A Publication of Indian Health Care Resource Center of Tulsa
Spring 2017
Photo Courtesy of Kendras Keepsake Photos
Operationally Speaking BY DEBBIE STARNES, DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR The last six months have been busy at IHCRC. We started November with our accreditation visit and survey. Every three years practices and activities must be reviewed and evaluated in order to determine accreditation. IHCRC is pleased to announce that we passed with flying colors and have once again received accreditation, as well as certification as a Medical Home by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). On November 28th we joined together to celebrate 40 years of service to Tulsa’s Native American community. It was a wonderful evening as we commemorated the past and looked toward the future. The recognition of Carmelita Wamego Skeeter was perhaps the highlight of the evening. Carmelita helped with the study that evolved into Indian Health Care Resource Center of Tulsa. After serving as clinic administrator, Carmelita 2 IHCRC Spring 2017
became Chief Executive Officer in 1989. We are honored to serve with her as she continues in her 41st year. February was blue but only for a moment as IHCRC held its annual Dance of the Two Moons: Blues Moons. The event featured amazing artistry and entertainment. Almost 450 individuals joined us, helping to raise more than $175,000 for our youth and family programs. More information and pictures from the event may be found later in the magazine. In June 2016, the N7 Fund awarded IHCRC $10,000 in seed money for a youth running club. IHCRC could not have anticipated what would happen next. Youth have become stronger and healthier. They have become socially connected with one another and with others they have met through community races. Families have begun running and working out together. Youth selfesteem has improved. Youth have learned to provide encouragement to others including their own family members. See more of their story later in this issue or watch their video at www.youtube.com/ihcrc. IHCRC also kicked off the Patient
Portal. Health records can be viewed on a computer or a mobile device. This is the first time this service has been available for IHCRC patients. We are looking forward to a great summer of Health and Wellness Camp. This year will be new and fun as we spend some time with our friends at the Westside YMCA. Youth will be able to participate in swimming, hiking, archery, team games, the double pipeline slide, and much more. More information is available on our website www.ihcrc.org. Also on the schedule is Family Fun and Fitness Day. Be certain to check out the information located in this magazine. There is so much going on at IHCRC it is difficult to place it all in one space. Be certain to check out our websites (www.ihcrc.org and www.ihcrc2moons.org) and our Facebook pages (www.facebook.com/ihcrc and www.facebook.com/ihcrc2moons) on a regular basis for up-to-date information. You can also sign-up for our monthly email newsletter. Our redesigned website will soon be unveiled so keep watching.
In This Issue of Healthy Spirit IN THE CLINIC Accessing Personal Health Records......................................................12 Help Manage Your Diabetes with Exercise...........................................14 IHCRC Welcomes Pre-Doctoral Psychology Interns.........................16 IHCRC Celebrates 40 Years of Service..................................................20 Running Strong with IHCRC’s New Run Team..................................22 No Time to Cook?...................................................................................26 EVENTS Dance of the Two Moons..........................................................................4 Family Fun and Fitness Day...................................................................13 Health Education and Wellness Classes................................................26
MEDICAL SERVICES HOURS Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 7:45 am-5:00 pm Thursday 9:45 am-7:00 pm 1st Friday of the month the Medical clinic opens at 1:00 pm (closed in morning for staff training) BEHAVIORAL HEALTH HOURS Monday-Wednesday; 8:00am-6:00pm Thursday 10:00am-7:00pm Friday 8:00am-5:00pm 1st Friday of the month the Behavioral Health clinic opens at 1:00 pm (closed in morning for staff training) WIC NUTRITION HOURS Monday-Wednesday; Friday 8:00 am-5:00 pm Thursday 10:00 am-6:00 pm 1st Friday of the month WIC opens at 1:00 pm (closed in morning for staff training) SCHEDULED APPOINTMENTS To schedule an appointment, call 918-382-1224, press option 1. If you are unable to get your preferred appointment time, please schedule for the first available appointment. Patients may call back and check to see if an opening becomes available that better suits their needs. IHCRC ADMINISTRATION Carmelita Skeeter Chief Executive Officer Judy A. Gibson Chief Financial Officer Stacie Nutt Chief Human Resource Officer Tanya Cain Chief Operating Officer
Running Strong with IHCRC’s New Run Team
on page 22.
