About 100 people accepted the invitation of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council’s Teechuktl staff to enjoy a catered turkey dinner and holiday season fun. They started arriving at Thunderbird Hall at 2 p.m.
Vendors were brought in to deliver information, ranging from health care to emotional support. Teechuktl staff provided brushings in a private area to individuals and families wishing to partake.
A Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council nurse spoke with people and offered diabetes and hypertension screening. They also delivered health care advice to those concerned about diabetes and high blood pressure.
A representative from Tsow-Tun Le Lum Substance Abuse and Trauma Centre gave information about the programs and services offered by the Nanoose-based First Nations-run treatment centre.
NTC Vice-President Andy Callicum welcomed the crowd, telling them he’s seen lots of progress for Nuu-chah-nulth nations thanks to the hard work of the leaders, both past and present.
“We’ve made progress in T’aaq-wiihak and the case is moving forward; our Quu’asa program is the envy of other nations delivering immediate care to our people,” he said, adding that many people have to wait months to see a counsellor. “We are incredibly lucky to have this treasure.”
He thanked the team, saying they are very caring and proactive.
Callicum also invited the people of the region to come talk to him if they have political questions on their mind that he may be able to help with. Recent changes in health benefits has caused confusion about coverage for certain prescription medication and hearing aids. Callicum said he would be happy to discuss these and other issues with the people.
Samantha Christianson thanked the Teechuktl team on behalf of the people.
“Thank you for bringing us together for this lovely dinner,” she said. She went on to remind people that the holiday season can be a stressful time for many and she reminded them that there are resource people in the room to talk to.
“Or…sing Christmas carols at the top of your lungs – that will help you destress,” she advised.
The Quu’asa Urban Gathering event was coordinated and funded through the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council’s Teechuktl Quu’asa Program. For more information contact Ruby Ambrose at Ruby.Ambrose@nuuchahnulth.org or Ina Dick at 250-724-3939 or toll free at 1-888-624-3939.
The Urban Gatherings will continue on through Nanaimo, Victoria, Vancouver and Seattle in the coming days.
