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Two Timmins doctors make 'Human Rights Hall of Fame' for fighting opioid crisis

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Doctors Louisa Marion-Bellemare and Julie Samson are now officially inducted into the 'Timmins Human Rights Wall of Fame,' joining more than a dozen others.

They have been fighting the opioid crisis and pushing for change over the last several years.

The pair of physicians were nominated by someone who wishes to remain anonymous, but said in an email -- that was read out loud during the induction ceremony -- that the pair's hard work for walking the streets all hours of the day, speaking to residents to gain their trust and bringing them to treatments warranted the recognition.

"I mean, we just started doing this two years ago because we knew there was a problem," Samson said.

"And there’s still a lot of work to be done and we’re going to continue to do that."

Marian-Bellemare said they've seen a lot of progress in the community as stigma is lessening and attitudes are changing, "also with barrier-free access to people who really want treatment for their addictions, I think that was the biggest (change)."

The induction ceremony, hosted by 'Timmins Together,' is an annual event to recognize residents who are humanitarians, and are inclusive and non-discriminatory.

"Even within the country, they’re beginning to gain traction. All the provinces are asking about their work and learning about their work. It was only fair to have them inducted and we’re proud to have them as inductees for this year," said Ifeoma Kasimanwauna, another member of the host group and coordinator of the Timmins Local Immigration Partnership.

"Each one of these people has contributed individually in their own way and own field. As a whole, the City of Timmins is better," said Andrew Marks, a Timmins city councillor and member of 'Timmins Together.'

'Timmins Together' includes partners from eight educational organizations, the City of Timmins and the multicultural centre.

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