More than 50 women gathered at Zig Zag Yacht Club (ZZYC) on Sunday, July 12, for the Lake of the Woods District Hospital Foundation’s second Women’s Health & Wellness Retreat. The event offered a morning dedicated to self-care, meaningful connection, and empowering conversations about women’s health.
Hosted in partnership with ZZYC and made possible through the generous support of the Reid Family, the retreat combined expert-led education, restorative movement, and nourishing local cuisine, while fostering a shared commitment to wellness among both year-round and seasonal residents.
The morning began with a presentation by Dr. Catherine Murray, Radiologist and Diagnostic Imaging Service Lead at Lake of the Woods District Hospital, who shared insights into women’s and breast health. Her presentation emphasized the importance of early detection and regular screening while encouraging proactive healthcare. Next, Dr. Zahra Jaffer, Family Physician at WNHAC and Emergency Medicine Physician at LWDH, spoke about emergency medicine in the region, seasonal health risks including heat stroke, ticks, and blastomycosis. She explained when emergency care is needed and when alternatives, such as telemedicine, may be appropriate.
Guests then chose between an energizing outdoor Zumba class led by Jenna Mattson or a relaxing dockside Somatic Breathwork experience led by Tressa Main of Lakehouse Wellness Collective, before enjoying a locally sourced brunch prepared by Chef Sarah Howe.
“When women come together to learn, lead, and share their stories, communities grow stronger,” said Kathleen Reid, member of the Women’s Health & Wellness Retreat Committee. “The Lake of the Woods District Hospital Foundation Women’s Retreat is a powerful example of how extending outreach to the Clearwater Bay Community creates deeper connections, inspires support, and empowers women to lead with confidence. As a Manitoban who spends summers in Clearwater Bay, I am proud to support a Hospital that provides essential services to our community, giving residents and visitors alike greater peace of mind.”
Participants also heard from Dr. Michelle Marlborough, Psychiatrist and Psychiatry Service Lead at LWDH, who shared her expertise on mental health and navigating cognitive changes in perimenopause.
The morning closed with a Q&A, followed by remarks from Cheryl O’Flaherty, President & CEO of LWDH. She spoke about the importance of advocating for one’s health, the Hospital’s response to the May 6, 2026 flood, the Surgical Services Phase Recovery Plan, the Hospital’s Rural Generalist Care Model, and LWDH’s ongoing commitment to strengthening healthcare for those who live in and visit the region. She also provided an update on planning and preparations for the new Hospital, reinforcing LWDH’s long-term commitment to improving healthcare across the region.
The LWDH Foundation thanks ZZYC for opening its space to the community and helping create an opportunity for women to learn, connect, and prioritize their health and well-being.
The Women’s Health & Wellness Retreat reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting community wellness through education, connection, and access to local healthcare expertise.
For more information on upcoming events or to support local healthcare initiatives, browse our website. To learn more about ZZYC, visit zzyc.ca.