Members of the Heiltsuk Nation in Bella Bella, British Columbia, are rejoicing over the birth of baby Anthony Bennett Johnson, marking the first Heiltsuk baby born on Heiltsuk territory in quite some time. Adding to the significance of the occasion, the delivering doctor was also from the Heiltsuk community.
The local hospital in Bella Bella, a small village on Campbell Island approximately 480 kilometers northwest of Vancouver, typically does not handle deliveries, prompting expectant parents to seek higher-level medical facilities as their due dates approach. However, Nicole Johnson unexpectedly went into labor at 34 weeks on a Sunday.
Due to adverse weather conditions grounding air ambulances and all ferries being fully booked, Dr. Don Wilson, an obstetrician-gynecologist of Heiltsuk descent, received a urgent call from a military flight surgeon at Comox Valley Hospital in Comox, British Columbia. Without hesitation, Wilson swiftly made arrangements to depart for Bella Bella.
With only 45 minutes to reach the military base, Wilson anticipated potential challenges due to the lack of specialized delivery equipment at the Bella Bella hospital. Recognizing the need for an anesthesiologist for a potential cesarean section, Wilson brought along his life partner, who is an anesthesiologist practicing in Comox Valley.
The medical team at ƛ̓uxválásu̓ilas Heiltsuk Hospital swiftly mobilized to perform the necessary C-section. Wilson commended the dedication of the staff, highlighting their commitment to ensuring a successful delivery despite the limited facilities, ultimately welcoming a healthy baby into the world at 1:35 a.m.
Both Johnson and her newborn are reported to be in good health following the delivery. Max Johnson, Nicole’s uncle, expressed the family’s joy at having the baby born in their community, underscoring the significance of a Heiltsuk doctor overseeing the birth.
Reflecting on the emotional importance of a Heiltsuk baby being born on their ancestral land, Wilson emphasized the deep connection Indigenous peoples have with their territories. He stressed the significance of maintaining a robust public healthcare system and encouraging more Indigenous individuals to pursue careers in healthcare.
While the hospital in Bella Bella had ceased deliveries around the year 2000, Wilson believes the recent birth has brought a sense of healing and unity to the community and the nation at large. The event has been a source of happiness and positivity, highlighting the resilience and unity within the Heiltsuk community.