MCA Health Fair a Resounding Success

By Isaac White

The Kawehno:ke Recreation Center was alive with the spirit of community unity on Thursday, as the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Health Fair took center stage. The vibrant decorations and the overflowing parking lot were clear signs of the community's active participation and support, making the Health Fair a true testament to collective engagement.

At the heart of the fair's success was the profound collaboration among local health professionals, spearheaded by Amber Montour, Director of the Department of Health for MCA, and supported by passionate community figures like Joseph Saad, pharmacist manager and owner at Arrowhead Pharmacy. Reflecting on the teamwork, Saad remarked, "As soon as I see her team, I know why. This was a really great example of teamwork and collaboration. Miss Montour here is truly on the ball. Like if it's left to me, it's gonna take like two months minimum to do it the same way as she did it. I'm really thankful for what she's done."

Montour's leadership was pivotal in the swift and effective organization of the fair. Despite the challenges, she was quick to credit her team for their indispensable role.

"We needed to start doing health fairs here to help the community," Montour shared. "This event's success is truly a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff. They were the real heroes behind the scenes, ensuring everything ran smoothly."

Her commitment to continuity was clear, and she is already planning future events to cover all districts, emphasizing community-wide involvement.

Montour was clear that the vision and mission of her department were vital to the event and was eager to share with the community:

"Vision

Our vision is to shape a healthier future through reciprocity with our community.

Mission

The Department of Health believes the community is essential to health; emphasizing that the people themselves are the medicine that is vital for our collective well-being. We value all perspectives by encouraging open communication and active listening. By respecting elders and planning for our youth, we recognize everyone's role in achieving health goals. We are dedicated to supporting those in need, embracing our diversity, and providing high-quality services while creating a culture centered on continuous healing, wellness, and health."

Dr. Ojistoh Horn, a dedicated doctor at the MCA Department of Health, has been at the forefront of integrating diverse health services. She was enthusiastic about the collaborative spirit shown at the fair but was quick to distribute the praise.

"This event represents the culmination of many hands and hearts. Our team's commitment is what brought this to life. I merely facilitated their incredible efforts."

Her innovative approaches, such as introducing Botox injections for migraine relief, showcased her proactive stance in addressing community health needs.

The Health Fair provided an array of services – from screenings for diabetes, high blood pressure, and skin cancer to consultations for eye care and vaccinations – all available in one location for convenience and accessibility. The fair not only catered to immediate health needs but also offered educational sessions aimed at preventive care and wellness, echoing the community's broader commitment to health.

Montour and Dr. Horn both emphasized the collective effort.

"You're going to see so much commitment to bettering our community. They really have such a passion for health and wellness. I'm so proud to work alongside them," Montour noted.

Dr. Horn added, "Our goal is to bridge gaps in healthcare access and education. Today was a great step forward, thanks to everyone involved."

The community's response was overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees expressing gratitude for the direct access to health services and information. The fair not only served current health needs but also educated the community about preventive practices and available resources. This proactive approach is vital to ensure the well-being of Akwesasne for the future.

Looking to the future, the success of this Health Fair has laid a robust foundation for ongoing health initiatives in Akwesasne. Plans are already underway to replicate this event annually, ensuring it becomes a cornerstone of community health. Moreover, the organizers are exploring ways to expand the services offered, such as incorporating mental health resources and more specialized medical treatments in response to community feedback.

As Akwesasne continues on its path toward enhanced health and wellness, the success of events like the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Health Fair underscores the power of collaboration, dedication, and community spirit in making a tangible difference in people's lives. Looking forward, the fair promises to be an annual beacon for health in the community, ensuring each member's journey towards better health is supported and celebrated.

Montour also highlighted the importance of community feedback through a survey launched at the Health Fair.

"This survey will help us understand the pressing health concerns in our community and shape our future initiatives," she noted. The organizers encourage everyone to participate and share their views to help tailor upcoming health services more effectively."

The survey is available at the link below. It will help promote health in Akwesasne and is an invaluable tool for Amber Montour, Dr. Horn, and all the incredible staff who were there to help the community.

https://fr.surveymonkey.com/r/Department_of_Health_Priorities_Survey