DEVELOPMENT STAFF Debbie Starnes Development Director dstarnes@ihcrc.org Tonia Gist Development Specialist tgist@ihcrc.org John Young Marketing Specialist jyoung@ihcrc.org IHCRC Spring 2017 3
WWW.IHCRC2MOONS.ORG
@ihcrc2moons
We No Longer Have the Blues! BY JOHN YOUNG, MARKETING SPECIALIST The party began with a fun-filled reception and silent auction. Guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvre while mixing, mingling, and making new friends. The ballroom opened and guests were greeted with the music of the Native Nations Youth Council Drum Group and the dancing of youth Fancy and Jingle Dress Dancers. Honorary Chair, Principal Chief Bill John Baker of the Cherokee Nation welcomed everyone to the event. A delicious dinner was served followed by a video created by youth of IHCRC’s Running Strong Run Team. After the video it was time for the live auction. Excitement filled the air as featured artist Liz Ingersoll’s stunning 96 inch long metal print of the Tulsa skyline was placed up for bid. Wrapping up the auction was an incredible collection of Rustic Cuffs donated by Interior Logistics (Terry and Jill Donovan). Then it was time to dance when Cecil Gray and Native Blues hit the stage. All of this fun would not be possible without our sponsors and donors. There were so many generous donors and sponsors this year, we have chosen to recognize them on the following pages. Thanks to these businesses, individuals, and tribes, we raised more than $175,000. We want to give a very special thank you to Tiger Natural Gas for being our Presenting Sponsor! Because of our donors and sponsors almost 2,000 youth and their families are learning how to make better life choices ranging from exercise and nutrition to how they interact with each other and the world. They are growing healthy and strong both physically and mentally. They are building 4 IHCRC Spring 2017
confidence, leadership skills and self-esteem. They are learning about their heritage and gaining a sense of identity and belonging. The Dance of the Two Moons dinner and auction was established 27 years ago as an annual fundraiser to help support the many great programs and services provided to the Native American community. Proceeds from the event support many of IHCRC’s programs and services, including: the Annual Restoring Harmony Powwow, Youth Spring Break Camp, Youth Summer Wellness and Cultural Camps, and IHCRC’s newest program the Running Strong Run Team. Did you miss out on the fun this year? Mark your calendars for March 10, 2018. Be sure to stop by our event website www.ihcrc2moon.org and like our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ihcrc2moons. There are more pictures from the night and you’ll be among the first to have information about next year’s event.
Presenting Sponsor 2017 Community Sponsors WHITE BUFFALO PATRONS • H.A. and Mary K. Chapman Charitable Trust • Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation EAGLE SPONSORS • Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa • Delores Titchywy Sumner WOLF SPONSOR • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma BEAR SPONSORS • Burt B. Holmes • Carmelita Skeeter • Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma • IHCRC Jeans Pass Staff • Meeks Group • OSU Medical Center and OSU Center for Health Sciences BUFFALO SPONSORS • American Airlines, Inc • CamGlass, Inc./Eller & Detrich, P.C. • Canyon Creek Energy • The Chickasaw Nation • Childers Architect • Commerce Bank • CommunityCare • Diagnostic Laboratory of Oklahoma • First National Bank of Broken Arrow • Interior Logistics • Oklahoma City Indian Clinic • Osage Casino • Public Service Company of Oklahoma • Jim and Sharon Ruley TABLE PATRONS • Dr. Jay & Nancy Anderson • Janice Edmiston & Ceasar Williams • Ruth Kaiser Nelson • Ross and Margaret Swimmer • Law Offices of Ken Ray Underwood OTHER SPONSORS • Urban Inter-Tribal Center of Texas • Southern Plains Tribal Health Board
