Prairie Band Potawatomi Diabetes Prevention Program Offers Wednesday Walks

Native News Network Staff in Native Health. Discussion »

MAYETTA, KANSAS – The Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation's Diabetes Prevention Program staff has begun brief, 10 to 15 minute, Wednesday Walks on the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Indian Reservation.

On a recent visit to the Health Clinic, even Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Chairman Steve Ortiz(rear) got into the act.

The walks are held at various sites including the Boys and Girls Club parking lot at 10:30 am, the Fire Keepers Elder Center parking lot at 11:00 am, the Prairie Band Potawatomi Health Clinic at noon, and at the lower level parking lot at the Government Center at 2 pm.

Approximately nine times around the paved pathway near the Government Center equals one mile.

In addition, the Diabetes Prevention Program staff is planning to offer other exercise-related activities like a Zumba dance class and there is also an exercise equipment room with treadmills and weight machines located in the Health Center. The Boys & Girls Club is also collaborating with the Diabetes Prevention Program staff to offer programs and events at their facility in the future.

In the meantime, Kathy Sterbentz Registered Nurse and educator, is teaching a series of Diabetes Self-Management classes and Special Diabetes Program for Indians sessions. Melinda Williamson, the new Diabetes Prevention Program Manager, is cooking up some other activities related to the "Return to a Healthy Past" program that is dedicated to educating people on how to grow and preserve healthy foods.

If the weather is bad the Wednesday Walks will be conducted inside the buildings.

posted March 21, 2012 11:40 am edt