06/03/2026
KMC Launches New Wellness Program
Empowering Health Through Lifestyle Change
By Bonny Abarr, KMC PR Specialist
Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity continue to impact families throughout the Hoopa Valley and surrounding communities. To help address these challenges and empower individuals to take control of their health, K’ima:w Medical Center (KMC) is launching a new Lifestyle Medicine course beginning Wednesday, June 3.
The program is designed to help participants reduce their risk of chronic disease while improving symptoms for those already living with ongoing health conditions. While reducing diabetes rates in the Valley is a primary goal, the course is intended to benefit anyone interested in improving their overall health and wellness.
“The goal of our Wellness Program is to empower our community to build healthier lifestyles through practical nutrition education, physical activity, and sustainable behavior change,” said KMC Registered Dietitian Jennifer Jackson.
Jackson is one of three providers who collaborated to develop the program specifically for local patients. Her expertise in nutrition and healthy eating habits will provide participants with practical tools they can incorporate into their daily lives.
Joining Jackson are Dr. Valerie Pasnau, DNP, RN, and Dr. Jill Buller, MD. Together, the team brings a wide range of experience and knowledge to the program. Buller is board certified in obesity medicine, an area of growing concern in many Tribal communities, while Pasnau has long advocated for preventative care and wellness education.
Whether someone hopes to lose weight, maintain a healthy lifestyle, begin exercising, or better manage an existing health condition, the course offers support, education, and encouragement for people at every stage of their wellness journey.
“This program is meant for anyone with health goals,” Buller said. “If you're looking to make some big changes or just want to see if you can learn something new to add to your already healthy lifestyle, this program is for you.”
Pasnau emphasized that the program extends far beyond diabetes education.
“I love the name ‘Lifestyle’ instead of saying ‘diabetes class,’” Pasnau said. “Our new program is so much more. We will learn nutrition, how to prepare healthy meals on a budget, how to start an exercise program, and receive support and advice from our behavioral health team on changing habits.”
By focusing on sustainable lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes, KMC hopes participants will gain the knowledge and confidence needed to make lasting improvements to their health and well-being.
Join us tonight at 5:30 at the Firehall!