6 IHCRC Spring 2016
IHCRC Spring 2016 7
Dance of the Two Moons 2017 Donors IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER Event Donors Dr. Aliakber and Farida Akberali Larry and Linda Almanza Dr. and Mrs. Jay Anderson Tom and Sherry Askew Ron and Catherine Bishop Randy & Tammy Blair Greg Burn Mrs. Joy Burnidge Tanya L. Cain Robyn Campbell Lou and Don Carmichael Harry and Monica Champ Terry Cline Lupe Cole Donnie and Gayla Cox Heidi Dawson Paul Demuro Dee Ann Dickerson Eller & Detrich, P.C. Afsar and David Emery Luke and Ann Essman Trilla Frazier Judy A. Gibson Dr. Jesicah Gilmore Lance and Colette Gopffarth Jenny Graham Gloria and Charles Grim Brandi Hines Dr. and Mrs. Arthur Holleman Jennie Howard Dr. Valerie Howard Mary Howard Teresa Huggins Pat & Katherine Hummingbird Kerry James Dorothy J. Jones Kimberly-Clark Dr. Pat and Patti Lester Jim Lyon 8 IHCRC Spring 2017
Lee Marks Dr. and Mrs. Dean Martin Dr. Gene and Bonnie McCormick Margaret McIntosh Jennifer Miller Kortney Mills Jay and Kelly Mounce Bill Osburn Elizabeth Parrott Vivian Phillips Arden and Joyce Roberts Edward E. Rogers and Neill Bear Floyd Rogers and Luzana Graff Jim and Sharon Ruley Ryan and Katie Sacra Chris Samples Tim and Joanna Shadlow Stacey Shuman Carmelia Skeeter Larry and Janet Smith Leah Speer Dr. Erica Starkey Debbie Starnes Rodney & Patti Sumner Judy Supernaw G. Renee Sweeden Tiger Natural Gas Hank and Jeannie Van Veen Mary Ann and Andrew Vassar Steven and Marcy Wakeford Cathryn Wamego Robert and Pam Wamego Tony and Jan Wamego Paulette A. Wamego and Michael L. Tiner Bill Wamego and Carol Hinkley Lawns By Randy, LLC Dr. Jill Warnock Williams Homegrown Giving
Jeans Pass Staff Linda Almanza Ellen Archie Sherry Askew Stacy Berg Donna Birkenfeld Catherine Bishop Chelsey Brady Bridget Bright Tanya L. Cain Robyn Campbell Virginia Cox Tammy Davis Heidi Dawson Crystal Dombrovski Zandra Drywater Deni Fholer Tia Fowler Judy A. Gibson Dr. Jesicah Gilmore Tonia Gist Jo Ann Gower Patricia Gail Hamilton Jenifer Hamma Kelly E. Henderson Brandi Hines Deanna Holman Kyahi Howard Molly Hurst Dr. Jennifer Jones, OD Kasi Ketcher Miranda Kohut Angie Lanning Fatima Lara-Rodriquez Megan Leath Kimberly W. Lohman Amber Martin Dr. Dean Martin Leslie McQueen Jennifer Miller
Kortney Mills Dee Dee Mims Jay and Kelly Mounce Dotti Murdock Jacquelyn Nickel Josh Nooner Brian and Stacie Nutt Nancy O’Banion Daniel and Julia Olson Alicia Kay Ortman Elizabeth Parrott Destiny Pollak Jennifer Porritt Opal Price Cindy Reed Mary Revels Monique Rice Ryann Richey Yolanda Robinson Becky Sheofee Carmelita Skeeter Dreama Smith Leah Speer Sandra Stanford Debbie Starnes Brittany Stephens G. Renee Sweeden Lori Sweeney Brenda Taylor, LPN Bridget Teel Angela Thacker Karen Thomas Alisha Tibbles Therese Tierce Emily Vo Dawnna Wallace Lisa Weiche Kendra Welborn Nicole Woodmansee John J. Young Lisa Young
