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Medical Considerations for Kihkosimowin (Fasting Ceremony)
A Nehiyô maskihkiwiyiniw (Plains Cree Family Doctor’s) Perspective
Join Us for a Community Presentation and Webinar!
In response to community interest, Noongwa Wellness is pleased to host a special evening presentation with an in-person and virtual option.
Event Details
Date: April 23, 2026
Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Maadookii Seniors Centre, 33 Maadookii Cres., Neyaahsiinigmiing, Ont.
Format: In-person (limited spaces available) and virtual (Zoom) options available.
*Open to Indigenous peoples and health professionals.
About the Presentation
Join Dr. James Makokis for a culturally grounded discussion to support safe participation in fasting ceremonies.
Topics include:
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Kihkosimowin (Fasting Ceremony) as part of Indigenous health systems
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How fasting affects the body
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Medical considerations for participants and helpers
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Medication considerations during fasting
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Planning for potential medical emergencies
This session is intended to support community members, helpers, and participants in making informed decisions grounded in both medical knowledge and cultural understanding.
About the Speaker
Dr. James Makokis is a Nehiyô two-spirit physician from Saddle Lake Cree Nation in Treaty 6 Territory. His work focuses on Indigenous health systems, family medicine, and gender-affirming care.
He was the inaugural Medical Director at Shkaabe Makwa at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health—the first Indigenous health centre designed to lead transformation in Indigenous mental health across Canada.
Dr. Makokis is also an Associate Clinical Professor at the University of Alberta and Adjunct Faculty at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health.
