ANCHORAGE, Alaska - The National Indian Health Board recognized five Navajos in the field of health and gave them awards during the annual awards ceremonial luncheon here on Sept. 28, during their conference, "Health, Hope, and Heroes: Using the Foundations of Tribal Values and Knowledge to Advance Native Health!"

Jerry Freddie of Dilkon, Ariz. and former Delegate of the Navajo Nation Council, and member of the Health and Social Services Committee of the Navajo Nation Council, received the "Jake Whitecrow Award, which is the highest award bestowed upon an individual for commitment to the health of Native Americans and Alaska Natives.

Freddie said that he was humbled by the recognition and award during his brief comments following the award.

"I am grateful to receive this award and I'm honored to represent the Navajo Nation, Native Americans, and Alaska Natives," Freddie stated. "There are many health issues that face us and we need to continually address them so that health services may be delivered to our Native people."

Anselm Roanhorse, of Tohatchi, N.M., was given the National Impact Award for his work in addressing the Cross-State-Border issues related to Medicaid. He served as the chairman of the sub-committee in making it possible for residents of Arizona in receiving Medicaid assistance in New Mexico as well as citizens of New Mexico receiving Medicaid in Oklahoma.

"I was surprised when I was informed of the award," said Roanhorse. "Our work on the Cross-State-Border issues was hard work and it took a lot of our time to make it possible for citizens of those states to receive Medicaid when they crossed each other's stateline."

Three members of the Division of Health were nominated by Anselm Roanhorse.Former Director of the Division of Health, received Local Impact Awards: Sylvia Etsitty-Haskie, Darwin Mitchell, and Darlene M. Salabiye.

Etsitty-Haskie served as a Health Planner for the Navajo Nation for more than 20 years. A major project that she coordinated during her tenure was the planning and construction of the Fort Defiance Indian Hospital in Fort Defiance, Ariz. As Planner/Coordinator for this project, she worked with multiple agencies, a local steering committee, and communities to advocate for the replacement of a hospital built in the 1930s. The new, state-of-the-art facility now provides quality health care to a population exceeding 28,000.

Another of her achievements is the establishment of a committee to address trauma care on the Navajo Nation. Because of her committee's work, the renowned American College of Surgeons scheduled a trauma system consultation for the Navajo Nation.

Darwin Mitchell, Recreation Specialist, Fort Defiance Service Area with the Navajo Nation Special Diabetes Project received the award for his positive impact on community members who have benefited from his activities. Mitchell's presentations are in great demand from various organizations and individuals. He was described by his supervisor as highly energetic, motivated, engaging, and a multi-tasker. Mitchell has had a particularly notable impact on elders at the local senior centers, teaching good habits, and exercise techniques.

Darlene Salabiye, Health Education Technician, Gallup Service Area, NNSDP, was recognized for her selfless dedication to advancing the health of Native people.

Salabiye received recognition for her work as a Senior Community Health Worker and influencing clientele across the Navajo Area, especially in the Gallup Service Area. She has been instrumental in organizing community events, including walks, runs, bike rides, and other physical activities. She promoted collaboration with other health providers from the Indian Health Service, County Health, and school programs through the facilitation of diabetes prevention and physically-focused activities.

The Navajo Nation Special Diabetes Project offered their congratulations to Mitchell and Salabiye for their selection and representing the staff for their hard work in combating diabetes on the Navajo Nation.