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Gwiwenzemen
SPRING 2015 | No. 2
{we will do good, we intend to do right}
IN THIS ISSUE
Year in Review
Lacrosse
Meet Dr. Champion
Breastfeeding Benefits
Prevent Colon Cancer
Maple Syrup Benefits
Barry Phillips
Photo credit: NHBP Environmental Staff
Prescription Savings
”We will be known forever by the
tracks we leave.”
- Dakota
QUARTERLY HEALTH & WELLNESS MAGAZINE from the NOTTAWASEPPI HURON BAND of the POTAWATOMI
M ESSAGE fro m t h e DIRECTOR
Submitted by Rosalind Johnston, Director
Since this is the first publication of 2015, we would like to
take this opportunity to reflect on our accomplishments for
2014 and share our 2015 priorities.
Expanded Programs
In 2014, services were expanded by adding more physician
and dental days. The Maternal Child Program was expanded
with the funding from Inter Tribal Council of Michigan. A
Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of
Affairs for the provision of Tele-Mental Health Services for
Tribal Veterans was signed. NHBP members and other
federally-recognized Tribal Members increased their utilization
of dental and medical services this past year, with the largest
growth in utilization of dental services. Several events were
delivered successfully including: Red Dress, Baby Celebration,
and a 5K run.
Electronic Health Records
In 2014, the Health Department also worked toward
improving administrative efficiency by adding additional
personnel to support the Electronic Health Records system,
implemented E-Prescribe to allow for the direct transmission
of prescriptions to pharmacies and upgraded the scheduling
software. The Office Manager’s job description was revised
and duties separated between the business functions and
the scheduling functions, resulting in the hiring of a Business
Manager to increase, monitor and manage activities related
to revenue generation from third party billing. In addition,
a Community Health Team Lead was added to strengthen
internal linkages among the community outreach activities,
the clinics and other departments.
2. Conducting a health needs assessment and utilizing
current health data to determine health trends and
determine additional sub-specialty services and/or
prevention programming needs for 2016 consideration.
3. Strengthening promotion of current services.
4. Improving existing Elder care services, and determining
additional services required including assisted living.
5. Collaborating with other NHBP departments and partners
in the development of an early childhood service system.
Other key areas include:
1. Reviewing all Health Department policies and procedures
to ensure they reflect current regulations and/or practice.
2. Developing social service systems to support the Tribal
Codes that are or will be coming into effect.
3. Continuing to enhance and strengthen existing services.
Feel free to contact our department for more information
about the variety of services available to Tribal Members or
with any concern regarding the delivery of services.
Photo credit: Jaky Nay
Year in Review
Quality Assurance
This past year we also increased quality assurance activities
by appointing both physicians as medical directors at their
respective clinics, hired an internal Compliance Officer to
ensure that NHBP health services are compliant with federal,
state and Tribal regulations, and completed an annual risk
assessment. In addition, the department had a positive
vaccine inspection by the state and facility inspection by
Indian Health Services.
2015 Goals
To address the Tribes strategic priorities, in 2015 we will
focus on:
1. Developing traditional health and chronic pain
management services as identified in the prior year’s
goals.
01 Walk lightly in the spring; Mother Earth is pregnant. - Kiowa
Rosalind Johnston, Director
WEL L NESS EDUCATIO N
America’s Oldest Game: Lacrosse
Submitted by Justin Gephart, Health Educator
Lacrosse is commonly called “America’s Oldest Game.”
Origins are widely accepted as dating back to the 1600s.
The roots this game has in the Tribal community run long
and deep. Author of American Indian Lacrosse, Thomas
Venuum Jr. states, “As can best be determined, the
distribution of lacrosse shows it to have been played
throughout the eastern half of North America, mostly by
Tribes in the southeast, around the western Great Lakes,
and in the St. Lawrence Valley area.” Not only does this
game have roots in the Native community, but it has origin
roots right here in the Great Lakes region.
As spring approaches, check your local area for opportunities
to try this traditional and dynamic sport! For more
information on physical activity and programs at NHBP,
contact Justin Gephart, Health Educator.
The game has evolved tremendously over time and the
current version has each team fielding ten players at a time:
a goalie, three defensemen, three midfielders, and three
attackmen. All players wear helmets, shoulder pads, arm
pads, gloves, and mouthpieces. Lacrosse sticks have three
main parts: the shaft, the head, and the pocket. The shaft is
the actual stick part of a lacrosse stick. The head is the part
of the stick that holds the pocket.
