Sacred Fire Ceremony Held Ahead of Fancsy Family Hospital Groundbreaking
23-6-2026
A Sacred Fire Ceremony was held at the future site of the Fancsy Family Hospital, marking an important moment of reflection, respect, and reconciliation before construction officially begins.
Led by Traditional Knowledge Keeper Elder Mike Hopkins and Traditional Helper Leon Shipman, the ceremony brought community and project partners together with hospital leadership and staff to honour the land’s original stewards, acknowledge its history, and seek blessings for the future hospital that will serve generations of patients and families across the region.
The Sacred Fire Ceremony is a significant Indigenous tradition that provides an opportunity for prayer, healing, gratitude, and connection to the land. Participants gathered around the sacred fire to reflect on the importance of building a healthcare facility that is welcoming, inclusive, and respectful of Indigenous cultures and communities.
WATCH a video below from the ceremony including an interview with Elder Mike Hopkins.
The ceremony builds upon ongoing commitment to strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities and incorporating Indigenous perspectives throughout the planning and redevelopment of the hospital.
“We are grateful to the Indigenous leaders who shared their teachings and guidance today and honoured to work alongside First Nations Communities and Indigenous partners throughout the planning process to ensure a culturally safe and welcoming environment at Windsor Regional Hospital,” said Kristin Kennedy, President & CEO, Windsor Regional Hospital.
The Fancsy Family Hospital will stand not only as a place of innovation and clinical excellence, but also as a symbol of healing, respect, and community. Current plans include an Indigenous healing space, prominently located at the front of the building, with access to an outdoor healing garden and storage for traditional medicine supplies.
The space is designed to accommodate traditional ceremonies including smudging and meetings with family, caregivers and staff.
The Fancsy Family Hospital Project is a transformative initiative that will redefine healthcare delivery in Windsor-Essex County with modern, safe healthcare infrastructure. Earlier this year, following extensive engagement with national and international hospital builders, Infrastructure Ontario confirmed the project will be delivered in three phases due to the size and complexity of the state-of-the-art facility.
Groundbreaking for Phase 1 is anticipated this summer and the tendering process to select a partner to deliver Phase 2 is currently underway.