Author Archives: Ryan Running Rabbit
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Wildfire Smoke in Siksika Prompts Special Air Quality Statement
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During an Air Quality Event
During an air quality event, all individuals living in or travelling within the affected area are advised to be aware of potential health concerns that can be associated with poor air quality conditions.
- If you think you are having a heart attack or stroke or otherwise in need of immediate medical attention, dial 9-1-1
- Individuals with respiratory conditions (such as COPD and asthma), and individuals with existing cardiovascular conditions (such as angina, previous heart attack and congestive heart failure), may notice a worsening of symptoms, due to the poor air quality conditions. These individuals should monitor for worsening of symptoms and take the precautions recommended by their physicians if a worsening of symptoms occurs.
- Children and elderly are also at higher risk of health impacts from air pollution
- Individuals experiencing symptoms can also call Health Link at 811 to speak to a registered nurse. Health Link is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, toll free.
Exposed individuals who are otherwise healthy may have the following symptoms when exposed to wildfire smoke:
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Increased mucus production in the nose or throat
- Cough
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, especially during exercise
- Headache
Individuals are advised to take the following precautions to reduce exposure and risk:
- Close all outside windows and doors, including attached garage doors.
- Turn down furnace thermostats and furnace fans to the minimum setting. Do not attempt to extinguish pilot light.
- If you have an air-conditioner, keep the fresh-air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent outdoor smoke from getting inside.
- Avoid running fans, such as “whole-house fans” or “fresh air ventilation systems”, that bring more smoky outdoor air inside.
- Switch all floor registers to closed position.
- Close fireplace dampers on wood burning fireplaces.
- Do not use wood burning fireplace, wood stoves or other smoke-producing appliances or features, including candles.
- If you must drive to another location, keep windows and vents closed. Run car fans on re-circulate mode to avoid drawing in outdoor air. Vehicles should not be used as a means for shelter.
- Reduce levels of physical activity, as necessary, to decrease the inhalation of airborne pollutants.
- Do not smoke tobacco – smoking puts added stress on your lungs and those around you.
- Drink plenty of water to keep the nose and mouth moist
- Residents are reminded not to use backyard fire pits or fire boxes in parks when the air quality is poor.
- If you have room air cleaners with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, turn them on. Don’t use air cleaners that may produce ozone. For portable air cleaners, follow all the manufacturer’s instructions for changing the filter, where to place the device, and the size of room it’s meant to be used in.
Individuals experiencing symptoms can also call Health Link at 811 to speak to a registered nurse.
For wildfires resources including emergency planning kits, home guidance, and mental health support, visit ahs.ca/wildfires.
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The Blackfoot Invitational successfully returns after long hiatus
Leave a CommentBilled officially as “The Return of the Blackfoot Invitational”, the Siksika basketball staple went off without a hitch. The 20+ teams began play Thursday afternoon, kicking off 3 days of ball spread out between the Deerfoot Sportsplex gymnasium and at the Siksika High School. The Men’s and Women’s tournaments featured 11 and 8 teams respectively from all over Alberta, Saskatchewan, BC, and Montana. Both tournaments came to a close on Saturday evening followed by an official closing ceremony.
Results
Mens: Womens:
1st place: Van City, Vancouver 1st place: Creefoots
2nd place: Kainai Huskies 2nd place: Skoden
3rd place: NDN Family 3rd place: 406 Natives
The Calgary Surge
Calgary’s newest professional sports team, The Calgary Surge were also on-site for the Blackfoot Invitational as they joined in on Friday’s opening ceremony and festivities. “We’re honored to be here in partnership and friendship,” says Vice-Chairman & President of the team, Jason Ribeiro. In proper Blackfoot hospitality Ribeiro was also honored in ceremony with a traditional name, Aapaamskoomapii, which translates in English to “Across the ocean boy”
SHS Staff, Elder Clement Leather, and Calgary Surge Delegates pose for photo after Jason Ribeiro’s naming ceremony Thank you
To all who played, watched, and supported The Blackfoot Invitational. Siksika Health Services specially congratulates The Blackfoot Invitational Committee on a successful tournament and the Calgary Surge ahead of their inaugural season.
For more tournament info and history read more here: https://siksikahealth.com/programs-services/parks-recreation-services/blackfoot-invitational/
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Siksika Nation issues fire restriction
Leave a CommentDue to the dry, windy, and warm conditions that exist and are forecasted, Siksika Nation Emergency Services has issued a fire restriction effective April 28, 2023. The rapidly changing weather conditions may lead to a fire ban, with little to no notice.
