Wednesday

When learning about childbearing practises in this culture I found it sad that the drugs and alcohol do not make much of a change when pregnant. There are a few women that we have encountered that are either hospitalized or in treatment currently. I was aware of the high risk that it can bring to the pregnancy, however I am happy that some are aware to try and want treatment. Some family types that I have observed are both polar opposite. We have talked about families that have really cared for their families and supported them through their hard times. However, we have also seen families who have suffered with addiction themselves and did not support their families. Tonight we had talked about how the tribal and 'white' families were not happy many years ago when the pastor and his wife started dating. The support systems in the community that I have seen are the friends that are made in treatment. I found it very powerful that the bond that these individuals create with each other during treatment. Other support systems are the tribe, churches, the health care staff and also the community in general. I thought it was a great to hear that the church we had visited tonight was go open to taking in anyone who needed someone. Resilience is a person that is able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult situations. When considering the families and how they are able to bounce back from stress, challenges and the vulnerabilities that they face through the Cherokee culture I think about 'their story' and what they have all came across in their lives. The families and the children that are resilient have each other to help them get through their heart times. I have come to realize that the Cherokee individuals are very strong and 'promises' and trust means more than anything in their culture.