Achi news desk-
The Blood Tribe Health Department’s first ever health fair is underway.
Officials say the goal of the fair is to shed light on the health challenges facing the first nation.
The event is being held at Red Crow Community College between May 21 and 23.
The college halls are full of booths that contain various welfare services for Blood Tribe residents.
Blood Tribe Health Department CEO Derrick Fox says the event will have a positive impact on the community.
“(We) want to make sure people are aware of all the agencies, programs and support here in the nation,” Fox said.
On Wednesday, the fair hosted a panel of speakers who have battled addiction.
“I feel it’s my responsibility to help and give back to my community,” said presenter Chief Moon.
“Hopefully sharing my story will inspire someone just like I was inspired by someone else who stood up there at one point.”
Another speaker was former professional hockey player and current Saskatoon Blades assistant coach Wacey Rabbit, who celebrated his four-year sobriety anniversary in April.
“You want to feel like you’re not alone,” Rabbit said. “I think that’s the most important thing for anyone struggling. You feel like you’re taking on all these challenges alone when you don’t have to . In today’s world, strength requires help.”
The health department says that the response to the fair has been positive so far.
“We’re going to build on this year’s event, and moving forward, we want to showcase this annually,” Fox said.
