Why did you choose your specific health professional career?
As a young teen, I was exposed to the world of physical therapy when a close friend of mine injured her knee. I was impressed with the knowledge the therapists had regarding the human body and their ability to help patients regain body function(s) in order to return to a comfortable way of life. I was also impressed with how rapidly one could observe the results and progress, when using different therapeutic activities and exercise. That day I made a commitment to pursue a career in physical therapy.
What experiences did you have to make sure this profession was right for you?
I shadowed many different health professionals during high school (physicians, nurses, dentists, etc.). I later volunteered at an outpatient sports clinic as an undergraduate student. After I obtained my B.S. degree, I decided to work as a full-time physical therapy technician for one year. This opportunity allowed me to experience the different specialties within physical therapy.
Describe any obstacles or barriers to success that you encountered along your health professional career path. How did you overcome them?
My journey to attain a career as a physical therapist has been a challenging road. It has taken a lot of self-motivation and determination to get to where I am today. Although school was very competitive, it was a great life adventure that I do not regret. The availability of finances was also a constant challenge. Financial aid loans and the Indian Health Service Scholarship helped me a great deal during my education.
What do you do in your current job?
I am currently the Acting Physical Therapy Supervisor here at the Hopi Health Care Center on the Hopi Reservation. I supervise two physical therapy assistants within our out-patient facility. I treat patients of various ages and their injuries, such as ankle sprains, spinal cord injuries, vertigo and wound care. Because we are located in a remote and isolated area, we attempt to provide as much outpatient P.T. service as possible to help our patients return to and maintain a functional lifestyle.
What advice do you have for American Indian/Alaska Native students who are interested in health careers?
My advice to you is… don’t be intimidated by your obstacles, no matter what they are. Set your goals and perform your best. Never lose sight of the big picture no matter how hard it gets. Your desire to achieve, will allow you to succeed. My grandfather used to say, “Any man who is willing to try to do any job or accept any challenge, is bound to have moments of frustration and failure. And if he be a wise man, he will learn much from his failure and be in a better position to meet the challenges of the future.”
What would you like to see for your tribe’s future?
I would like to see the development of our current health care clinic. It would be a blessing to provide more specialty services to the community. I believe patient education is always important; therefore, I would like to see more emphasis upon patient advocacy as well as more patient education concerning his/her health and the healthcare system. This will allow the patient to become more proactive in their health care decisions.
Do you practice traditional medicine? If you do, then how does traditional medicine interact with conventional medicine?
No.