I had the honor of traveling with and spending time alongside Indigenous health legends, Dr. Raymond Reid (Diné) and Dr. Mathuram Santosham, two individuals whose invaluable contributions have strengthened infant health, saved hundreds of Native babies (and beyond), and helped build the foundation for immunization and research innovation for the Navajo Nation.
Dr. Reid worked in the early development of the Southwestern Center for Indigenous Health research offices to raise awareness about the need for tribal participation in vaccine development and safety. He led the effort to establish trust among researchers, providers, and families who had historically complex relationships with healthcare services. I learned many lessons and came to recognize what a privilege it was to listen to their stories and see the pride in their eyes.
Recently in Shiprock, New Mexico, the Center for Indigenous Health came together to celebrate Dr. Reid’s recent Native American Child Health Advocacy Award from The American Pediatrics Academy, which recognizes “individuals who have made major contributions to promoting Native American child health” and “champions Native American child health promotions and exemplifies a lifelong commitment, to Native American children and their communities.”
Dr. Reid, who is always in good company, is one of several Center for Indigenous Health leaders who have received the award including Dr. Santosham (2015) and Dr. Allison Barlow (2019). Being in the presence of elders hammers home some of the most fundamental and essential truths about life. Please take care of yours.
Reminder to my generation…our heroes are getting older, so we are up next!