Rankin Inlet (May 07/03) - The hamlet of Rankin Inlet was saddened by the death of an old friend this past month.

Dr. Lisa Jane Lugtig died on April 25 in Winnipeg after a lengthy bout with cancer. She was 45.

Dr. Lisa Jane Lugtig was well known and respected for the time she took in getting to know her patients in Rankin Inlet. Lugtig died April 25. - photo courtesy of the Northern Medical Unit

Lugtig was the last doctor to make her home in Rankin on a full-time basis.

She practised in the hamlet from 1984-1993.

Lugtig was working in Rankin when current adult educator Gerry Pfluegar first arrived in the community as a nurse in 1986.

Pfluegar says Lugtig was loved and respected by the people of the community.

"Lisa absolutely loved the people here and she had a very caring attitude," says Pfluegar.

"She also enjoyed the independence of her practice in Rankin."

Pfluegar says Lugtig was an excellent communicator who enjoyed teaching.

She says nurses in Rankin always felt strongly supported by Lugtig.

"Lisa had a good relationship with the nurses. She had a trusting way with us in that she was as confident in our abilities as we were in hers.

"She was here long enough to know everyone in the community and their families, as well as all the connections and relationships.

"Lisa and I shared another connection in that we were both diagnosed with breast cancer.

"I was just luckier with the prognosis."

Noella Nipisar is a clerk-interpreter at the Rankin Inlet Health Centre, the same position she held when Lugtig practised in the community.

Nipisar also has fond memories of the doctor.

"She taught me how to work in the lab and take X-rays," recalls Nipisar.

"At that time, we didn't have lab or X-ray technicians.

"I still miss the many things she would teach the interpreters."

Nipisar also remembers Lugtig as being kind, and willing to work with people.

She says the doctor took a strong interest in the people she worked with and those she cared for.

"People here miss having a doctor who calls Rankin home.

"Lisa knew her work, was part of the community and took the time to know the people she cared for.

"She was always open and honest with patients and staff, and everyone appreciated that."