A regulation lacrosse field is 110 yards long and 60 yards
wide. The goals are six feet by six feet. Players may attempt
to dislodge the ball from an opponent by hitting the stick
or the hand on the stick. It is legal to body check a player in
possession of the ball or within five yards of a loose ball. The
check must be delivered below the neck and above the waist
and the checking player must have both hands on his stick.
The check may be from the front or side only.
Not only is lacrosse an important part of Native American
culture but it provides an excellent source of exercise.
Playing the game provides countless benefits to increase or
maintain overall health. Running around on a field of this
size is a high-impact aerobic activity. According to the Mayo
Clinic, a 160-pound person burns 533 calories per hour
performing high-impact aerobics. A lacrosse match can last
anywhere from one to two hours, allowing participants to
burn hundreds of calories per game.
Traditional hand-made lacrosse sticks
Spring {Mnokwé} Pronounced: “minohkweh”
Tobacco {Séma} Pronounced: “saymaah”
East {Wéchmokek} Pronounced: “wehchmokuk”
Baby/Child: {Penojék} Pronounced: “pinohjehk”
Yellow {Wzawa} Pronounced: “wizaauwah”
You already possess everything necessary to become great. - Crow
02
E MP LOYE E H I G H L IGHTS
Meet Dr. Tandy Champion
Submitted by Justin Gephart, Health Educator
Q What are your three favorite movies?
A Millions, Toy Story and Children of Heaven.
Q What are your top life highlights?
A Graduating from medical school and completing residency, holding
each of my nieces/nephews for the first time, getting my pilot’s license,
and taking my dad for a flight along the lakeshore two years ago.
Q What do you like to do in your spare time?
A Exercise, read, travel, mentor and volunteer.
Q Do you have a favorite quote?
A “It is hard work to fill one’s life with meaning. That I do not think you
understand yet. A life filled with meaning is worthy of rest. I want to
be worthy of rest when I am no longer here.” - Chaim Potok, The Chosen
Photo credit: West Michigan Aviation Academy
Q What is your position/title at NHBP?
A I am the medical director at the Grand Rapids Clinic.
Q What is something most people do not know about you?
A I obtained a motorcycle license when I was in college so I could drive
to work, and I have kept it active. And my first trip outside the U.S.
was to Haiti when I was 7. My last trip was five years ago to Rwanda.
Dr. Tandy Champion
DENTAL C L I N I C
Spring Cleaning
Submitted by Dr. Chas Jensen
The same holds true for your dental health. Regularly scheduled
dental appointments allow your dentist to fix problems before they
start causing pain. Once a cavity progresses to the size that it will
cause a toothache, a simple filling will not take care of it. More
invasive procedures such as root canals or extractions will be
needed. Had the cavity been addressed earlier (prior to it causing
pain), then likely a simple procedure like a filling would fix the
problem.
03
As the temperatures begin to rise and it becomes easier to get
around outside, make an appointment with your friendly dental
team so a toothache won’t get in the way of you enjoying the
warm spring sunshine to come!
The one who tells the stories rules the world. - Hopi
Photo credit: Jaky Nay
As spring is knocking at our door and the snow is starting to melt,
change is in the air. It is time for us all to get out of our winter
hibernation mode, get outside and get active. How does the saying
go…”An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” As in all
facets of health care, prevention is the best medicine. A healthy,
active lifestyle is paramount to both longevity and the management
of chronic diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
Dr. Charles Jensen, Heidi Heers, Hygienist (center),
Kendra Blaskowski, Dental Assistant
N URS ING/P RIMARY CARE
Don’t Take a Chance – Colorectal Cancer can be Prevented!
Submitted by Jolane Conklin, Nurse Practitioner
Colorectal cancer, a cancer found in either the colon (large
intestine) or rectum is the second most common cancer
among men and women in the United States, but it doesn’t
have to be. If everyone aged 50 years or older had regular
screening tests, at least 60% of deaths from this cancer
could be avoided.
Colon cancer can be found in both men and women, most
commonly after the age of 50 and 90% of new colon
cancers are diagnosed in those aged 50 and older. The risk
does go up as you age and having other risk factors, like
inflammatory bowel disease or a family history of colorectal
cancer can increase your risk. On average, your chance of
getting colon cancer is about 1 in 20 people, but can vary
widely according to individual risk factors.
While screening is the most important step you can take
to prevent colon cancer, it is not the only one. Exercising
daily, eating a healthy and well balanced diet, knowing your
family history and not smoking are all things that you can do
now to prevent colon cancer in the future.
For more information on health screenings, contact
the NHBP Health clinic at 269.729.4422.
Source: Colon Cancer Alliance
Colon cancer most commonly starts as a polyp (a growth
that shouldn’t be there). Over time, some polyps can turn
into cancer. These polyps and early cancer don’t always
cause symptoms, especially at first. Screening tests, like a
colonoscopy, can find these polyps so they can be removed
before they turn into cancer.
