Prairie Island Indian Community Supports Fight Against Diabetes Locally and ...( Donates to A...),Health

Donates to American Diabetes Association

Welch, Minn. (Vocus) May 29, 2009 -- The Prairie Island Indian Community understands the serious health issues that are associated with diabetes. Type 2 diabetes among Native Americans in the United States is 12.2% for those who are 19 years and older. Diabetes has reached epidemic proportions among the Native American population and complications from diabetes are major causes of death and health issues. Another concern is that Type 2 diabetes is becoming more frequent in the population of Native American youth.

In an effort to support the battle of this serious disease, a check in the amount of $20,000 was presented on behalf of the Prairie Island Indian Community to the American Diabetes Association at their 2009 Annual Gala held at the Saint Paul RiverCentre.

"The Prairie Island Indian Community's support of the American Diabetes Association is just one aspect of how the community is working together to fight this disease," said Ron Johnson, Prairie Island Tribal Council President. "The Prairie Island Indian Community Clinic provides the best possible diabetes care and education for our members. We partner with the Mayo Clinic and Fairview Red Wing Medical Center as well as bring in an expert in the diabetes field to our clinic every month."

The Prairie Island Indian Community also maintains a herd of buffalo for the benefit of all members, called the Edwin Buck Jr. Memorial Project. This effort combines the spiritual significance of the buffalo in the Native American heritage with a modern day need for a healthy form of protein for the community. The herd began in March of 1992 with one male bison bull and has grown to over 35 bison today. Several times a year Prairi
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