Andrew Thais (Akwesasne Mohawk) — Nursing Student

Project Title: Reimagining Eldercare Systems in Akwesasne

Project Focus:
Andrew Thais explored the role of eldercare facilities within Native communities, centering his research on his home community of Akwesasne. His work sought to understand the gaps and opportunities in care systems for Native elders.

Key Activities:

• Conducted research on the eldercare infrastructure in Akwesasne.

• Identified challenges faced by families, including complex paperwork related to healthcare, legal, and financial processes.

• Highlighted the limited capacity of existing facilities and the absence of intermediate support systems like assisted living or elder day care.

Outcomes & Impact:
Andrew’s findings point to an urgent need for culturally grounded support for families and elders navigating these systems. His project advocates for increased resources, the inclusion of Mohawk healthcare workers, and expanded care models that honor community and cultural values.

Andrew Thais has been driven by a profound sense of care and responsibility from a young age, shaped by his experiences within his family and community. Raised with the expectation to care for his cousin with disabilities, Andrew's early life was infused with the importance of compassion and support. Witnessing the compassionate care his tota (grandfather) received during his final months in a nursing home on their reservation deeply impacted him, reinforcing the significance of culturally sensitive healthcare. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, Andrew became the primary caregiver for his tota (grandmother), further solidifying his commitment to healthcare and nurturing others. Although initially drawn to mental health advocacy, Andrew ultimately returned to his childhood aspiration of nursing, recognizing the critical need for quality healthcare within Indigenous communities. His aim is to serve his own community in Akwesasne or nearby hospitals, offering comfort and familiarity to patients during challenging times. With a BA in Psychology from Siena College and a Post Baccalaureate in Psychology from UC Irvine, Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and research experience to his pursuit of a nursing degree. Currently involved in the AIM Ahead Program, Andrew is dedicated to increasing diversity in research while preparing to embark on his journey towards becoming a nurse. In his spare time, he finds solace in reading, exercising, and snowboarding, grounding himself for the impactful work ahead.