CBHSSJB mourns the passing of Dr Charles Dumont
It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of Dr Charles Hector Dumont, a former CBHSSJB consultant in internal medicine. He passed away on November 18 in Gatineau, Quebec.
The CBHSSJB extends its deepest sympathy to his family and friends during this difficult time.
Dr Dumont will be remembered for his longstanding commitment to the welfare of the Crees of Eeyou Istchee.
He lived and practiced medicine at the Ste-Thérèse-de-l'Enfant-Jésus Hospital in Fort George from 1969 to 1971, and then at the Chachasipitch Hospital from 1973 to 1976. He served as Director of Professional Services at both hospitals. He then worked monthly in Chisasibi from 1979 to 2002 as an internal medicine consultant for the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay. During those years, Dr Dumont was instrumental to help train nurses in practicing enlarged roles in northern regions.
It was during his tenure at Chachasipitch Hospital that the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement was negotiated, including Section 14 on Cree health and social services. His knowledge of the health care system and practical advice were often sought by Cree leaders and the negotiating team.
Dr Dumont was the scientific director of the Cree Health Board program to monitor exposure to methylmercury from 1986 to 1998. In this capacity, he was the Cree Health Board's spokesperson for the media and government regarding Cree communities’ exposure to methylmercury (during the period of 1979 to 1998). Through this role he published numerous articles on the subject in the Arctic Medical Research Journal and other publications.
Dr Charles Dumont loved and respected the Cree culture and he learned a lot from the Elders who were very kind with him.
Testimonials
Alyne Blacksmith: We remember those who worked for the CBHSSJB for a long time, we get attached to them and they will always remain in our memories for the good they did for the organization and our people.
Bella M. Petawabano: Dr Dumont was one devoted doctor and loved the people of the North.
Laura Moses: Dr Dumont left a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path. He was an exceptional physician who was committed to helping others with limited resources we had had in those days, and he yet he made a huge difference.
Francine Noel: Sad to hear of his passing. Best boss I've ever had in my career.
Claudette Beloin: C’était un grand homme.
Danielle Allaire: Très triste, j’ai travaillé des années avec lui à Montreal. Il était tellement gentil, doux et respectueux.
Evelyne Cox: The first doctor I knew back in Fort George, he was a gentle soul. RIP Dr Dumont.
Jeannie McKee: I met him a few times, apparently, he delivered me when I was born.
Bertha Chiskamish: He was a gentle and kind man, RIP Dr Dumont.
