Diane Hawk Surgery Project


Diane Hawk Surgery Project Esevonene'ehne'e Buffalo Walking Woman	Read Update: 100 Pounds Later!
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MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!
This site is now a historical record of Diane Hawk's extraordinary journey toward health. As you read the pages be aware that Diane Hawk is now alive, healthy, and living a life of purpose and productivity. Follow the steps of her journey . . .

Diane Hawk Featured on TV News
Brings Attention to Diabetes Problem
News Release: May 10, 2003
Published in the The Kingfisher Times and Free Press

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Correspondent Cherokee Ballard and Diane Hawk prepare for taping. Photo Courtesy Cheyenne and Arapaho SCANN

Diane Hawk of Kingfisher was featured on KOCO TV News on Thursday 4/30/03 making an appeal for assistance as she raises the funds for hospitalization following gastric bypass surgery. Hawk hopes the surgery, a dramatic procedure for the morbidly obese, will cure her of diabetes, congestive heart failure, and joint disintegration. Hawk's doctors agree that the surgery is a medical necessity, but neither her insurance nor Indian Health will fund this type of surgery. $150 million in funds earmarked for Diabetes Wellness for Native Americans have been approved by Congress, but so far none are directed toward the gastric bypass. Her doctors hope this will change when public awareness is raised through Hawk's efforts. "I'm ready to be a spokesperson for this cause, because it will give my life back, and I want others to benefit, too." A web site with information about Hawk's case has been established at buffalowalkingwoman.com, with links to more information about gastric bypass surgery and diabetes. The Hawk Family will sponsor a Benefit Dance at the Women's Building of the Kingfisher Fairgrounds on May 11, with Gourd Dancing at 3:00, a free supper at 5:30, and a powwow after supper. "Everyone is welcome to join us for supper, and you might win a nice prize," says Hawk, whose husband is raffling off a registered Appaloosa horse. "It's a grulla, and we have some other nice things donated - including hand made items like a cradleboard." KOCO's Cherokee Ballard will be present at the dance as part of an ongoing documentary. To buy tickets for the raffle or donate to the surgery fund, please contact the Diane Hawk Surgery Fund.