Day 8: Recap

This week, I experienced generosity in all encounters. From the start, we were welcomed with open arms. Not only did staff at CIHA welcome us into different settings to observe their practices, but we were invited to some of their most private and sacred places.

While immersed in the Cherokee culture, we were able to improve the health of others through the generous donations we were able to give. They expressed such thanks for the items, and it was very heartwarming to find out how far the donations would go to help children and families. The items are often given to foster families or grandparents who have taken over responsibility of caring for their grandchildren.

With the way the Cherokee healthcare system is designed, this population has every opportunity to be healthier for future generations. Most of the resources they need are so readily available, making it easier for them to take the initiative to promote their health or manage their current conditions. Since being in Cherokee, we have been able to see the vicious cycle that is responsible for this population’s poor health. The main contributors to poor health among the Cherokee is addiction to drugs and alcohol. Addiction has ruined so many lives within this population and change needs to be made for the health of future generations, or the cycle will continue, and individuals and families will suffer.

This week, I stepped out of my comfort zone through being in an environment different than my own. I am such a homebody and I felt very vulnerable being so far from home, amid a culture completely different than anything I have ever experienced. However, I feel that in order to grow and reach your full potential, change is necessary.

Looking back, I remember not knowing what to expect. I was excited to have this opportunity, but I was also very nervous. This experience has changed me in more ways than I could have ever imagined, and it is something I will always carry with me. I have been impacted through meeting so many great leaders who inspire change and have felt refreshed to see a culture put their patients back at the center of healthcare. In my future practice, I will use this experience to be inclusive and understanding towards everyone I meet to provide them with the highest level of care.