The good news is that screening for colon cancer has
increased by 60% since 2010, however one in three adults
ages 50-75 are still not being screened as recommended!
There are several screening options available, including
stool tests that are collected in the privacy of your home,
to a colonoscopy which is recommended to be done every
ten years starting at age 50. Please talk to your healthcare
provider if you have any questions or to get a referral for a
colonoscopy screening.
Colon cancer
COMMUNITY HEALTH RESOURCES
Prescription Savings Tips
Submitted by Chris Woodring, Community Resource Coordinator
Prescription medications vary in price. You can save money by
doing a little checking around. Computer access can help you find
the best prescription drug prices or programs. All you need is your
prescription name and dosage information.
• Discount medications: A handy website for you to use is
www.goodrx.com
• Meijer Pharmacy has some reduced-cost and even free
medications available. Please check the online link for
updated information. http://www.meijer.com/pharmacy
• Family Fare has many convenient locations and can help with
most of your prescription needs.
http://familyfare.spartanstores.com/pharmacy
• Wal-Mart also has some low cost prescriptions.
http://www.walmart.com/cp/Pharmacy
If you don’t have computer access and would like help researching prescription prices, signing up for Medicaid or Health insurance
through the Affordable Care Act website., contact Chris Woodring,
Community Resource Coordinator at 616.249.0159,
extension 3638.
One finger cannot lift a pebble. - Hopi
04
DIABETES/ WE L L NESS
Maple Syrup: A Natural Sweetener
Submitted by Lysandra Vander Hart, Dietitian
The USDA estimates that the average person consumes
more than 22 teaspoons of added sugars per day. This
overabundance of sweets has been linked to weight gain
and the development of insulin resistance, fatty liver, type
2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Scientists have
developed noncaloric (calorie free) artificial sweeteners in
an attempt to satisfy a sweet tooth without stretching the
waistline, but the safety and impact of these chemicals are
debated. Although people are looking for more natural
alternatives to the typical white granules we think of as
sugar, the truth is that natural does not necessarily mean
healthful.
The recommendation for added sugar intake is 25 grams
per day. That is only 6 teaspoons of sugar or 100 calories.
Natural sugars in fruit (fructose) and milk (lactose) are not
included. A healthy diet should include two servings of fruit
and three servings of dairy per day. Other natural
sweeteners such as honey and maple syrup are considered
to be added sugars.
Maple syrup is one of the most popular sweeteners on the
market. Made by boiling down the sap of maple trees, this
sweet syrup has been consumed by Native Americans for
centuries. Depending on the grade, maple syrup is about
50% glucose and 50% fructose, like table sugar. Maple
syrup contains more minerals than table sugar, particularly
manganese and zinc. It also has small amounts of
polyphenols, which are antioxidants that help reduce
inflammation. This 100% natural sweeter may raise blood
sugar more slowly than table sugar.
Other natural sweeteners:
Agave syrup: Processed by treating the nectar of agave
plants with enzymes to break it down. Contains 1.5 times
more calories than table sugar and contains 90% fructose
which is higher than high fructose corn syrup.
Stevia: an extract from the plant’s leaves is 200 times
sweeter than table sugar and is bitter so it is almost always
blended with dextrose (100% glucose), which adds calories.
Date Sugar: Is simply dried dates ground into a fine powder
so it has nutrients such as potassium, calcium, and
antioxidants. It does not melt well but it can be used in
baked goods.
05
Everything the power does, it does in a circle. - Lakota
The key, as with so many things, is moderation. Just because
an item is sweetened with an alternative does not mean it is
good for the body. For people with diabetes, Stevia products
can be used on special occasions when trying to satisfy a
sweet tooth. However, just as only 100 calories of sugar is
recommended per day, the equivalent of noncaloric
sweeteners is recommended as well. For example, one four
ounce serving of regular pop is 100 sugar calories so only
one four ounce serving of diet pop sweetened with Stevia
should be consumed each day.
As a society, we have turned sugars into a staple rather than
a treat. However, this does not mean that sweet tasting
foods are off the menu. Most of the sweets in our diet are
beverages or grain-based foods such as baked goods. By
eating fruit we can get more nutrients and save on calories
while leaving room for healthy complex carbs like sweet
potato, oatmeal, wild rice, squash and corn. Changing habits
to cut back on sweetened foods can help patients with
diabetes meet their blood glucose goals. When choosing a
sweetener, think natural. Maple syrup from the Pine Creek
reservation is a great addition to your cupboard! Stay tuned
to the Turtle Press for the 2015 sap harvesting events.