A fire restriction prohibits the use of wood campfires on public lands. Fire permits may be restricted, suspended, or cancelled and no new fire permits will be issued.
Approved Recreational Fires
- Ceremonial smudges and sweats
- Private land campfires within a metal ring device or dug into the ground with some type of non-combustible material surrounding the pit.
- Portable propane fire pits contained within designated fire pits
- Barbeque charcoal briquettes
- Propane/natural gas powered appliances
- Indoor fire places
- Open flame oil devices
Prohibited
- Fireworks
- Exploding targets
- Public land campfires
For further information or clarification, please call the Siksika Nation Fire/Rescue during normal business hours at (403) 734–3999
This will remain in effect until further notice
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April hosts World Autism Awareness Day & Autism Acceptance Month
Leave a CommentApril 2nd is World Autism Awareness day and all month long we recognize Autism Acceptance month. In Canada and Alberta resources are available. Here is some educational information as well as resources available to parents of children with autism.
What is Autism?
Autism, also referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts brain development. This means that those with autism may experience difficulties with social interaction and communication.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is often accompanied by certain medical conditions such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, various gut abnormalities and immune dysregulation. Mental health issues such as anxiety and depression are common. These conditions can impact an individual’s quality of life in varying severities.
The way we describe autism is also changing the more we learn about the disorder. Terms used in the past and even now have created harmful stigmas, this has led the autism community to try and shift away from terms like “high or low-functioning” as well as quantifiers like “mild” or “severe”. This is because all diagnoses’ are unique and symptoms may display differently on a per person basis for example, someone may be non-verbal while still displaying better social skills than someone who can speak well. The medical diagnoses may unfairly label this person as being more “severely” autistic than someone who is verbal.
What is the “spectrum”?
The spectrum is a term you will hear a lot in relation to ASD and it’s referring to the range and variance of developmental impairment. Those living with ASDs may have particular characteristics in common but the condition covers a wide spectrum. The amount and type of symptoms, how they display, and their age at onset will all vary person-to-person.
Resources:
Autism Society Alberta (ASA) is a grassroots organization within the autism community connecting to its provincial members through regional partners and networking with agencies and associations throughout the province and nationwide.
ASA is dedicated to increasing public awareness about autism and the day-to-day issues faced by individuals with autism, their families, and the professionals with whom they interact. The Society and its partners share a common mission of providing information and education, as well as supporting research and advocating for programs and supports for the autism community.
There are 8 main resources centres throughout the province of Alberta and these will assist in paperwork, documentation, and resources for service provision and funding. Alberta Family Resource Centres provide services for all disabilities and also have a disability database that is accessible to everyone.
The Indigenous Relations Circle (ASA)
“The Autism Society of Alberta would like to introduce the Indigenous Relations Circle. Rooted in respect, the circles’ goals are to bring together diverse perspectives on the experiences of Indigenous peoples and autism in Alberta. The circle is a central concept to Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island and the Indigenous Relations Circle will listen, learn, share, connect and advocate for Indigenous autistic people and families.”
– Grant Bruno, Chair
Dr. Deborah Barret – Who will take care of our children?
- Part 1 Guardianship – Watch it HERE
- Part 2 Trusteeship – Watch it HERE
- Part 3 Power of Attorney & Personal Directives – May 17, 2023 – Register HERE
- Part 4 Wills – July 19, 2023 – Register HERE
Autism Aspergers Friendship Society Of Calgary
AAFS, a common collaborator with Siksika Health Services, was founded by a small, dedicated group of parents who saw a need for social and recreational programming specific to the ASD community. It was known to them that many youth on the spectrum of Autism did not fit within traditional day camps or recreation programs intended for typical children, nor did they feel comfortable with the structure of specialized camps and programs for children with disabilities.
A program was needed that would be tailored to their specific social and recreational needs; a program yet to exist where the staff understood their abilities and they would be accepted for who they were. A place where they could come and be empowered to take part in the world around them, and where they could become a vital part of their community.
Autism Calgary is an association of individuals and families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) striving to assist each other and the broader community so that those with ASD live meaningful and purposeful lives in a community that values them. The organization serves as the community of families, caregivers, and supportive professionals collectively striving for a supportive, accepting and understanding community for individuals and families living with ASD.
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March Madness 2023: Need to know
Leave a CommentMarch Madness is one of Siksika’s many yearly traditions and carries with it our love for sport. The youth basketball, volleyball, and hockey tournaments are a fixture and all take place throughout the month. Below you’ll find all the information you need to know to watch or take part in this years March Madness as well as some frequently asked questions.
