Aware

Am I being self-centered?

Is my self-will taking up too much space?

Have my solutions stopped working?

Did I let old patterns creep back into my life?

Do I genuinely believe I’m thriving?

These are crucial areas in my life that I need to actively engage with. To maintain this awareness, I must take action. I’ll keep attending recovery meetings, continue sponsoring others, and listen to my own sponsor. I need to exercise regularly and be mindful of the nutrients I allow into my body. I will commit to learning and reading every day and actively practice the therapies I share with others. Most importantly, I will connect with my Creator throughout the day and make more space for my Ancestors.

Recap

As autumn 2025 approaches, I reflect on a year of meaningful progress in Indigenous wellness work. September brought valuable experiences in Big Pine, CA., including an immersive week with colleagues practicing traditional ceremonies and grounding techniques that reinforced our collective approach to healing.

At the National Indian Health Board Conference at Wild Horse Pass, my presentation on integrating traditional and contemporary healing practices sparked significant dialogue among healthcare providers and tribal leaders.

This month marked my acceptance as Chairwoman for the Rural and Indigenous Community Committee within Arizona's Adverse Childhood Experiences Consortium—a position focused on developing trauma-informed approaches that honor Indigenous perspectives.

My commitment to personal wellness continued at the Albuquerque Recovery Gathering, where I experienced Indigenous dry needling therapy—reinforcing that effective community support begins with self-care.

I'm particularly pleased to announce my new role as Technical Assistant Consultant for the Opioid Response Network supporting the Southwest region. This free resource is available to all Indigenous communities seeking wellness support. If your community would benefit from these services, please contact the Opioid Response Network directly.

I recently spent a week at Portland's National Wellbriety Conference to discuss approaches that strengthen both individual and community recovery paths.

Key Initiatives Throughout 2025

January: Completed specialized training on identifying and addressing human trafficking affecting Native communities through healthcare systems.

February: Contributed to the Maternal Mortality Review Committee while presenting on traditional dance as a healing practice at UCLA.

March: Took Indigenous Health Policy initiatives to our Senate in Washington, DC and facilitated a blanket exercise educating on Indigenous historical trauma at the 7 Generations conference.

April: Collaborated with an Indigenous botanist on plant medicine practices and organized a culturally-centered sobriety event structured around medicine wheel teachings.

May: Marked my 41st Birthday with renewed commitment to my wellness journey, my family's wellbeing and this work.

June: Facilitated talking circles with the Hualapai Tribe, strengthening connections across the reservation.

July: Presented alongside my children at the Indigenous Substance Use Disorder Treatment Summit in Minnesota, sharing perspectives on family recovery and Arizona's community-based approaches.

August: Led community yoga sessions and received recognition as Arizona's Best Wellness Practitioner—an acknowledgment of our collective efforts rather than individual achievement.

The path forward involves honoring traditional knowledge while developing responsive approaches to contemporary challenges. I invite you to participate in this important work as we continue building wellness resources that will benefit generations to come.

With respect and determination,

Casandra (Cas)

1 Year and 8 Months Since Leaving My 9-5 Government Job

It's been 1 year and 8 months since I left my 9-5 government job, and I haven't looked back since. In this time, I've accomplished over 120 wellness presentations, gained three mentees, and next month, my children will work with me for the first time at a treatment summit. I've been incredibly fortunate to receive monthly sponsorship from an amazing woman on the East Coast, which supported my travel and supplies for 6 months. Additionally, I've been awarded Best Rural Women's Health Practitioner of the Year by the Rural Women's Health Arizona Organization. I have much more to share and couldn't be more grateful!

Embracing Change

When I decided to leave my stable government job, I took a leap of faith into the unknown. Transitioning from the predictability of a 9-5 desk job to the dynamic world of wellness and community support was daunting. Doubts crept in, but I was guided by my passion for helping others and the desire for personal growth. Change is rarely easy; however, it can lead to profound and life-altering opportunities.

During this period, I learned to embrace the discomfort that accompanies change. Creating a plan and setting clear goals proved to be essential. I dedicated time each week to identify my objectives and to reflect on my progress. This method not only kept me focused but also motivated me to push through challenges.