Wellness Tips:
25 Grams of Added Sugar
Serving Size
Food Item
4 teaspoonsHoney
6 teaspoons
Maple Syrup or Sugar
4 ounce Regular Pop
1 ½ cups Frosted Mini Wheats
1 Candy Bar
16 ounce Sports Drink
12 ounce Chocolate Milk
15 Milk Duds
¾ Cup Ice Cream
1 Muffin
Maple Syrup Recipe Idea: Combine 5 cups of root
vegetables with 2 T oil and bake on a cookie sheet for 20
minutes at 425. Mix 2 T maple syrup, 2 T mustard and 1 T
diced garlic to drizzle over vegetables and bake until tender.
For more information on nutrition please contact Lysandra
Vander Hart at 269.729.4422.
Photo credit: NHBP Environmental Staff
DIABETES N7 SHOE P ROGRAM
Maple sap running on the Pine Creek Reservation
He who would do great things should not attempt them all alone. - Seneca
06
MATER NAL C H I L D HEALTH
Breastfeeding {Noné ésha nétem shemyago} Traditional and Natural
Submitted by Beth Moody, Community Health Nurse
• Breastfed infants do not suffer from tooth decay as
infants, which is a significant problem with bottle-fed
infants.
• Breastfed babies are easy to comfort at the breast.
• Breastfed infants tend to have fewer speech problems
than bottle-fed infants.
• Breastfeeding enhances infant learning and breast milk
fosters brain cell growth.
• Breastfeeding promotes maternal and infant attachment.
Secure attachment promotes infant mental health and
enhances trust and self-confidence.
• Breast milk is always available and at the right
temperature. It eliminates the necessity for bottles,
sterilization, and formula.
• Nighttime feedings are easy. No warming of bottles in
the middle of the night.
• Working mothers who are breastfeeding miss fewer days
of work, because their babies don’t get sick as often.
• Prolactin is released during breastfeeding, promoting
maternal relaxation and feelings of well-being.
• There is a lower incidence of breast cancer among
breastfed infants.
Breast milk is our first traditional food. It is the first gift we
can give our babies – our next generation. It provides all the
nutrition our penojék (babies) need along with the bonding
that occurs. We breastfed our babies until the era of
commodities and the 1950s era of mass marketing and
selling of formula. Women were told they had no breast
milk for over an entire generation. With good support and
encouragement most women can successfully breastfeed.
Here at NHBP we have breast pumps available to borrow
and utilize as long as necessary to provide this premium
nutrition to our penojék (babies).
Breastfeeding Benefits
• Breastfeeding significantly reduces risk of Type 2 diabetes
for both mother and infant.
• Breastfeeding reduces a baby’s risk of obesity by about
one third.
• Breastfed babies don’t get constipated; formula-fed
babies do, possibly from the iron in the formula or the
protein in cow’s milk. Breast milk promotes the emptying
of the colon with each feed. Formula or cow’s milk tends
to slow gastric emptying, and the infant may not pass a
stool every day.
• Breastfeeding promotes postpartum weight loss in the
mother.
• Breastfed infants have fewer allergies than formula-fed
infants. This is very important if the patient has a history
of allergies.
• The antibodies in breast milk protect the infant from
upper respiratory infections, influenza, otitis media,
asthma, and eczema.
• Recent research suggests that breastfeeding may help
prevent juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
• Research has also shown that there is a lower incidence
of SIDS among breastfed infants.
For more information on breastfeeding and our Maternal
Child Health Program please contact Beth Moody at
269.729.4422.
Sources:
Maternal Weight-Loss Patterns During Prolonged Lactation
Does Breastfeeding Reduce the Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome?
Breastfeeding and Brain Development (Cognitive Development)
Oxytocin, Prolactin, Milk Production and Their Relationship With
Personality Traits in Women After Vaginal Delivery or Cesarean Section
Breast Cancer Risk Associations With Birth Order and Maternal Age
According to Breastfeeding Status in Infancy
Please save the date!
Penojék Mawjeshnowen
BABY
C E L E B R AT I O N
2015
Saturday, April 11, 2015
Noon to 3 p.m. • Pine Creek Reservation Community Center
Join us as we honor our next Seven Generations’ newest Tribal Members. We would like to invite mothers and families with
children born April 11, 2014 - April 10, 2015, and interested community members, to come and celebrate these new little ones.
RSVP to the Pine Creek Health Department: 269.729.4422
07
God gives us each a song. - Ute
PROGRAMS & SERVICES
NHBP Clinic Services are available to all Federally Recognized Tribal Members
Programs Offered
• Emergency Preparedness and Safety
• CPR/First Aid/AED
• Health Education Programs, Classes, and Competitions
• Exercise Classes
• Lunch & Learn
PARENT ADVISORY
BOARD
Calling All Parents! We are actively seeking
participants for two Parent Advisory Boards.
