicated, skilled, and compassionate, Dr. Lok is the definition of commitment to his patients and community.
Outstanding Nurse Practitioner
MARY ANDERSON
Mary Anderson has been a constant presence in healthcare in Inverness County for nearly 40 years. Graduating from St. F.X. University in 1981 with her nursing degree, she spent her early years at Halifax Infirmary before coming to Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital (ICMH) in 1986, serving as nursing supervisor and head nurse until 2000. A trailblazer, Anderson became one of the first nurse practitioners in Cape Breton in 2003, when she brought her expertise to the Inverness Health Centre, where she continues to provide care for Inverness County patients. Her busy work schedule doesn’t prevent her from giving to her community in other ways. She is a member of the ICMH Hospital Foundation, the Inverness County Accessibility Committee, the St. Margaret’s Parish Finance Committee, and the Inverness Pickleball Association.
Outstanding Nurse
EDITH MACKAY
Edith MacKay, RN, has devoted 50 years to the Sacred Heart Community Health Centre in Chéticamp, serving primarily in the Emergency Department and Medical Unit. Her career embodies compassion, professionalism, and steadfast dedication, earning her deep respect from colleagues, patients, and the broader community. Edith’s extensive experience ensures exceptional patient care, and her empathetic approach has profoundly impacted countless lives. Beyond her clinical expertise, she serves as a pillar of support and guidance within the healthcare team. Celebrating this 50-year milestone, Edith’s enduring commitment continues to inspire and significantly influence the nursing profession.
Outstanding Long Term or Palliative Care Professional
LORI ANN GILLIS
Lori Ann is a beacon of compassion and resilience in Nova Scotia’s palliative care community. Renowned for her holistic approach, she supports patients and their families physically, emotionally, spiritually, and mentally during life’s most challenging transitions. Her unwavering dedication led her to return to palliative care after exploring other opportunities, underscoring her commitment to this demanding field. In recognition of her exceptional service, Lori Ann received the Mona Baryluk Clinical Award of Excellence at the Cancer Symposium in Sydney on September 28, 2018, highlighting her advocacy and tireless efforts to ensure the best possible care for her patients.
Outstanding Allied Health Professional
YVON PINO
For over two decades, Yvon has been a pillar of strength and compassion as a paramedic in Chéticamp, serving his community with unwavering dedication. Bilingual in French and English, he ensures every patient feels understood and cared for in their most vulnerable moments. Yvon brings professionalism, empathy, and exceptional care to his work with Emergency Health Services. Over the years, Yvon has enriched his community by organizing fireworks for different occasions, as well as mock accidents and lectures with the Prevent Alcohol & Risk-Related Trauma in Youth (P.A.R.T.Y.) program at local schools. An executive member and building manager at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 32, he is a medical first responder (MFR) facilitator for the Chéticamp and Pleasant Bay Volunteer Fire Department, and still responds with the Chéticamp department as an MFR.
Outstanding Young Healthcare Professional
GRAHAM MCISAAC
Graham is the heartbeat of the Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital (ICMH) pharmacy. As a dedicated pharmacist and team leader, he goes above and beyond every single day. Whether it’s weekdays, weekends, or after-hours emergencies, he’s always just a phone call away – often dropping everything to rush back when needed. His unwavering commitment, expertise, and compassion make him an irreplaceable asset to ICMH. With integrity and a drive to provide the best care, Graham sets the gold standard for healthcare professionals. STOP