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Journey to Browning: Embracing the Spirit and Culture of the Blackfeet Nation

Author: Dr. Becky Uranga


In 2009, my husband and I were third-year residents living in New Hampshire. We had a
month to do an elective rotation, and I had ideas of going to Africa or Central America.
However, my husband suggested Indian Health Services. So off we went to Browning,
Montana – east of Glacier Park – the home of the Blackfoot Nation. Even though I am
from Montana and was born 2.5 hours away, I had not spent much time here or known
much about the Blackfeet people.


We had an amazing month. It was September, and the weather was prime for hiking and
being outside. What grabbed me was the people of this small but strong community.
The hospital we worked in was lovely, and the laughter present was contagious –
despite the isolation and the complexities of a reservation. Often, medical
professionals, especially specialists, are only there for a short time and then leave. At
one point, a patient bluntly asked how long I planned to stay and assumed I would never
return.


That question stuck with me and inspired me. I have now been back eight times – often
only for 1-2 weeks as work and family life allow. Each time I am there, I am reminded of
the spiritual grounding of the Blackfeet people, the beautiful surroundings, and the
appreciation of the continued gift of medical knowledge and the ability to share and, in
return, learn about a rich culture.