TULSA, Okla. – The River Spirit Casino in Tulsa was packed with people as it hosted the 22nd Annual Pink Party, an event where people from all over could celebrate those who have survived breast cancer, whether they be male or female, and bring some awareness to the disease.
The party, which had the theme of Las Vegas, was attended by numerous dignitaries from Muscogee Nation, including Principal Chief David Hill, Second Chief Del Beaver, National Council Speaker Randall Hicks, and Acting Secretary of Health Tim Hicks.
“This is one of our biggest events in the history of the Muscogee Nation Department of Health. I think we have close to 700 folks registered today.” Acting Secretary Hicks said in a statement to local media outlets. “We’re extremely excited to celebrate our survivors, and we’re excited to celebrate life and fellowship with our citizens today.”
There were numerous speakers in attendance as well, including the Second Chief, and Lisa Riley, a breast cancer survivor and the owner of the Pinot’s Palette located in Jenks.
“Not everyone is blessed with the perspective that the Good Lord has blessed me with, and the perspective I see is that I see a lot of very strong Muscogee women and men. This thing called cancer… it doesn’t just affect you. It affects your children, your mom, your dad, your grandparents, and so to see everyone here that have not just survived, but actually thrived… It shows how strong you are.” Second Chief Del Beaver said in a speech to the attendees.
The Muscogee (Creek) Nation’s Department of Health has 3D mammogram technology in several hospitals across eastern Oklahoma, including Coweta, Council Oak in Tulsa, Okmulgee, and Okemah. Secretary Hicks would also make sure to stress the importance of early detection for breast cancer in his opening remarks for the party.
Also on-site were a variety of booths for organizations all over the reservation whose topics ranged from physical health, such as registering for appointments, to mental health, such as crisis hotline information, along with a wide variety of information for attendees to use.
Those who wish to learn more about breast cancer and MCN Health’s efforts to combat it, or who wish to schedule a screening, can do so at MCN Health’s website, https://www.creekhealth.org/
