Not Soon Forgotten

August 25, 2022

Phoebe Grant, AVC 2023, travelled to Port Hope Simpson in 2022 as one of the student participants on the Chinook Project. As part of the experience, the students craft various pieces of reflective writing.

A week has now passed since we left Port Hope Simpson, and there has not been one day since then that I have not reminisced about a fond memory to a family member or friend. Before this trip I was excited to have a new experience in a new place and practice some veterinary medicine along the way, but I could not have anticipated what I actually learned from visiting Port Hope Simpson.

Phoebe with a patient

From the moment we arrived the community embraced us as one of their own and were incredibly welcoming. We were immediately offered kayaking adventures, hikes, and boat rides, and we had not even started working yet! Once the clinic had started, I was able to meet even more community members and their furry friends. At times we were busy, causing clients to have long wait times. People also had to travel far to bring their pets. Through it all, everyone was so kind and patient. The amount of appreciation I received from the community was more than I have ever experienced before. After every client and patient, I walked away with a smile on my face and a full heart.

I was also overwhelmed by the generosity that was shown to us. Every day the community brought countless delicious meals and desserts to the clinic. The time and effort everyone took to cook us meals was so generous. Outside of clinic days we were also met with many opportunities offered to us by the community. We went on a boat tour, saw icebergs, went jet-skiing, and hiked up “Blow me Down”. We also learned about the history of the people of Port Hope Simpson and their resiliency. I also really appreciated how members of the community shared parts of their culture with us. 

Port Hope Simpson

There were many kind words spoken to us during our stay in Port Hope Simpson and one statement has stuck with me: “There are many people and animals’ lives you guys have touched that won’t soon be forgotten”. I could say the same thing about the people and animals of Port Hope Simpson! I will never forget my experience on the Chinook Project. It has reminded me of why I wanted to practice veterinary medicine. I have endless appreciation for the community of Port Hope Simpson and will continue to carry the kindness shown to me wherever I go.