Kerry McCluskey
Northern News Services

Coppermine (Aug 13/01) - When a group of Kugluktuk residents head to Deline to take part in a healing workshop this week, they'll also lend a helping hand to people in the host community.

Joanne Taptuna, a member of the Ayakotak Committee that organized the westward journey, said the Kugluktuk residents who are attending the event would be able to help the people of Deline with their grief.

Tragedy rocked the small Western Arctic community July 29 month when 22-year-old Jack Betsidea shot and killed Ryan Tetso, 25, and Brian Kenny, 35, before killing himself.

"Some (Kugluktuk participants) were scared due to the incident, but I assured them it would be good for people from other communities to be there because the community of Deline needs support," said Taptuna.

Designed to teach people problem-solving skills and healthy ways of living, the workshop helps people understand life's obstacles and shows participants how to heal from grief.

Taptuna said because Kugluktuk had experienced similar violent tragedies in recent years, by sharing stories, the two communities would be able to assist one another.

"People from here will be able to extend their support and help," said Taptuna.

"With their stories, they'll be able to help each other. Just listening to other people's stories makes you feel like you're not all alone," she said.

Fourteen residents -- four supervisors and 10 participants -- leave Aug. 14 to take part in the six-day workshop. Taptuna said everyone is excited about the conference and she spent part of last week preparing them for what they would experience.

"They'll feel like they're starting a whole new life," said Taptuna.