Melissa Buffalo, MS, Chief Executive Officer - Ms.Buffalo is an enrolled member of the Meskwaki Nation in Iowa and Dakota from the Crow Creek and Lower Brule Sioux Tribes. She received her undergraduate degree in child psychology from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities and earned an MS in Human Development from South Dakota State University. Melissa has over 15 years of experience working in the public health sector in a variety of different roles. She brings a wealth of knowledge to the American Indian Cancer Foundation (AICAF). As the CEO, Melissa is committed to working with and for tribal communities, both urban and rural, supporting our Indigenous people with opportunities to heal; emotionally, historically, spiritually, and physically from the burdens of cancer.

A few highlights from the show:

1. 3 key strategies that AICAF uses to achieve its vision and mission: (1) bringing attention to cancer burdens and solutions, (2) advancing capacity through training, technical assistance, and culturally tailored resources, (3) identifying solutions to cancer challenges through partnerships with health departments, larger healthcare systems, and community organizations.

2. Laughter is medicine.

3. Trauma does NOT define us.

Follow and learn more about AICAF: 

https://americanindiancancer.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanIndianCancer/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanindiancancer/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-indian-cancer-foundation

About Me:

In 2011, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, out of the blue. I did not have any prior health concerns or issues.

Fast forward, the dreaded cancer diagnosis opened my eyes, introduced me to my purpose, and lead me to where I am today.

As a Cancer Doula, I use my 10-years of experience with cancer to support and guide others diagnosed with cancer. Many people are not familiar with what a cancer doula is. Think of me as a personal health care advocate.

Schedule a free 30-minute meet and greet call to learn more. https://bit.ly/OTOSDiscovery

Looking for a gift for yourself, a friend, or a loved one who has been diagnosed with cancer or they are a caregiver? Visit my shop.

Thanks for joining us on today's episode of the Navigating Cancer TOGETHER podcast! If you enjoyed today's episode, please head over to Apple Podcastsand leave a rate and review to help me reach even more people that are facing cancer. Make sure you visit On the Other Side, follow me on Instagram, or sign up for my bi-weekly newsletter to get information and resources related to cancer.

https://www.ontheotherside.life/

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