Updates:
16+ Volleyball & U13 Hockey results are in!
1st place: Team Elizah 2nd place: Team Dylan 3rd place: Team Lilly
Tournament MVPs: Mia Twoyoungmen & Joel Auger
U13 Hockey:
1st place: Siksika Grinders 2nd place: Calgary NW Warriors 3rd place: Siksika Buffalos
Good luck to all participants, we hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable time.
FAQs
Q. What if I don’t have a team?
A. The quickest way to find a team if you haven’t yet is the DeerfootSportsplex@gmail.com email, a community team will be created so no one who wants to play is left out.
Q. What do I need to bring with me?
A. You should be bringing any of your sports relative equipment needed to play, as well all participants will need government issued photo identification verified prior to respective competition beginning.
Tournament Contacts:
U13 Hockey: Felicia Jerry – 403-727-0310
Basketball: Lanny Mchugh – 403-734-5735
Volleyball Tournament: JD Black – 403-918-0707
Handgame Tournaments: Tracy Calf Robe – 403-361-0391
Jr Men’s & Women’s Hockey: Chance Breaker-Calf Robe – 403-324-4624
Jr Women’s Hockey: Littlechief@gmail.com – 587-727-9004
For all other or general inquiries please reach out via email at DeerfootSportsplex@gmail.com
(2023 March Madness Posters) -
Many Guns Boxing & Fitness Winter Schedule
Leave a CommentMany Gun Boxing & Fitness Winter Registration
Many Guns Boxing & Fitness is always offering weekly and daily classes. A wide variety of classes for all ages means there's something for everyone. -
Siksika Community Wellness & Mental Health partner with Autism Aspergers Friendship Society of Calgary to deliver youth program
Leave a CommentSiksika Health Communications
The 6-week long youth program was a hit among participants and facilitators. The program was spearheaded by Dr. Pearl Yellow Old Woman-Healy and was designed with a focus on relationship building, friendships, social and emotional learning.
Through this partnership with AAFS participants took part in a drop-in style program following the initial registration.
“AAFS was founded by a small, dedicated group of parents who saw a need for social and recreational programming specific to the ASD community. It was known to them that many youth on the spectrum of Autism did not fit within traditional day camps or recreation programs intended for typical children, nor did they feel comfortable with the structure of specialized camps and programs for children with disabilities.
A program was needed that would be tailored to their specific social and recreational needs; a program yet to exist where the staff understood their abilities and they would be accepted for who they were. A place where they could come and be empowered to take part in the world around them, and where they could become a vital part of their community.” – Excerpt from www.aafscalgary.com
Programs like this provide a much needed services to this community and the relationship created between Siksika Health Services and Autism Aspergers Friendship Society of Calgary is one we are excited to continue.
“It was incredible to see how quickly the group went from being shy, quiet and maybe a little uncertain about participating, to opening up about their days, laughing and challenging themselves, both physically and socially. It was a short 6-week program, but I feel like everyone walked away having a new friend, us as staff included!” – Facilitator and Program Coordinator Kelsey Hofstetter.
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Ground Breaking Ceremony for Siksika Continuing Care Centre
Leave a CommentFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Siksika Nation and Siksika Health Services are proud to host a ground-breaking celebration at the site of the future Siksika Continuing Care Centre. Once completed, the residence will offer 34 continuing care spaces for Siksika Nation members, and surrounding communities.
WHO: Ouray Crowfoot, Chief of Siksika Nation; Jason Copping, Alberta Minister of Health; Dr. Tyler White, CEO of Siksika Health Services; Kory Duck Chief, Siksika Elders Lodge Lead
WHAT: Groundbreaking event and sign unveiling for future Siksika Continuing Care Centre
WHEN: Friday October 21, 2022, 2:00pm – 2:30pm
WHERE: Immediately west of Siksika Health & Wellness Centre – site of new Siksika Continuing Care Centre.
Continuing Care in Siksika Nation will serve the community for generations to come by supporting those living in the community with facility-based care, as needed. The future of continuing care includes the transition of the residents of the existing Siksika Elder’s Lodge and expanded services so that Siksika elders, for the first time, will have access to long term care and designated assisted living, in their own community.
“The future of continuing care will have changed forever on our reserve. Expanded services will be available so that Siksika elders, for the first time, will have access to long-term care and designated supportive living in their own community. The continuing care centre will also provide palliative and respite services while connected with independent living units and adult day support, planned for the site. The residents of the existing Siksika Elder’s Lodge will transition to the new continuing care centre,” says Nioksskaistamik, Chief Ouray Crowfoot.
