Angie Lowery, a resident of Robeson County, North Carolina, has transformed her lifestyle to improve her health and be present for her grandchildren. Surrounded by soybean fields and antique collectibles, Lowery has cultivated a backyard garden filled with vegetables like squash, onions, and potatoes. As a member of the Lumbee Tribe, she faced obesity and diabetes, requiring daily insulin. Motivated by the birth of her grandchild in 2024, she changed her diet, increased physical activity, and lost 120 pounds, eventually eliminating the need for insulin. The Lumbee Tribe recently gained federal recognition, allowing access to Indian Health Service resources, which could enhance healthcare for the community. This story highlights the importance of personal health choices and the impact of federal support on tribal communities.
QUESTION: How might federal recognition and access to better healthcare services influence the future health and well-being of the Lumbee Tribe?
The Lumbee Tribe of N.C. wants better healthcare, but plans to fund it are in limbo