Auction Donors 1905 Basin Park Hotel A Servants Hands Massage Therapy, LLC Dr. Aliakber and Farida Akberali American Airlines, Inc. And Then There Were Two Dr. and Mrs. Jay Anderson Andolini’s Pizzeria Andy’s Fine Portraits Be Love Yoga Beadles Portrait Gallery Big Guys Inc. Bohemian Pizzeria BounceU Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels Case Tennis Center at LaFortune Park Charlie’s Chicken Chateau on the Lake Donnie and Gayla Cox Norman and Lesa Crowe Janice Edmiston and Ceasar Williams Luke and Ann Essman Deni Fholer Fine Airport Parking Fogue and Bates Tobacconists of Tulsa Fuel 66 Tonia Gist Gorfam Marketing, Inc. Grand Vin Bottle Shop Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa High Gravity Homebrewing & Winemaking Supplies Hilton Garden Inn Midtown Jennie Howard Ida-Red IHCRC Health & Wellness Department Ihloff Salon and Day Spa Liz Ingersoll of Mia Bella Art Interior Logistics, Inc. Jackie Cooper Imports James Avery Jewelry Just Gotta Jump
Kendra Scott LaserQuest Lyon’s Indian Store Marley’s Pizzeria Marshall Brewing Company Masa Mazzio’s Italian Eatery Karen McAhren McNellie’s Group/Dust Bowl Lanes and Lounge Merritts Bakery Moon Tower Bar and Grill Steve and Phyllis Nabilsi NDN Art and Framing New Balance NewsOn6 Nibbles Eatery Nichols Landscape, Inc. Nancy O’Banion Panera Bread Parkhill’s South Liquors & Wine Philbrook Museum of Art Pinot’s Palette Polo Grill Teresa Prins-Wood Purple Glaze Studio RedStone Construction Joyce and Arden Roberts RH91 Roka Bar & Asian Flavors Edward Rogers and Neill Bear Russell Stover Candies Rustic Cuff Shangri-La Resort Silver Dollar City Attractions Carmelita and Andrew Skeeter Starbucks Debbie and Lynn Starnes Patrick and Madeline Teague The Campbell Hotel and Event Centers The Cheesecake Factory The Phoenix The Snow Goose IHCRC Spring 2017 9
Dance of the Two Moons 2017 Donors Continued IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER The Vault Kate Tocatjian Tom’s Bicycles Tulsa Air and Space Museum The Eagle 103.3 Tulsa Hills Wine Cellar and Cigar Cellar and Market Tulsa’s Incredible Pizza
Cha’ Tullis Tulsa Drillers Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge Tulsa Foundation for Architecture Tulsa Segway Tulsa Spirit Tours Tulsa Sports Commission Tulsa Zoo Management, Inc.
Two Guys Bow Tie Co. TW’s Catering Upper Crust Wood Fired Pizza Phil & Cinda Viles YMCA of Greater Tulsa
Recognizing the generosity of our donors and supporters is important. We apologize if there is an exclusion or inaccuracy that may have occurred in acknowledging those who are important to us. Please contact Debbie at dstarnes@ihcrc.org or 918-382-1203 so corrections can be made in future publications.
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IHCRC Spring 2017 11
Accessing Personal Health Records Through the Patient Portal INFORMATION PROVIDED BY INDIAN HEALTH SERVICE
The first step to access your Personal Health Records (PHR) through the Patient Portal is registering for an account. This can be done by visiting IHCRC and requesting a login. We will walk you through the registration process and ensure you know how to use the features. Be sure to bring a valid form of identification to complete the sign up. Registered users can access their PHR through the Patient Portal located in IHCRC’s Medical Department waiting area, or anytime through a computer or mobile device by visiting phr.ihs.gov.
What can you do with The Patient Portal? • • • • • • • • •
View your lab results Learn about your medications Keep track of your health issues View a list of your medications Save a copy of your health information Send an e-mail message to your health care team Make sure the information in your medical record is correct View a record of your immunizations Share your health information with a caregiver or family member
Frequently Asked Questions Can I see my health information from more than one clinic or hospital?
