Snuneymuxw First Nation Chief Mike Wyse will step away from his duties in order to deal with an ongoing health issue. His temporary absence will be filled by Bill Yoachim. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

Snuneymuxw First Nation chief stepping away to address health issue

Jul 26, 2022 | 4:49 PM

NANAIMO — Snuneymuxw First Nation Chief Mike Wyse is temporarily stepping away from his duties to tend to a personal matter.

Wyse announced Tuesday, July 26, a routine medical exams revealed a heart aneurysm which means he must take a medical leave of absence to “take the immediate steps necessary to address the situation and recover.”

He did not clarify further what those steps would be or the length of time he expects to be away.

In Wyse’s absence, Bill Yoachim will assume his duties as Acting Chief of Snuneymuxw First Nation.

“I have been blessed with a window of time, where I can focus on my health, and do what is needed to recharge for the work ahead,” Wyse added.

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Wyse was a central, highly visible figure during the COVID-19 pandemic when an extended outbreak of cases hit the First Nation in December 2020.

The outbreak resulted in the community being placed under a shelter-in-place order and early doses of vaccine being diverted to vaccinate the community.

Officials declared the outbreak over in April 2021.

Wyse also has encouraged funding to aid Snuneymuxw in searches for human remains at the site of the former Nanaimo Indian Hospital.

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