Photo by Gabriel Tovar on Unsplash
Listen to the first Storytelling Video Series for the Bi pi maadzing zaagidwin teg jichaaming / Circle of Life in the Spirit of Love project. Developed by Surrey Place, the series reflects voices and perspectives from Indigenous caregivers and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in Northwestern Ontario.
Our first episode features Joyce, a mother advocating for and supporting her son with autism in Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation, also known as Big Trout Lake, Ontario.
The music is by Rest You Sleeping Giant (CC BY 4.0)
Content Warning
The content covered throughout this video includes, discussion of colonial violence, trauma, adverse childhood experiences and, mental health challenges. The material may be triggering for some audiences, so viewer discretion is advised. If you need additional support after viewing this video, please seek help from your colleagues, Elders, or counsellors as needed. A list of resources is also highlighted below.
Here are a few tips for self-care during this video.
- When needed, take time to step away and get grounded (take some deep breaths, get a glass of water, and bring your attention to your body and your immediate environment).
- Explore the content at your own pace!
- Reflect on and process your thoughts in a journal or discuss with a trusted friend or colleague.
- If you find something challenging or need support, reach out to someone you trust, or explore the resources listed below:
- Hope for Wellness Help Line - 1-855-242-3310 or online chat
- Kids Help Phone - 1-800-668-6868
- First Step Women’s Shelter (Dryden) - 807-737-1438
- Talk4Healing - Call or text 1-855-544-HEAL, or visit their live chat
- Crisis Response Line - Text 741741
- Crisis Response Services Kenora Rainy River District - 1-866-888-8988
About Surrey Place
Surrey Place provides specialized clinical services that are responsive to individual’s needs and promote health and well-being in the Toronto region.
We help children and adults living with developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, fetal alcohol syndrome and visual impairments reach their full potential. We offer a variety of groups and workshops for clients, families and caregivers, as well as extensive education and consultation services to community agencies.
About the MMW Program
The Mashkikiiwininiwag Mazinaatesijigan Wichiiwewin (MMW) Clinical Videoconferencing Program offers clinical services using videoconferencing technology to adults with diagnosed or suspected intellectual and developmental disabilities in Northwestern Ontario. Since 2005, our team has collaborated with Northern community partners, including Sioux Lookout First Nation Health Authority and Community Living Dryden Sioux Lookout, to ensure quality and cultural responsiveness during service delivery.
For more information about the MMW Program connect with us:
Contact our Intake Line
416-925-5141 ext 2845 or1-833-999-9669
Email us at
Contact DSO Northern Region
1-855-376-6673