Radio News

Ho-Chunk Win Health Award
2009-01-19

Health education is a key goal within the Ho-Chunk Nation. And the work being done by the Ho-Chunk Cancer Task Force was recently honored for its efforts to promote health.

The American Cancer Society awarded the Ho-Chunk volunteer group with its Diversity Leader Award for its efforts to fight cancer.

Louise Voss, Ho-Chunk Health Education Director said, "One of things that makes us proud about the award is the hard work and dedication and compassion our group has had toward fighting cancer in our communities."

Voss added the Cancer Task Force is focused on getting the right cancer information out to those who need it. "Our goal is to improve the lives of the Ho-Chunk people through cancer education. It started a few years ago when some of the survivors thought we should be doing more to get information out there."

The Ho-Chunk Cancer Task Force has many resources for those dealing with cancer, including:

  • The third Thursday of every month there is a cancer support group. The group is for those living with cancer, a spouse, a partner of someone with cancer. Participants can talk or just listen. The support group meetings are held in the Black River Falls Tribal Aging Unit Building.
  • A birthday card campaign that targets Ho-Chunk people aged 50-75. The card also serves as a reminder for them to go in for their annual doctor visit and to get cancer screenings.
  • Night of Remembrance. Friday, May 22nd. This event celebrates cancer survivors and those that passed away from cancer. The event is held at the Andrew Blackhawk Memorial Pow-Wow Grounds in Black River Falls.
  • Share the Care Conference. May 6-7 in Lac du Flambeau. The conference deals with cancer issues affecting the Native American communities.

    • For more information call Louise Voss at (715) 284-9851 ext. 5053.