Dear UIHS Family and Friends,

As winter settles in along the north coast and we move toward the end of another year, I find myself reflecting on the strength, resilience, and generosity of the people who make up this beautiful community. The winter season has a way of inviting us to pause, breathe, and take stock of what matters most: our health, our families, our relationships, and the ties that hold our village together.  Remember that our elders tell us this is a time of being quiet and being grateful.  We have so much to be grateful for.

This past year has brought many moments worth celebrating across our UIHS sites. Together, we’ve continued expanding services, improving access to care, strengthening cultural programs, and investing in new spaces that support wellness for all ages. Whether it’s the opening of new facilities, the growth of community gardens, or the events and gatherings where we share food, stories, and laughter – each of these moments reflects the spirit of who we are as Native people and as a community rooted in connection.

One of the significant milestones this year has been our transition into the EPIC electronic health record system. While that may sound like a behind-the-scenes change, it brings real benefits to you – our clients, friends, and relatives – by making it easier to schedule visits, access health information, and stay connected with your care teams. This move will improve coordination, safety, and efficiency across UIHS for years to come, and we are excited to bring this advancement to our community.

I’m also grateful for the many ways you’ve continued to show up – for your health and for each other. From participating in wellness gatherings and youth programs, to supporting the elders of our communities, to engaging in health education events. Your involvement keeps our culture strong and ensures our services continue to reflect community needs. These are the moments that remind us that wellness is not just about appointments – it’s about relationships, belonging, and taking care of one another across generations.

As winter moves forward, I encourage everyone to take good care of you and your family. The season can bring colder weather, shorter days, and busier schedules, so remember to stay warm, stay hydrated, and check in with loved ones. Take advantage of the services available across UIHS – from primary care and behavioral health to cultural programs, diabetes prevention, dental, vision, and more. We are here for you, and our doors are always open.

Looking into 2026, we are excited to continue strengthening our services and expanding opportunities for wellness. Expanded facilities, updated equipment, community trainings, and more wonderful events will help us stay connected and serve you even better. Most importantly, we will keep listening – to your experiences, your hopes, and your feedback – so UIHS continues to grow in ways guided by our shared community knowledge.

Thank you for trusting us with your care. Thank you for supporting one another, for participating in our programs, for showing up at events, and for sharing our culture, humor, and wisdom.  We are honored to walk alongside you.

Wishing you a peaceful winter season and a strong, healthy start to the new year.

Elizabeth Lara-O’Rourke