April 3, 2009
Native Women’s Journey to Wellness is May 1, 2009
The Native Women’s Journey to Wellness conference will be held on Friday, May 1, 2009 in Great Falls at the Holiday Inn from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
According to Charlotte Kelley of the Montana Breast and Cervical Health Program for the Department of Public Health and Human Services, Native American women who attend the conference will come away better prepared to help people make healthy lifestyle changes that will enhance the quality of life in their communities.
“We invite all Native American women who are interested in learning leadership skills to attend this conference,” Kelley said. “Participants will learn about the resources and crucial support systems that are available.”
The registration deadline is April 24, 2009. Cost to attend is $35 and includes lunch. The conference brochure, registration information and event agenda is available online at www.cancer.mt.gov. To access, click on the Montana Breast and Cervical Health Program link.
There will be exhibits and displays to enjoy. The exhibits will be focused on Native women and healthy lifestyle choices. In addition, attendees will be given the opportunity to get a free health screening by I-Pharm through the University of Montana Department of Pharmacy Practice.
Guest speakers include:
- Kibbe Conti, RD, Oglala Sioux. Conti will be presenting on Native American culture and good nutrition to help fight diabetes and other chronic illness in Native Americans.
- Vanessa Short Bull, Oglala Sioux. Short Bull was named Miss South Dakota in 2002. She has a delightful sense of humor and will share her humor with the participants of the Native Women’s Journey to Wellness.
- Dr. Fred Avis, Deputy Medical Director, Sletten Cancer Institute. Dr. Avis will talk about the Native American Cancer Disparities Project.
- Kathie Avis will share her experience as a breast cancer survivor.
Other topics include cultural competency in Indian country, Indian women in action, women’s health and developing strong community leaders.
Space is limited. Anyone interested is urged to call or register on-line as soon as possible.
Scholarships for mileage reimbursement are available on a first-come basis. Funds are limited and are intended for applicants who do not have opportunities to attend health conferences through their employment. For scholarship information contact Lita Pepion at (406) 208-5779 or e-mail Lita@CRLHealth.com.
For more information contact Charlotte Kelley at 406-444-7858, chkelley@mt.gov or Val Weedman at 406-444-5442, vweedman@mt.gov
Page last updated: 04/03/2009