Yes, you can see your health information from more than one health care facility. When you log into the PHR, you will be asked to choose which facility’s information you would like to view.
How do I recover my Username or Password?
Select the Forgot Username or Password link and follow the instructions on that page.
How often does my PHR get updated?
Your PHR is updated when your facility updates and sends your record to your PHR. This is done at least once every 24 hours during business days.
How soon can I expect a response to my secure message?
Response times may vary depending on the message content and care team’s preferred method of responding. Secure messages should only be used for your health information. If you are having an emergency, call 911.
Registered users visit: phr.ihs.gov The information in your PHR is not a complete medical record. Some services, tests, and medical advice that you have received at the facility may be marked as sensitive information. To obtain a complete record of your medical record, contact your doctor.
12 IHCRC Spring 2017
FAMILY FUN AND FITNESS DAY FFFD
June 10th at Reed PARK 8:30AM to 11:00AM TO REGISTER VISIT
www.familyfunandfItness2017.eventbrite.com
• One Mile Fun Run or WALK • Inflatable obstacle course • Family games and Activities • Prizes and other giveaways • Water and Snacks Provided
IHCRC Spring 2017 13
Help Manage Your Diabetes with Exercise
BY: STACY BERG, MS, LPC, CDE, DIABETES EDUCATOR/CASE MANAGER
“Through the years I became a diabetic and was put on meds that caused me to gain 50 pounds. I also have bad knees and a frozen shoulder. All things conducive to being depressed which is my biggest problem. The exercise program has helped my confidence and my flexibility. Before I couldn’t walk without pain now I can walk on a treadmill for 20 minutes. I have a caring doctor, nutritionist, and exercise therapist.” -IHCRC Patient Diabetes and exercise go hand in hand. Exercise is an important part of your diabetes management plan. It can help improve your blood sugar, increase your overall fitness, lower your blood pressure and cholesterol, and lower you risk of heart and blood vessel disease and stroke. Whether you already work out at a vigorous level or are just getting started, exercise is a must have in your diabetes self-management tool box. 14 IHCRC Spring 2017
There are some important steps to take before beginning a new exercise regimen. First talk to your doctor about any risk factors you have that may limit certain types of exercise. Find out what types of exercise are appropriate for you. Most people benefit from a combination of aerobic exercise and muscle strengthening exercise. If you have been inactive for a long time, your doctor may want to check the condition of your heart before giving you
recommendations. Remember if you ever develop chest pain during exercise call 911 immediately. Keep an exercise journal to determine the best time of day for you to exercise so that your exercise is coordinated with your meals and medications. Always test your blood sugar before, during and after your workout. Safety is your first priority. If your blood sugar is below 100 mg/dl, it may be too low to work out safely. Many people need to have a small carbohydrate snack before exercise to keep them from experiencing hypoglycemia. On the other hand, if blood sugar is 300 mg/dl; it is best to postpone your workout until your blood sugar drops below 250 mg/dl. This is a good topic for you to discuss with your diabetes educator.
