The power of storytelling and community collaboration took center stage at Health Quality BC's annual Quality Forum, where the First Nation Health Authority's (FNHA) Diabetes Curriculum Project was selected as a storyboard winner. The two-day event, which highlights efforts to improve health systems across BC, saw over 135 submissions, with FNHA's project standing out for its commitment to culturally safe diabetes education.
At the heart of the project are the voices and experiences of First Nations people living with diabetes. Over the past two years, FNHA's project team listened to the personal stories of community members, shaping a curriculum that prioritizes wholistic care, emotional and spiritual well-being, and connection to land and culture; elements that are missing from Westernized diabetes resources and services.
The curriculum, says Cyril Morris, one of the project advisors from Songhees Nation in Leǩʷəŋən territory, was created in direct response to community requests for diabetes education that truly reflects First Nations culture, values, and teachings.
“If there's a way to describe it, it would be in Leǩʷəŋən," says Cyril, referring to the language spoken by his people. “There's a there's a term called eyʔ stelŋəxʷ, which means 'good medicine.' It's the connections, the healing, the courage that somebody has. That's part of eyʔ stelŋəxʷ, the good medicine somebody brings, their gifts, and being able to connect with others."
Healing through connection
Cyril, who lives with diabetes, says he was happy to meet other people on their diabetes journey, to listen to their stories and reflect on their perspectives.
“There is not a lot of work moving forward with diabetes," says Cyril. “It was great to learn where people have been, where they are now and where they want to go in terms of their diabetes journey. It's all about wellness and connection. It reinforces for me that I'm where I am supposed to be on my journey in wellness. It's not just fitness. It's about being on the land, it's about being on the water, in the canoe, and self-care."
Diabetes disproportionately impacts First Nations people and communities due to the ongoing impacts of colonialism. While diabetes rates among First Nations people in BC are significantly higher (up to 17.2%) compared to the other residents (5%), access to culturally safe education and support remains a challenge. The Diabetes Curriculum Project seeks to change that by centering First Nations knowledge and lived experiences in diabetes care.
Collaboration key to success
Currently in its pilot phase, the project is being implemented in 22 communities, with valuable feedback being gathered through surveys and discussions. The pilot is set to conclude in early summer, with plans for full rollout in the fall for any interested communities.
Tessie Harris, the diabetes practice advisor for FNHA and co-lead on the project, says collaboration has been key to the project's success.
“The efforts of the FNHA Team and the guidance of the Diabetes Advisory Circle have ensured that the curriculum remains rooted in community voices and cultural safety," says Tessie, reflecting on the award. “This isn't just about creating a resource—it's about an ongoing dialogue to truly support and uplift First Nations people living with diabetes to live their best life."
If you are interested in learning more about the Diabetes Curriculum Project, connect with your community health team who can reach out to FNHA to get updates on the rollout.
To learn more about diabetes and the resources available, please visit the webpage here.