Next Upcoming meeting date:
• Nutrition and Weight Loss
April 6
• Parenting Classes
• Chronic Disease Self-Management
• Healthy Start Visits
• Access to Recovery
• Fitness Centers
• Contract Health Services
6 to 8 p.m.
Pine Creek Community Center
For questions please contact
Martin Robinson,
Young Child Wellness Coordinator
at 269.704.8347
or [email protected]
Health Services Offered
• Comprehensive Primary Care for all ages
• Wellness Exams and Physicals
• Medical Management of Acute and Chronic Conditions
• Routine Screenings and Diagnostic Procedures
• Referral to Specialty Care
• Comprehensive Dental Services
• Diabetes Education and Case Management
• Medication Review
• Home Visiting
• Asthma Management/Treatment
• Point of Care Testing
• Podiatry Services
Behavioral Health & Social Services
• Individual Counseling for all ages
• Family and Couples Counseling
• Alcohol/Substance Abuse Treatment
• Talking Circles
• Case Management
• Elder Gift Card Program (for hospitalized Elders)
• Child Care Development Fund (assistance for eligible families
and child care providers)
ELDERS
GIFT CARD
PROGRAM
The Elders Gift Card Program was designed to
help Tribal Elders by providing a $25 Wal-Mart
gift card to Elders who are hospitalized with
an overnight stay to help assist in purchasing
needed items.
Eligibility: Any NHBP Member who is 50 years
of age or older and is admitted to a hospital
facility for medical care requiring at least one
overnight stay. Requests for Elder Gift cards
need to be submitted no later than 30 days
after the date of hospitalization to be eligible
per policy. You may use this program two times
per year.
Contact Chris Woodring, Community
Resource Coordinator, for
more information: 616.249.0159
For a more detailed list of program and service offerings,
please visit http://www.nhbpi.com and click on Health.
Wisdom comes only when you stop looking for it and start living the life the Creator intended for you. - Hopi
08
PROGRAM H I G H L IGHT
Gardening & Local Food
Submitted by Emily Henning, Community Health Team Leader
According to Michigan State University Extension:
• Locally grown produce is full of flavor. When grown
locally, the crops are picked at their peak of ripeness instead
of being harvested early in order to be shipped and
distributed to your local retail store.
• Eating local food is eating seasonally. Even though we
wish strawberries were grown year-round in Michigan, the
best time to eat them is when they can be purchased directly
from a local grower. They are full of flavor and taste better
than the ones available in the winter that have traveled
thousands of miles and picked before they were ripe.
• Local food has more nutrients. Local food has a shorter
time between harvest and your table, and it is less likely that
the nutrient value has decreased.
• Local food supports the local economy. The money that
is spent with local farmers and growers all stays close to
home and is reinvested with businesses and services in your
community.
• Local foods promote a safer food supply. The more steps
there are between you and your food’s source the more
chances there are for contamination. Food grown in distant
locations has the potential for food safety issues at
harvesting, washing, shipping and distribution.
• Local growers can tell you how the food was grown. You
can ask what practices they use to raise and harvest the
crops. When you know where your food comes from and
who grew it, you know a lot more about that food.
The NHBP Environmental Department has several spring
agricultural programs. The community garden on the NHBP
reservation is roughly ½ acre and operates under the
advisement of a Community Garden Task Force. The task
force consists of Tribal Members, Staff Members, Tribal Elders
and Tribal Youth and is always open to your suggestions
and participation. The planting and harvesting of produce
is primarily accomplished by NHBP Job Bank Workers and
volunteers. The Environmental and Health Departments
regularly partner together to provide garden food
distribution during the weekly Lunch and Learn program
throughout the growing season. You can also find famers
markets in your area and give locally grown, fresh produce a
try!
09 When a man moves away from nature his heart becomes hard. - Lakota
Similarly to locally grown produce, local free-range eggs tend
to not only have more nutrients than store bought eggs,
but also tend to have lower cholesterol levels. The NHBP
Environmental Department has a poultry program of 21 egg
laying hens. Give local eggs a try and taste the difference!
Earlier in this edition, we discussed the health benefits of
pure maple syrup and how it compares to other sweeteners.
The NHBP Environmental Department produces upwards of
35 gallons of maple syrup annually. If you are interested in
tasting some for yourself, don’t miss the 9th annual Flap
Jack Friday event on April 3!
