Getting the word out about healthy northern living got a little friendlier with Tuesday’s unveiling of a caribou mascot for Northern Health.
The dark brown, white-snouted mascot sported antlers and a blue T-shirt as it pranced through Duchess Park secondary at its debut. It was designed by student Isabel Stratton and will be used to inspire healthy habits at a young age.
“I decided to make a caribou because they’re an endangered species and it’s important for them to stay healthy and have a safe environment much like we need to do as humans,” said Stratton following the afternoon announcement at her school.
The 13-year-old said it took two weeks and 10 to 15 drawings to get to the perfect sketch, which eventually won a city-wide contest.
“I was jumping up and down screaming. It was really exciting,” said Stratton, who was also selected as a torchbearer for the Canada Winter Games.
The caribou, named Spirit, was presented for the first time to Stratton’s classmates, Mike Morris, Prince George-Mackenzie MLA, as well as representatives for Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation, which sponsored the $6,272 cost of developing the character.
“I think this is a great symbol,” said Morris. “The choice that was made here was outstanding, because the caribou does represent some unique features for all of us who live here in rural B.C. and northern B.C.”
Morris noted the challenge was that the mascot represent and encourage people to live healthier lifestyles - something that Northern Health said is a challenge in the region.
“The northern population is not as healthy as the rest of the province, and we’re working hard to improve the health of the population,” Sandra Allison, chief medical health officer, said in a release. “By beginning with healthy habits at a young age, we’re hoping that children and youth will be able to avoid more chronic diseases and prevent injuries.”
Kelsey Yarmish, Northern Health’s manager of population health, said as a mother of two young children, she knows how important it is to make health engaging to youth.
“The mascot will be role modeling healthy activities across northern communities and allow health professionals to connect with kids in a fun and exciting way,” she said.
“As health professionals we know it’s important to encourage kids to develop healthy habits that will translate into a lifetime of healthy habits.”
