Chandell Boyd: Bridging Tradition and Modern Care for the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe
One of the biggest things that I've done for myself was to start to go back to my ways, to my anishinaabe ways.
How do you blend cultural heritage with modern addiction recovery? Chandell Boyd, an associate director for the Substance Use Disorders Department at the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, has some answers. In this episode of 'Let's Talk Addiction & Recovery', host Andrew Williams sits down with Boyd to explore her groundbreaking work in her community.
Boyd, a proud alumnus of the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies, uses her expertise to coordinate new patient services and bring meaningful change to her people. Boyd discusses a wide array of services offered by her department, highlighting the importance of cultural traditions like sweat lodges. These practices are not just symbolic; they play a vital role in the healing process.
She shares her personal journey back to her Anishinaabe roots and how this reconnection has fortified her mission. 'One of the biggest things that I've done for myself was to start to go back to my ways, to my Anishinaabe ways', Boyd reveals. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities that come with addressing addiction in native communities. Boyd's vision for a better future is not just a dream but a plan in action.
She speaks about how organizations like the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation can support these efforts, making a tangible difference in the lives of many. This episode is both enlightening and transformative, offering a deep dive into how traditional practices can coexist with modern treatment methods. If you're interested in how cultural heritage can play a role in recovery, or if you're looking for inspiration from someone who is making a real difference, this episode is a must-listen.