Native American Support
Cancer Survivorship in Indian Country Supported by Indian Health ServiceThe Need
American Indians diagnosed with cancer have approximately 30% lower survival rates than other groups. For the most common cancers (breast, cervical and prostate), the survival rates for American Indians fall even further behind.
Cancer survivors still experience social isolation in many American Indian communities. Because American Indian cancer survivors often hide their illness, they may not receive the support of extended family, clans and villages. This may perpetuate a myth that a cancer diagnosis is always fatal.
Cancer support programs, developed and administered by American Indians, can fight the myths that prevent people from seeking early diagnosis and effective treatment.
These support programs can also reduce the social isolation and stigma American Indians diagnosed with cancer sometimes experience in their own communities.
The Model
A Gathering of Cancer Support was developed by Mary P. Lovato, a member of New Mexico’s Santo Domingo Pueblo and a survivor of leukemia, in conjunction with People Living Through Cancer. After a successful bone marrow transplant, Ms. Lovato returned to her pueblo with a commitment to break the silence surrounding cancer, confront the social stigma that she and her family experienced, assist others diagnosed with cancer, and educate the pueblo about cancer and cancer survivorship.
This model has been adapted by Native American communities around the country:
- Educational programs for those dealing with cancer
- Cancer support groups and one-on-one support
- Patient advocacy to help clients participate fully in available healthcare resources
- Transportation to screenings, treatment, and follow-up care
This modelhas gained national recognition for being one of the nation’s early cancer support programs developed by American Indians and serving American Indians.
The Training Program
Twice a year, People Living Through Cancer, Inc. and the Indian Health Service sponsor a free, week-long training for American Indians interested in developing cancer survivorship programs in their communities. The training is based on A Gathering of Cancer Support and People Living Through Cancer’s nationally recognized grassroots support programs.
If you are an American Indian, interested in breaking the silence about cancer and fighting the stigma associated with a cancer diagnosis, we invite you to participate.
American Indians attending past trainings have come from 20 states, representing 50 different tribes. They are cancer survivors, family members of someone diagnosed with cancer, community health representatives and other healthcare professionals. All are committed volunteers working to develop cancer support programs in their own communities.
The Curriculum
The next Cancer Survivorship in Indian Country training will be held July 25-28th.
The Training takes place in Albuquerque and includes the following:
- Information on cancer and treatments
- Emotional support techniques
- Support group facilitation
- Grass–roots organizing
- Assistance in planning community programs
- Consultation with healthcare professionals
- Bereavement issues
- Visits to a New Mexico Pueblo or Native American community
- Opportunities for cultural exchange
The Indian Health Services collaborates with PLTC to support cancer survivorship in Indian Country. The training is based on the "Together We Walk The Path" Curriculum developed by People Living Through Cancer.
Contact
Patricia Torn, Quality of Life Support Manager
Phone: (505) 242-3263 or Toll Free at: 1-888-441-4439
Email:
How To BECOME A Facilitator
Please respond to the pre-registration form questions and submit to be considered as a candidate for the facilitator training.