The American Diabetes Association recommends that adults with diabetes get 30 minutes of moderate level intensity aerobic physical activity at least five days a week. If someone is wanting to lose weight, typically a person will need to exercise for sixty minutes five days a week. Whether it is spring, summer or the cold of winter make a plan to get more active and help keep your diabetes well controlled. For more information, IHCRC has a nationally accredited diabetes education program with educators available to patients. Referrals to the program can be made through your primary care provider at the clinic. IHCRC Spring 2017 15
IHCRC Welcomes Pre-Doctoral Psychology Interns BY: DR. JASON MENTING, DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL TRAINING
On September 1, 2016, IHCRC welcomed three new pre-doctoral psychology interns to the Behavioral Health Department for a one-year internship. Having the internship is mutually beneficial for the interns and the community. This is the last stage of the interns’ training before earning their doctorates and they have already accumulated hundreds of hours of therapy and assessment provision before they start. This means they begin the year equipped with a high level of training and are working on refining their skills. IHCRC provides the interns with an opportunity to complete their training by working in an integrated care facility serving an underserved community, which are both rich training experiences. The community benefits from the services that the interns provide during their year at IHCRC, including the provision of individual psychotherapy and psychological assessments. Their ability to conduct psychological assessments is particularly helpful to the community because it saves patients from a significant expense that would come from getting this service at an outside agency. The interns also provide additional services, including group therapy, assessment of crisis walk-ins, and screening for alcohol use and depression during medical appointments. They also engage in community outreach activities, including the annual powwow. The aim of the internship program at IHCRC is to develop psychologist who are able to work effectively in underserved communities, particularly American Indian communities, and work in integrated care facilities. IHCRC has been fortunate to receive ongoing funding from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) Graduate Psychology Education (GPE) Program to help support their training. Additionally, the internship is part of the Northeastern Oklahoma Psychology Internship Program (NOPIP), an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited consortium, which further helps support the interns’ training. Here is a chance for you to get to know the current interns, Helen Giang, M.A., Jessica Hogan, M.A., and Kara Kerr, M.A. 16 IHCRC Spring 2017
Helen Giang, M.A. “I never imagined how grateful I would be to have ended up as a pre-doctoral intern with NOPIP and IHCRC. I was born and raised in San Diego, CA where I am also a student at Alliant International University, pursuing a Doctor of Clinical Psychology degree. Prior to becoming a doctoral candidate, I received training as a Behavioral Interventionist, working with children with Autism. My training background as a doctoral student includes working with adults with severe mental illness at a residential treatment facility and inpatient units at two hospitals. My clinical focus has always been on developing my clinical skills to work with a variety of individual’s, but ultimately to work with children. The training and experience I have received at IHCRC has far exceeded my expectations. Not only has IHCRC provided me with opportunities to immerse myself in a culture and community different from my own, but it has also strengthened my skills as a psychologist.”
Jessica Hogan, M.A. (Chickasaw) “I am incredibly excited to be completing my pre-doctoral internship with NOPIP and IHCRC. I am from the Twin Cities originally, but completed my doctoral coursework at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Chicago, Illinois. I have trained in a variety of settings, including college counseling, community mental health, private practice, and inpatient psychiatric units. While in school, I also engaged in volunteer work tutoring at-risk youth, mentoring a refugee family, co-facilitating grief groups for children, and co-facilitating workshops on chronic disease management for senior citizens. My research has primarily focused on trauma, community violence, and eating disorders. I sought an internship with IHCRC because I wished to continue developing my multicultural competence and continue working with underserved communities. My training experience thus far has exceeded my expectations, allowing me to immerse myself in clinical work with an incredible community, engage in community outreach, and develop a sense of confidence as a future psychologist.”
Kara Kerr, M.A. “I am excited to have been able to return to IHCRC after completing a practicum here in 2014-2015. I am a native Oklahoman, having lived in Tulsa and Owasso throughout my life. I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Tulsa, obtaining a degree in psychology and a Certificate in Women’s and Gender Studies. I am currently a PhD candidate in clinical psychology at the University of Tulsa. During my first year in graduate school I worked as the laboratory supervisor in the Psychophysiology Laboratory for Affective Neuroscience under the direction of Jamie Rhudy. I then began conducting neuroimaging research in depression and eating disorders at the Laureate Institute for Brain Research. My previous clinical experiences have included practicum sites at a college counseling center, private practice in pediatric neuropsychology, inpatient eating disorders program, minimum security women’s prison, and of course IHCRC! I have enjoyed working with patients with a diverse set of needs and presenting problems while on internship. I believe this internship has been a great asset to my development as a clinical psychologist. I greatly appreciate the welcoming spirit of the staff here at IHCRC and am looking forward to the time I have remaining here!” IHCRC Spring 2017 17
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Carmelita Skeeter, IHCRC CEO and Brian O’Hara, Deputy District Director for Congressman Jim Bridenstine. 20 IHCRC Spring 2017
IHCRC Celebrates 40 Years of Service BY: JOHN YOUNG, MARKETING SPECIALIST In November of 2016 IHCRC held its Annual Meeting and 40th anniversary celebration at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino’s Sky Room in Catoosa, OK. The spectacular view was the perfect setting to recognize those who have been contributors to IHCRC’s success this past year and those who have helped shape IHCRC into what it is today. Wally Trepp of PRESCOR, Inc was named Donor of the Year for demonstrating philanthropic values by donating purely for the betterment of our Native youth. Volunteer of the Year was presented to Joyce Roberts, AEP/PSO for her involvement with IHCRC’s events and programs including the “Running Strong” Run Team. Employee of the Year was given to Jenifer Hamma, Patient Benefits Supervisor, for exceptional leadership and dedication. Patient of the Year was given to Debra Pax, a long time patient of IHCRC, considered to be a “shining star” by many. Elder of the Year went to Mary Taylor. At 77 years young she is an inspiration to all who meet her. Youth of the Year was given to Gwendolyn Wilson. Her passion for volunteerism and commitment to her studies ensures she will shape our future in a very positive way.
