Hi, my name is Mary Masuzumi and I am originally from Fort Good Hope, NT.

My late-parents are Alfred & Sarah Masuzumi.

I am a mother to three boys, engaged to my partner, currently work with the GNWT as a dehcho medical travel officer & a certified recovery coach.

I am 7.5 years sober & clean, my life before getting help was lonely, depressive and self-destructive in many ways. I use to go days without eating or sleep. I would work a job for a few days, or get my first paycheque and call in sick. It was hurtful, not only to me but everyone else that loved me, but all I wanted was my drug of choice or alcohol.. my kids suffered a lot as well, but all I wanted was the things to numb the pain.

As you all know; I’ve been very vocal about mental health and addiction and speaking for our most vulnerable community that struggles to this day. After many deaths, to the many gatherings we had about the issue we still come back to what are the next steps, this service is needed between the story telling and providing housing assistance to individuals from aftercare or a simple good nights sleep in a safe environment.

I am excited to see the progress, the transformation for our sahtu communities and to bring our community connection back to the roots of our ancestors.

Vice-President of Sahtu Support Association

Mary Masuzumi