Wild rice is a healthy alternative to other more starchy forms
of rice. When compared to brown rice, wild rice tips the
scales in vitamin, mineral, fiber and protein content. Help the
Environmental Department facilitate the restoration of the
local wild rice beds by participating in a wild rice harvesting
canoe trip. You will experience the traditional harvesting of
an indigenous food source and get some exercise while you
are at it!
Take advantage of the healthy local food sources in your
area this spring and summer, your health will thank you!
For more information on healthy eating contact Lysandra
Vander Hart, Registered Dietician at 269.729.4422.
Photo credit: NHBP Environmental Staff
With spring in the air, it is time to think about gardening
and the health benefits of locally grown and home grown
produce.
Spring starts early at the NHBP Environmental Center
PATIE NT SUCCESS STO RY
Patient Success Story - Barry Phillips
Submitted by Barry Phillips
The Michigan Indian Family Olympics (MIFO) was my first
point of connection with our health services here at NHBP.
This competition with other Michigan Tribes is an annual
event that I look forward to each year. I realized just how
much these past two years when I couldn’t go!
The Dental Clinic is a valuable resource to me and other
Tribal Members. Prior to the Reservation dental clinic, my last
visit to a dentist could very well have been when the dentist
was also my barber. Anyway, it was a long time ago; perhaps
when replacement teeth were made of wood. Surprisingly,
my NHBP dental visits have given me more appreciation for
our Tribe’s contributions to us! I had five teeth (or
semblances thereof) removed and was amazed that my
co-pay was zero! Since then, I’ve had fillings, cleanings, and
other procedures with the professional efficiency and
courtesy that keeps my Hollywood hopes alive.
As the years and miles on my body take their toll, NHBP has
played a vital role. A Bell’s Palsy episode encouraged me to
seek treatment and sympathies. This condition, which mimics
stroke-like symptoms, was dealt with quickly and seriously by
NHBP which sent me to emergency providers. The prognosis
was that it would heal itself. Several more events occurred
that the fast-acting staff went to work and transported me
to specialists and tests that resulted in my first ever hospital
stay since the early days after my birth. I do indeed believe
that were it not for the NHBP health team of professionals,
my very existence would be different today!
If anyone has concerns or conditions regarding health, do
not hesitate to contact our Tribal clinic for top notch care
and treatment!! You can thank or blame them for my being
here today! Migwéch NHBP!
Photo credit: Jaky Nay
NHBP’s Health Department sponsors and organizes these
trips to Mt. Pleasant (CMU) with great proficiency. My
participation has been a healthy goal that has motivated
my training each year. Other contests that are enjoyable and
beneficial are the walking (steps) contests. The daily,
weekly, and monthly measurements provide and
demonstrate healthy accomplishments on a personal basis.
We’re even provided with our own pedometer! Granted, it is
a basic gadget, but who needs a gizmo to tell you how fast
(slow) you’re going, your perspiration rate (check the sweat
stains on your shirt) or your genetic deficiencies (a mirror is
more than a hostile witness)?
Lest we not seek reinforcements on our own, I’m able to
attend Lunch & Learn sessions that offer information about
health issues and conditions that make the hypochondriac
in me a more accurate whiner at social get-togethers and
dinner parties. Plus, I’m exposed to healthy tips and
resources, too.
The workout room is another asset from the Tribe that
provides a safe and healthy venue to target specific parts of
my physique that are shown to be lacking by younger, buffer,
members of our community. Staff will also show me how to
correctly use these facilities. I’m empowered by fewer faux
pas that could cause my chastisement or banishment from
the premises. I know now to wipe down a machine
after use and that one should never put one’s fingers in
harms way around the free weights!
NHBP Elder Barry Phillips shares his wellness journey story
A people without a history is like the wind over buffalo grass. - Sioux
10
BEHAVIORAL H E ALT H
Talking Circle
Submitted by Liz Morgan, Behavioral Health Therapist
“It is a native tradition to sit in a circle and talk - to share what is in your heart.”
-- John Peters (Slow Turtle), WAMPANOAG
What is a Talking Circle?
“The talking circle is also a listening circle. The talking
circle allows one person to talk at a time for as long as
they need to talk. So much can be gained by listening. Is it
a coincidence that the Creator gave us one mouth and two
ears? The power of the circle allows the heart to be shared
with each other. What we share with each other also heals
each other. When we talk about our pain in the circle, it is
distributed to the circle, and we are free of the pain.
The talking circle works because when the people form a
circle, the Great Mystery is in the center.”
- Elders’ Meditation, White Bison
Who is it for?
The Talking Circle is for anyone living with substance
abuse. The group is open to males and females and open
to any age group.
How does it work?
The group begins with smudging and an opening prayer.
