Hanggang sa Huling Hininga – Until The Last Breath
Here’s a clear, practical overview of Filipino end-of-life beliefs, attitudes about advance care planning, and common bereavement practices for hospice workers and volunteers. This document reflects the insights and suggestions from Ketchikan residents who represent various generations, genders, educational backgrounds, upbringings, religious beliefs, personal experiences, etc. The focus is on highlighting cultural norms rather than […]
Language Equity in Ketchikan: Bridging Gaps in Educational Access and Cultural Preservation
Ketchikan’s geographic isolation poses critical challenges in achieving language equity, a concept demanding that people of all linguistic backgrounds receive equitable access to educational resources, cultural validation, and institutional support. Recent interviews with students, educators, and community leaders reveal systemic failures and grassroots efforts to address these disparities. Language equity transcends mere translation services; it […]
FEAR AND SHAME OF TUBERCULOSIS
“I was worried to be discriminated against,” shares our anonymous community member, who recently completed treatment for TB. “Even if people find out now that I’m TB-free, I worry they will still be distant towards me because they might think I still have it.” In Ketchikan, Alaska, amidst the challenges of weather and isolation, a […]
Finding Cultural Connection: Young Filipinos Navigate Mental Health in Rural Alaska
For young adults in rural Alaska, maintaining a positive mental health outlook often means finding connections to peers, community, and culture. Fostering these social connections and cultivating relationships creates a sense of belonging and purpose, enhancing one’s overall health and well-being. Ketchikan Kapamilya has seen this happening firsthand through the various projects offered in the […]
A Mother’s Journey – Breast Cancer Survival & Importance of Preventative Care
In a world where health often takes a backseat to daily demands, Teresita Manalac Saez’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventative care. At 79 years old, this mother, grandmother, and now cancer survivor is a testament to the life-saving potential of regular check-ups and early detection. Teresita’s journey began with […]
