More than 100 Indigenous community members and allies gathered last week at the Rochester Museum and Science Center to hear actor Gary Farmer (Cayuga), and a local woman named Gabriele Papa (Seneca), speak about their experiences navigating cancer diagnoses.
Farmer, known for his recent roles in the series Reservation Dogs and Resident Alien, spoke about his health journey as a long time diabetic and cancer survivor. Papa, a young woman, spoke about being dismissed by her doctors for months until she finally found herself in the emergency department at her local hospital. Both utilized western medicine during their treatment, in conjunction with Traditional cultural practices throughout their care and recovery. Farmer and Papa emphasized the importance of advocating for yourself about what is and is not working, making sure you have the right support system around you, and not being afraid to ask questions or stand your ground for what you need.
Hosted in partnership with the Indigenous Health Coalition, Friends of Ganondagan, and Native American Community Services, the event also featured resource tables from local cancer service providers at URMC’s Wilmot Cancer Center and Roswell’s Department of Indigenous Cancer Health. Local Indigenous caterers also provided a selection of food samplings.
Local health and social service providers can contribute to the health and well-being of the Indigenous communities in our area by better understanding of the unique and complex causes of Indigenous health disparities. Pete Hill, special initiatives coordinator at Native American Community Services and member of the Indigenous Health Coalition, is hosting a full day cultural competency training at Partners in Restorative Initiatives here in Rochester on July 10 and in Syracuse on August 21.
