Recorded presentation

Barbara Mould Young, RN, MHP, Out Patient Psychiatry/Nursing Program, Providence Health Care System/ South Puget Sound Community College, 511 Lilly Road, Olympia, WA 98512, 360-493-4696, y2byoung@yahoo.com

Circa 1993, Shoalwater Bay Indian Nation, Indian Health Service and University of Washington published "The Joint Report," describing ninety percent infant mortality on the reservation. Although these statistics are not in terms of thousands of deaths per live births, each death was significant to the tribe. The Report implicated access to care, environment, health behaviors and economics. In actuality, the tribal community was in depression and its members were impoverished. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation funded "Returning to Health." Eight women in the tribal community formed a focus group to plan the healing journey. They began by making masks and sharing their stories of grief and loss. Eleven masks were selected to be carried to Washington, D.C. Currently, a new health clinic provides initial access to care. A gymnasium had been built for community gatherings. Under construction is an alternative healing center. "Summertime in Georgetown," a collection of stories by tribal women was published to generate funds for a Spirit House. Slowly, births are occurring and children are returning to the tribe.

Learning Objectives: Participants will

• Identify storytelling as an important process in grieving and expression of loss;
• Recognize the significance of incorporating and revitalizing ancient wisdom for wellness;
• Define and/or create an art form in group and community work for healing the spirit.

Keywords: Infant Mortality, Alternative Medicine/Therapies

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation