FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Santa Fe, NM – October 22, 2024 – The Cancer Foundation for New Mexico is proud to announce the second annual Gathering for Native American Cancer Care, a day dedicated to education, inspiration, and community for Native American cancer patients, healthcare professionals, and advocates. The event will take place on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at the Buffalo Thunder Resort as part of Native American Heritage Month.
This one-day event brings together healthcare professionals, tribal leaders, and community members to discuss strategies for improving cancer care access and outcomes for Native American patients. Attendees will gain insights into culturally tailored cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship solutions.
Featured Speakers:
Dr. Linda Burhansstipanov – Pioneer in Native American Cancer Research
Dr. Linda Burhansstipanov (Cherokee Nation) has been a trailblazer in Native American public health and cancer research for over 50 years. As President of NavPoint Health and founder of the Native American Cancer Research Corporation (NACR), Dr. Burhansstipanov is a nationally recognized advocate for reducing cancer disparities in Native communities. She will present “Strategies to Overcome Barriers to Quality Cancer Care” from 12:15 pm – 1:00 pm, providing attendees with actionable insights on overcoming obstacles that prevent Native communities from accessing high-quality cancer care.
Joseph Brophy Toledo – Cultural Leader, Traditional Healer
Joseph Brophy Toledo has dedicated over four decades of service to the Pueblo of Jemez and Indigenous communities worldwide. As a traditional healer and cultural consultant, Joseph combines Western and Native healing practices to create a holistic approach to health and wellness. His passion for youth mentorship, earth stewardship, and cultural preservation has taken him to international conferences in Mexico, Canada, and Africa. Joseph will present “Cross-Cultural Medicine” from 10:30 am – 11:00 am, offering valuable insights into how these two approaches can work together to promote healing and balance in Native communities.
Carmen White – U.S. & Global Oncology Health Equity Lead at Pfizer Oncology
Carmen White will present “Breakthroughs for All – Clinical Trials” from 11:00 am – 11:45 am. Her session will emphasize the importance of equitable access to clinical trials and highlight Pfizer’s commitment to ensuring these trials reflect the diversity of communities impacted by disease. Carmen’s insights will underscore the need for representation in clinical trials, addressing disparities that often affect Native American populations.
Presentation Schedule:
Blessing & Welcome
Jenelle Roybal, Governor, Pueblo of Pojoaque
Cancer Overview and Addressing New Mexico’s Cancer Disparities
Colorectal and Genetic Screening
Cross-Cultural Medicine
Joseph “Brophy” Toledo
Traditional Healer, Jemez Pueblo
Breakthroughs For All – Clinical Trials
Carmen White, U.S. & Global Oncology Health Equity Lead (Pfizer Oncology)
Complimentary Buffet Lunch
Strategies to Overcome Barriers to Quality Cancer Care
Linda Burhansstipanov, MSPH, DrPH, OPN-CG, President NavPoint Health (Cherokee Nation)
12:15 PM – 1:00 PM
Patient Support Services
Patient Services and the Cancer Foundation for New Mexico
Followed by Question & Answer
Patient Services and the Cancer Foundation for New Mexico
Allison Donnell, ND, DOM; CHRISTUS St. Vincent Supportive Care Medicine
Karen Gano, LCSW; Oncology Social Worker
Shayna Grandbois-Herrera; Native Health Navigator
Deana Benjamin; Physical Therapist & Amy Thatcher; Speech Therapist
Closing Blessing
2:00 PM
Why It Matters
The Gathering for Native American Cancer Care offers a unique opportunity to share knowledge, inspire action, and foster community for Native American cancer patients and their families. This event aims to bridge the gap between traditional and modern healthcare practices and build a support network for those affected by cancer.
“We are honored to host this important event again,” said Antonio Guerrero (Indigenous Coahuiltecan), Marketing & Communications Director of the Cancer Foundation for New Mexico. “By coming together, we can create a dialogue that leads to meaningful change and equitable healthcare solutions for Indigenous populations.”
Registration
This event is open to healthcare professionals, patients, and the general public. Registration is required, and space is limited. To register, visit https://cffnm.org/nativehealth/ or call 505-522-2376 for more information.
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