Carmelita Wamego Skeeter, IHCRC’s CEO received the Years of Service award for her tireless dedication to IHCRC and the Native American community over the last 40 years. Her involvement and accomplishments are too numerous to list and her impact on lives is significant. Her passion for providing quality comprehensive health care has shaped the culture of the organization. You cannot work for or with Carmelita Skeeter without her dedication, hard work, and caring nature becoming a part of you. From the first patient who walked through the door to the 18,000 active patients who currently call IHCRC their medical home, IHCRC has greeted each one with the patient in mind. In the past 40 years almost 250,000 people have walked through the doors of IHCRC. Many of them continue their care with us today. Some have grandchildren, great grandchildren, and even great, great grandchildren who are now receiving care. It is and has been an honor to serve every single one of these individuals and families.
IHCRC Spring 2017 21
Running Strong with IHCRC’s New Run Team
BY: JENNIE HOWARD, FITNESS EDUCATOR Running Strong is a running program for Native youth and adults. The program started in the Fall of 2016 when IHCRC received a grant from The N7 Fund which allowed 25 Native youth to sign up for the program. Since then, IHCRC has received funding to allow parents of the youth as well as other Native American community members to join the club. We currently have 25 youth and 22 adults in the program. Over the past six months, Running Strong participants have had the opportunity to run in five community races including the Zoo Run, Route 66, Jingle Bell Run, Rudolph Run, St. Patrick’s Day Run, and most recently the Aquarium Run. During these past few months, youth participants were fitted for new running shoes, given a three-month membership to the YMCA during the winter months, and had the opportunity to volunteer at the Day Center for the Homeless.
In December 2016, Tulsa Runner fitted the youth for new running shoes. In order for the youth to receive their shoes they had to complete an eight-week activity log. Youth had to track their physical activity which included running, soccer, walking the dog, swimming, football, etc. before they were eligible to be fitted for the new shoes.
During the winter months, participants had a YMCA membership which allowed them to utilize any YMCA in the Tulsa area. The Running Strong team met several times together during the winter months for aqua jogging at the Tandy YMCA pool. Aqua jogging is a non-impact form of running done in place in the water wearing a flotation belt.
In February the Running Strong Team volunteered at the Day Center for the Homeless. During their volunteer time at the Day Center the youth and their parents helped organize the clothing and shoe closet, filled shampoo/soap containers, folded sheets and blankets, and helped cleaned mats. Prior to volunteering at the Day Center for the Homeless, the kids held a shoe drive and collected used shoes to donate to the homeless.
The Running Strong Program has many success stories. When the program first started most of the youth and adults could only run one mile. After a few weeks of training most of the group were able to complete 3 miles. After the Aquarium Run, we had five runners complete the 10K (6.2 miles). Other successes include, improved race times, youth placing in their age group categories, youth encouraging parents to improve their fitness and run the races with them. 22 IHCRC Spring 2017
DISCOVER THE HOTTEST PICK FOR YOUR NEXT MEETING OR EVENT.
