100th baby born in Inukjuak

For the past four years, midwives have been delivering babies at the health clinic in Inukjuak.

On Feb. 5, the 100th baby was born at the clinic’s maternity unit when Theresa Kasudluak gave birth to Alexi, a healthy 5 lb. 15 oz. boy.

A party has been planned for Feb. 21 to celebrate the event. “All the women who have had babies in Inukjuak are invited,” said Inukjuak midwife Jenny Stonier.

As well, Maina Tulugak, who co-ordinates the midwifery program for Puvirnituq’s Inuulitsivik Health Centre, and representatives from Nunavik’s regional health and social services board are expected to attend the celebration.

Inuit midwives in Purvirnituq and Inukjuak study midwifery in their home communities. Quebec’s midwifery law recognizes Inuit midwives who are already certified and working in Nunavik, but not those who are in training now or in the future.

Nunavik health officials have been lobbying for changes to this legislation.