The Impact of Wellness Presentations

One of the cornerstones of my journey has been hosting over 120 wellness presentations. Each session has been an opportunity to share strategies for holistic living, self-care, and community empowerment. These presentations have allowed me to connect with diverse groups of individuals, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

While each presentation is unique, I incorporate universal themes relevant to everyone's wellness journey. Topics include mental health awareness, nutritional education, and strategies for emotional resilience. The feedback I receive is incredibly rewarding, as many participants share how the knowledge gained has positively impacted their lives. For anyone interested in wellness, I recommend finding a niche that resonates with you and sharing that knowledge with others.

Building Relationships and Mentorship

In this journey, I have been fortunate to gain three mentees. Mentoring is fulfilling in ways I never expected—it allows me to pass on the lessons I’ve learned and support others in their own journeys.

Each mentoring relationship is unique; some mentees seek guidance on starting their wellness journey, while others desire to enhance existing knowledge. I tailor my approach to meet each individual's needs, focusing on their goals and aspirations.

Building these relationships has deepened my own understanding of my field and enriched my life. I encourage others to seek mentorship or become mentors themselves. The exchange of ideas and support is invaluable.

Collaborating with Family

This month, I’ll have the joy of collaborating with my children at a treatment summit for the first time. This opportunity symbolizes the bond we built over the past year and a half and reflects the values of healing and community I aim to instill in them. Working alongside my children will not only be a learning experience for them but a chance for me to model the importance of community service and wellness.

My children have watched my journey unfold from a distance, but their involvement marks a transition to shared experiences. I hope to inspire them to pursue their passions with confidence. If you're a parent, consider involving your children in your passions or community efforts. This can strengthen your bond and impart important life lessons.

The Significance of Achievements

In a recent milestone, I was awarded Best Rural Women's Health Practitioner of the Year by the Rural Women's Health Arizona Organization. This recognition validates my efforts and places my work within a broader context of community health and women's empowerment.

As an Indigenous woman, such achievements hold greater significance. They illustrate the resilience and strength inherent in my heritage. Acknowledging the struggles and triumphs of those before me motivates me to continue the work they started.

Recognition is not an end in itself, but rather a motivation to keep striving. It is essential to remember that every small step you take, in your personal or professional life, contributes to a larger narrative of growth and empowerment. Celebrate your victories, but keep pushing forward.

Growing Women's Circles

Another avenue I have pursued is the growth of women's circles. These gatherings foster healing and authenticity by creating a space where women can share their experiences, challenges, and successes. The support and understanding that arise in these circles cultivate strong connections and facilitate personal growth.

The benefits of community support are profound. Participants often leave feeling invigorated and understood. If you're considering starting a women's circle or any form of community meeting, focus on creating a safe and welcoming environment. Encourage openness and honesty, and allow each participant to shine.

Supporting Community through Sponsorship

I am incredibly grateful for the monthly sponsorship received from a generous woman on the East Coast, which supported my travel and supplies for 6 months. This financial assistance allowed me to expand my reach, conduct wellness presentations, and form stronger connections within the community.

Sponsorship can take various forms, from financial support to in-kind contributions. If you’re looking to support someone’s dream, I encourage you to explore options within your community. Collaborative efforts can amplify the impact we have on others.

Strengthening Family Relationships

Throughout this journey, my relationships with my direct family have been growing stronger. The shared experiences have allowed us to understand each other better and support one another through various challenges. It’s enriching to build a family dynamic where wellness and recovery are prioritized.

By focusing on building emotional connections, we can create an environment that supports both individual growth and family unity. Regular family discussions regarding mental health and wellness practices have been particularly beneficial for fostering open communication.

The Importance of Staying the Course

As I reflect on the past 1 year and 8 months since leaving my government job, the journey has been both challenging and rewarding. Staying the course with my work, wellness, recovery, and community has led me to unexpected achievements and profound personal growth.

If you’re considering making a leap into a new path, or pursuing a passion project, remember the importance of perseverance. Every challenge you face is an opportunity to learn and grow.

Embracing change, engaging in community work, nurturing relationships, and celebrating accomplishments have enriched my life. I hope my journey inspires others to pursue their own passions and forge paths toward resilience and empowerment. The power of community, relationships, and personal growth is limitless when we choose to lean into these experiences.

Let your story unfold, and may you find healing, strength, and authenticity in your own journey.