Refreshments are then served and group participants read
11 To touch the earth is to have harmony with nature. - Oglala Sioux
the AA preamble, the promises, and a daily reflection. The
group is then open for discussion. This time allows members
to reflect on the reading for the day, to share where they
are in their recovery, and to provide support to other group
members. After the discussion, the group ends with a Native
Prayer.
When is the Talking Circle?
The Talking Circle at the northern office alternates every
Wednesday between 12:30 to 2 p.m. and 5:30 to 7 p.m. The
Pine Creek group is at Tuesdays from 12:30 to 2 p.m. starting
March 24.
Please contact the Northern office for a schedule
616.249.0159 and Liz regarding any questions about the
Talking Circle at Pine Creek 269.729.4422 ext 8337;
[email protected].
Migwéch
L AU NCH
Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) Helps NHBP Families
Submitted by Martin Robinson, Young Child Wellness Coordinator
Our community continues to benefit from the activities of the
Bodwéwadmi LAUNCH Consortium. We continue to build a
strong system of care for Potawatomi children and families
throughout southwest Michigan. Partnerships between the
Nottawaseppi Huron Band Health Clinic, Behavioral Health
and Head Start have resulted in increased and enhanced
services for children in our community.
then follow up with a Triple P facilitator by phone for three
weeks. Parents who complete the program will earn a
certificate of completion. There is no cost to attend and
incentives are being offered.
If you are interested in signing up for Triple P, please
contact Martin Robinson at 269.729.4422.
Families receive additional information about their child’s
social emotional development during well-child visits
through the use of social-emotional screenings such as ASQ:
SE (Ages and Stages Questionnaires-Social Emotional) and
Pediatric Symptom Checklist.
Early literacy is also a regular part of the well-child visit
through the implementation of Reach Out and Read.
Children receive books and information about reading with
their children through the Reach Out and Read Program at
the Health Clinic.
Head Start staff and LAUNCH staff were trained in the
Family Connections model to provide wellness consultation
for Head Start staff and families. Our Mental Health
Consultant, Kristin Tenney-Blackwell, is working with our
Head Start Staff and a local child care provider (Kid’s Time)
to promote healthy growth in young children’s social and
emotional development by guiding and supporting the
caregivers and parents in the child’s life to recognize,
understand and support social and emotional development.
Kristin’s expertise in social and emotional milestones and
support strategies will help identify and work in
partnership with families and caregivers to remediate
problems that surface. Our Home Visiting program is a part
of family strengthening, and LAUNCH is providing support
for this program through the purchase of materials and
providing reflective supervision support to our home visitor
from our mental health consultant.
Over the past few months, Triple P (Positive Parenting
Program) has been offered to NHBP families with children
zero to eight years of age. Triple P is a program that has
been proven to help parents build strong family
relationships, manage child misbehavior, and prevent
problems from occurring in the first place.
Triple P is being offered at Pine Creek and Grand Rapids.
Parents who participate will attend four group sessions and
This program is free for NHBP families.
Materials, support and supplies provided.
Two locations: Pine Creek & Grand Rapids
We are all one child spinning through Mother Sky. - Shawnee
12
SAVE THE DAT E!
Don’t miss these great health and wellness opportunities
Submitted by Emily Henning, Community Health Team Leader
Tribe to Tribe Walking Challenge
Lunch & Learn
Wednesdays at Noon
Pine Creek Community Center
*Free to NHBP Tribal Elders. $3 for community members, visitors
and employees.
National Native HIV Awareness Day
March 20, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.,
311 State St Grand Rapids
*Geared toward middle and high school age students; open to all.
Pine Creek Talking Circle
May 2 to July 5
*Open to everyone who uses NHBP clinics.
Diabetes PATH
May 29 to July 10, Fridays 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
311 State St Grand Rapids
*Open to everyone who uses NHBP clinics. Geared toward patients with diabetes and caregivers.
Michigan Indian Family Olympics
July 17, Shepherd High School
Shepherd, Michigan
March 24, Tuesdays 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Pine Creek Health Clinic
*See the article on page 11 for more information.
Matter of Balance
July 24 to Sept. 11, Fridays from 10 a.m. to Noon
311 State St Grand Rapids
*Open to everyone who uses NHBP clinics. Geared toward people
with fall or balance concerns and caregivers.
Winter Meltdown Program
Ends March 27
Baby Celebration
April 11, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Pine Creek Community Center
*Open to NHBP babies (born April 12, 2014-April 11, 2015), their
families, and NHBP community members.
Back to School Program
Community CPR Class
Contact Martin Robinson for upcoming classes and for
more information.
