You are going to be outraged’: Mother speaks ahead of inquest into daughter’s death at Niagara hospital – CBC

Mar 29, 2026

Family of Indigenous woman who sought care at St. Catharines hospital hopes inquest prevents similar cases

It was pounding rain outside the Sessions on the River recording studio in Fort Erie, Ont., Thursday night, but that did little to dampen the mood inside as friends, family and members of the community gathered to pay tribute to Heather Winterstein.

Her death at the St. Catharines hospital more than four years ago has raised questions about how Indigenous people and those with mental health and substance use issues are treated in the health-care system.

Just days before a coroner’s inquest is set to begin into Winterstein’s death in late 2021 at what is now called the Marotta Family Hospital, Thursday’s event was a celebration of the legacy the 24-year-old left behind.

You are going to be outraged’: Mother speaks ahead of inquest into daughter’s death at Niagara hospital – CBC

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