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For information contact:
Jennifer Kohlhammer | Communications, Siksika Health Services
403-829-5366 | JenniferK@SiksikaHealth.com
Kory Duck Chief | Team Leader, Siksika Elders Lodge
403-901-9888 | KoryDC@SiksikaHealth.com
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Siksika Health Partners With Orpyx on Pilot Program
Leave a CommentSiksika Health Services (SHS) has partnered with Orpyx® Medical Technologies (Orpyx) on a pilot program to help prevent and reduce the occurrence and recurrence of diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) for Siksika members with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). Funding is through PATHWAYS Indigenous Health Collaborations, a partnership with Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd., and Bimaadzwin, with the support of GMAK Consulting.
This 24-week pilot will assess the effectiveness of using a digital therapeutic solution, Orpyx SI® Flex Sensory Insoles with Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) services, to prevent DFUs. The pilot will be available to 35 Siksika Nation members currently living with Type 2 Diabetes.
“Partnerships and access to technology like this allow Siksika Health Services to assist our Nation members who live with diabetes like never before,” commented Dr. Tyler White, CEO of Siksika Health Services. “It’s about quality of life and health improvement, which is ultimately what we are after here. So, I’m proud to collaborate with medical innovators like Orpyx and GMAK Consulting.”
Approximately 25% of people living with diabetes will develop a DFU in their lifetime, with 49% DFU recurrence in the first year and 68% recurrence within five year. In Alberta, there is one amputation every 22 hours resulting from a DFU. Diabetes is a particularly devastating disease for Indigenous populations in Canada, with 17.2% of on-reserve Indigenous populations diagnosed with diabetes compared to 10% of non-Indigenous populations.
“This collaboration is the first step in eliminating preventable DFUs within the Indigenous populations”, stated Dr. Breanne Everett, CEO and President of Orpyx. “Our long-term goal is to support Siksika Health Services in building a sustainable and cost-effective remote patient monitoring pathway for the delivery of quality health care to the Siksika Nation community.”
“What is exciting about this multi-collaboration with Siksika First Health Services and Orpyx is their innovative approach to the prevention of foot ulcers due to complications of T2D with the use of Orpyx SI® Flex Sensory Insoles and remote patient monitoring for their community members,” elaborated Allison Deer, Bimaadzwin Senior Project Advisor.
“Far too many of our people have lost limbs to this chronic disease and we are excited to contribute to a project that embraces amputation prevention. Our purpose at PATHWAYS is to optimize patient care and improve health outcomes through collaboration with the private and public sectors of development with the community as the driver of system change. We are proud to support this community-driven pilot to test grassroots solutions with potential national impact and begin to close the healthcare gaps for our people across Turtle Island.”
About the Partners
- Siksika Health Services (SHS) is a leader in providing quality, holistic health care to its members, and restoring a state of wellness through accountable and efficient service delivery as recognized by Accreditation Canada since 2005. With a population of more than 8,000 people, Siksika Nation located one hour east of Calgary, is considered one of Canada’s most technologically advanced and progressive First Nation communities, including being a leading community primary service provider.
- Orpyx Medical Technologies (Orpyx) is a digital therapeutic company with a comprehensive turnkey solution to extend the health span for people living with diabetes. Supported by a robust intellectual property portfolio of >90 patents, the Orpyx SI® Sensory Insole system, with remote patient monitoring, has been clinically proven to help detect and prevent complications caused by diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The insoles contain embedded sensors that have extensive capabilities to measure real-world physiological and physical parameters, which are then available to patients and their providers resulting in continuity of personalized and preventative care.
- Bimaadzwin means ‘life’ or ‘good path’ in Anishinaabe. An Indigenous-led consulting and policy group whose focus is on enabling First Nations communities to successfully reconstitute Nationhood by advancing health governance and economic development.
- Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. is a global, research-driven pharmaceutical company embracing many cultures and diverse societies.
- GMAK Consulting has supported transformative healthcare and partnerships for diverse populations, including Indigenous health, for over 20 years as a clinician, senior leader, strategist, and innovator. GMAK Consulting facilitated introductions between SHS and Orpyx and will be involved in the project from a clinical, cultural, and healthcare perspective.
For further information:
Ryan Running Rabbit, Communications, Siksika Health Services, (403) 361 0584, ryanrr@siksikahealth.com
Karen Smith, Marketing, Orpyx Medical Technologies, (210) 823-9604, karen.smith@orpyx.com
