Stay Sun Smart & Hydrated in July!
- Hydrate Right: Drink water frequently, not just when you're thirsty.
- Protect Your Skin: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ every 2 hours.
- Beat the Heat: Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
- Know the Signs: Recognize symptoms of dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Hydration Awareness
Why It Matters:
- Dehydration can impair physical and mental performance and may lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
- Vulnerable populations include children, the elderly, athletes, and outdoor workers.
Daily Water Intake Recommendations:
Practical Tips:
- Carry a water bottle throughout the day.
- Consume water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges.
- Limit high-sugar and high-caffeine drinks, which can contribute to dehydration.
Sunscreen Awareness
Why It Matters:
- Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States.
- Unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation increases the risk of premature aging, sunburn, and melanoma.
Sunscreen Guidelines:
- Choose broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
(Source: American Academy of Dermatology)
Common Myths:
- "I don’t need sunscreen when it’s cloudy."
UV rays penetrate clouds and can still damage skin.
- "Darker skin doesn’t burn."
While melanin offers some protection, everyone is at risk of skin cancer and should use sunscreen.
Educational Resources
Tribal Wellness Services:
Diabetes Prevention & Management
In an effort to combat the growing epidemic of diabetes in American Indian and Alaska Native communities, the Samish Indian Nation Diabetes Program provides a variety of services to help delay or prevent a diabetes diagnosis while also reducing the risk of complications. These services are designed to educate tribal citizens on the risk factors of diabetes while encouraging prevention and management, physical fitness, nutrition, foot care, and vision care.
Eligibility Requirements:
You must be an enrolled Samish tribal citizen.
You must reside in our 12-County Service Area (Clallam, Island, Jefferson, King, Kitsap, Mason, Pierce, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston, or Whatcom County)
Diabetes Application Packet
Note: Physical signature is required on HIPAA form. Return completed forms by:
Mail:
Samish Indian Nation
PO BOX 217
Anacortes, WA 98221
ATTN: Olivia Duvall
Or scan completed form to diabetes@samishtribe.nsn.us.
If you would like us to send you an application with paid return postage, please reach out to diabetes@samishtribe.nsn.us.
Services We Currently Offer:
Monthly Diabetes Educational Information:
Informational flyers regarding how you can prevent and manage your diabetes will be posted each month.
Diabetes Care Incentive Program:
This initiative is designed to support and encourage citizens in managing their diabetes and health while recognizing their dedication to wellness. Eligible participants may receive incentives per completed activity. Qualifying activities include:
- Eye Exam (once per year)
- Dental Cleaning / Exam (twice per year)
- Foot Exam (once per year)
- A1C Test (twice per year)
To utilize this program, you must be enrolled in the diabetes program.
To receive the incentive, you can submit this form: Diabetes Care Incentive Program Verification Form or provide other proof of appointment such as a visit summary or EOB.
Email forms to diabetes@samishtribe.nsn.us.
Open to All Samish Citizens in Our Service Area:
Samish Fitness Challenges:
Spring Fitness Challenge 8 Weeks: March 30th - May 24th. REGISTRATION CLOSED.
Fall Fitness Challenge 8 Weeks: October 6th - November 29th REGISTRATION DUE OCTOBER 1ST.
Extra Activity Logs: Activity Logs
Click Here to Submit Digitally: Digital Activity Log Submission
Send Registrations & Activity Logs to: wellness@samishtribe.nsn.us.
By Mail:
Samish Indian Nation
PO BOX 217
Anacortes, WA 98221
ATTN: Olivia Duvall
If you have any questions, please reach out to us at wellness@samishtribe.nsn.us.
SKAGIT COUNTY RESIDENTS:
Farm to Table Program: NO INCOME LIMIT
We will be introducing a bi-weekly food box pick up at our cannery campus in the atrium. This partnership with the Puget Sound Food Hub Farmers' Cooperative will bring fresh food from our local farmers around the Puget Sound.
Sign-ups for this service is required: Farm to Table Sign Up Sheet