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24 IHCRC Spring 2017
5/15/15 9:43 AM
JOIN US for A KENDRA GIVES BACK PARTY enjoy sips, sweets and jewels THURSDAY, JUNE 8TH |
5PM - 7PM
KENDRA SCOTT AT UTICA SQUARE 1842 UTICA SQUARE, TULSA, OKLAHOMA 74114 20% of the proceeds benefit INDIAN HEALTH CARE RESOURCE CENTER
IHCRC Spring 2017 25
No Time to Cook?
PROVIDED BY: THE AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION It’s one of the most common excuses for hitting the drive-thru or heating up a frozen dinner. That’s right - we justify these less healthy choices by claiming that there is simply no time to cook. Or is there? A drive-thru usually involves waiting in line and may include additional waiting time after ordering. Heating up a frozen meal could take ten minutes or more to heat up in the microwave. In reality, there are plenty of quick and healthy meals you can make on your own in the same amount of time. Cooking at home gives you the opportunity to make fresh meals packed with the nutrition that you need to manage your weight and your diabetes (if you have it). Its spring time, so it’s a great time to start fresh and make healthy eating a priority. Let’s start by forgetting the misconception that cooking healthy takes an excessive amount of time. IHCRC can help teach you how to make quick and healthy meals at home with our Diabetes Cooking Classes. To find out how you can attend our Diabetes Cooking classes please call 918-382-2222.
Diabetes Cooking Class Schedule
Need ideas for diabetic friendly meals? Join us as we create healthy meals that won’t break the bank and help you manage your diabetes. Instructed by Jackie Nickel, RDN, LD and Adrienne Hefner RDN, LD. MAY • Wednesday, May 5th 11:00 am • Thursday, May 25th at 5:30 pm JUNE • Wednesday, June 7th 11:00 am • Thursday, June 22nd at 5:30 pm JULY • Wednesday, July 12th 11:00 am • Thursday, July 27th at 5:30 pm Some classes fill up early. Please register in advance by visiting the Health Education and Wellness reception desk or calling 918-382-2222. 26 IHCRC Spring 2017
“If it wasn’t for Indian Health Care Resource Center and all the people that choose to be here and really invest their time with heartfelt care, I don’t know where my family and I would be.”
Society of the Medicine Wheel We invite you to join this caring community that provides financial strength to improve the health and well-being of literally thousands of Native Americans each year.
Thank You to Our 2017 Members! Dr. & Mrs. Aliakber F. Akberali Larry and Linda Almanza Dr. & Mrs. Jay and Nancy Anderson Tom and Sherry Askew Nicholas Barusulai Stacy Berg Donna J. Birkenfeld Catherine Bishop Bob and Gloria Bitting Tanya L. Cain Robyn Campbell Donnie and Gayla Cox Virginia F. Cox Heidi Dawson Elizabeth A. Duncklee, LCSW Janice Edmiston and Ceasar Williams Luke and Ann Essman
Denise Fholer Judy A. Gibson Dr. Jesicah Gilmore Tonia Gist Jo Ann Gower Kristi S. Grubb Kelly E. Henderson Brandi R. Hines Dr. & Mrs. Arthur Holleman, III Deanna Holman Dr. Valerie M. Howard Jennifer L. Howard Kerry James Kimberly W. Lohman Dr. and Mrs. Dean E. Martin Dr. and Mrs. Jason Menting Jennifer Miller
Jay and Kelly Mounce Brian and Stacie Nutt Nancy A. O’Banion Daniel and Julia Olson Elizabeth Parrott Becky Sheofee Carmelita Skeeter Sandra Stanford Debbie Starnes Renee Sweeden Patrick and Madeline Teague Therese Tierce Andrew and Mary Ann Vassar Shawna Webb LaToyia and Eucild Williams Stacey Wilson John J. Young
Donors in color have given at the highest level.
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Thank you for being an integral part of our “Caring is Strong Medicine” Team. If you have any questions or would like to be removed from our mailing list, contact John Young at 918-382-1206 or jyoung@ihcrc.org. 918-588-1900 | www.ihcrc.org