When is International Women’s Day 2026? A Celebration of Women at Fraser Health
Mark your calendars! International Women’s Day 2026 will be celebrated on March 8th, 2026. At Fraser Health, we recognize that the strength of our organization is deeply rooted in the dedication and expertise of our incredible team, over 83% of whom identify as women. This International Women’s Day, we’re proud to spotlight just a few of the many women whose contributions are building healthier communities and shaping the future of healthcare.
Inspiring Stories of Leadership and Care
From groundbreaking research to compassionate patient care, the women of Fraser Health are making a profound impact. Here are a few stories that exemplify their dedication and innovation:
- Sheila Early, Retired Registered Nurse: Appointed to the Order of Canada for her pioneering work in forensic nursing, Sheila co-founded B.C.’s first Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program at Surrey Memorial Hospital. Learn more about Sheila’s legacy.
- Rhonda Davison, Spiritual Health Practitioner: Rhonda provides holistic and compassionate support to patients and families during life’s most challenging moments.
- Lisa Helgeson, Nurse Practitioner: Bringing accessible healthcare closer to home, Lisa practices at a new health clinic in Harrison Hot Springs.
- Courtney Wedemire (ICU Dietitian) & Fiona Howarth (Clinical Nurse Specialist): Their collaborative research on sedation and nutrition is significantly improving patient outcomes in intensive care units.
- Dr. Birinder Mangat, Medical Director: Dr. Mangat and her team are training clinicians in the use of point-of-care ultrasounds, enabling faster and more informed patient care.
- Carmen Letexier, Administrative Assistant: Carmen shares her personal journey at Fraser Health and her vision for a more culturally safe organization.
- Danielle Mlinaritsch, Nurse Practitioner: Danielle’s expertise and collaborative spirit are strengthening patient care at the Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre.
- Selena Moore, Clinical Coordinator: Selena is dedicated to fostering a healthcare system built on positive and trusting relationships with Indigenous communities.
- Dr. Grace Park & Margaret Lin, Clinical Research Lead & Regional Project Lead: Leading grant-funded projects on social prescribing, they are empowering older adults to age in place by connecting them with vital community resources.
- Muriel Pete, Peer Support Worker: Known as “Head Thunderbird Woman” and “Sum La wat, ‘Bee’”, Muriel brings her lived experience to create safe spaces for healing and connection at a low-barrier recovery community centre.
- Lindsey Vukicevic, Health Care Assistant: Recognized with an Above and Beyond award for her lasting contributions to healthcare.
You can read all the inspiring stories of the women celebrated at this year’s event here.
A Commitment to Indigenous Healthcare
Fraser Health acknowledges that it provides care on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded lands of the Coast Salish and Nlaka’pamux Nations, and is home to 32 First Nations within the Fraser Salish region. We are dedicated to serving all Indigenous people and honouring the unique cultures of the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit living within this region. We strive to create a healthcare system that is inclusive, respectful, and responsive to the needs of all communities.
International Women’s Day 2026 is a reminder of the vital role women play in all aspects of society, and at Fraser Health, we are deeply grateful for their unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care.
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