*Open to LAUNCH consortium Tribal Members and
descendants (NHBP, Gun Lake, Pokagon)
April 18, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Pine Creek Community Center
*Open to all. Free to NHBP Tribal Members, spouses, descendants.
A $5 registration card fee will apply to all other attendees. Must
call Mike Struwin to pre-register at 269.729.4422.
July 27 to July 31, both NHBP Clinics
*Open to NHBP Tribal Members.
Triple P Parenting Class
NOTE: Preregistration is required for all events and programs listed except Lunch & Learn. Please contact the NHBP Health
Clinic for registration information at 269.729.4422. For more information on health events, programs, and eligibility
please contact Emily Henning at [email protected] or 269.729.4422.
9th ANNUAL
!
EE e
R
F as
Plen us!
joi
FLAPJACK FRIDAY!
Friday, April 3, 2015
Pine Creek Community Center
11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Drumming! Free Pancakes! Maple Syrup Sales!
Transportation will be provided from 311 State Street, Grand Rapids
13
A good chief gives, he does not take. - Mohawk
F REQU ENT LY AS KED QUESTIO NS
Frequently Asked Questions
Submitted by Sarah VanOostendorp, Health Office Manager
Q Why do I need insurance when I have CHS (Contract Health Service)?
A CHS is a federally funded grant program to assist Tribal Members as a payer of last resort for medical expenses referred
outside of an I.H.S. or Tribal clinic. CHS funds are limited. Having other insurance will reduce your out-of-pocket expenses
for these medical expenses. For more information, call 269.704.8349.
Q If I need a ride, who do I call if it’s not health related?
A If you are in need of transportation and it is not health related, NHBP Membership Services may be able to provide that to
you. You can contact their department in either the Grand Rapids location or Pine Creek at 269.729.5151.
Q Is the fitness center only open to NHBP Tribal Members?
A The NHBP fitness centers are open to all adults eligible to use the NHBP clinic. The fitness center is also open to the 14-18
age group with some usage restrictions. Call the Health Department for more information at 269.729.4422.
HE ALTH QU IZ
 Which of the following is a benefit of breastfeeding?
a. Breastfeeding lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes in
the infant
b. Breastfeeding promotes weight loss in the nursing
mother
c. Breastfed babies have fewer allergies
d. All of the above
 Colon cancer is the 5th most common cancer in the
 Which of the following is NOT a reason to eat locally
grown food?
a. Locally grown produce is full of flavor
b. Local food has more nutrients
c. Local food is available year around
d. Local food promotes a safer food supply
 When it comes to dental health, prevention is NOT
important. You should only see the dentist when
there is a problem.
a. True or False
United States.
a. True or False
 What is the recommended daily sugar intake for
adults?
a. 0 grams
b.15 grams
c. 25 grams
d. 30 grams
Please submit quiz answers by April 15, 2015 to be
entered into a drawing for a $20 gift card to:
Justin Gephart, Community Health Educator
1474 Mno-Bmadzewen Way | Fulton, MI 49052
[email protected]
Take the Health Quiz and enter to win a $20 gift card!
Name
Address
City
State
Zip Code
There are many good moccasin tracks along the trail of a straight arrow. - Sioux
14
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NHBPI.COM | 269.729.5151
Credits: We would like to thank Frank Barker, Gun Lake Band of the Pottawatomi Indians, for his guidance and language expertise in the
creation of this publication, and NHBP Environmental Department staff for the cover photos of Tribal Maple Syrup (front) and growing strawberry
plants (back). Migwéch!
Gwiwenzemen
{we will do good, we intend to do right}
OUR MISSION
The mission of the NHBP Health Department is to foster the independence of our community through
professional, compassionate, inclusive and culturally integrated health care service. We commit ourselves
in recognizing and nurturing self-reliance and empowerment through education and service to Tribal
Members through the promotion of healthy lifestyle choices.
CONTACT US
Southern Clinic & Services
Pine Creek Clinic.....269.729.4422 Toll Free: 1.888.729.4422
Pine Creek Behavioral Health.....269.729.4422 Toll Free: 1.888.729.4422
Contract Health.....269.704.8349
Pine Creek Dental....269.729.4422 Toll Free: 1.888.729.4422
Northern Clinic & Services
Grand Rapids Clinic.....616.249.0159 Toll Free: 1.888.662.2808
Grand Rapids Behavioral Health.....616.249.0159 Toll Free: 1.888.662.2808
Grand Rapids Dental....616.249.0159 Toll Free: 1.888.662.2808
QUART E R LY H E A LT H & WE LLN E SS MAG A Z IN E fro m th e NOTTAWASEPPI HURON BAND o f the POTAW ATOMI