MACT Health June 2026 Newsletter
IN THIS ISSUE
Men’s Health Month
Cancer Survivor Month
PTSD Awareness Month
Provider Spotlight
Celebrating MACT
From MACT’s Kitchen
Holiday Announcements
Men’s Health Month
Men’s Health Month: Stronger Together
June is Men's Health Month, a critical reminder that prioritizing wellness is not a sign of weakness, but a foundation of strength. Statistically, men are significantly less likely to visit a healthcare provider for preventative care, often choosing to tough it out and waiting until a minor issue becomes a major health crisis. It is time to change that narrative.
Taking control of your health means looking at the big picture and understanding that comprehensive care goes beyond the basics. Whether it is getting a prostate screening, monitoring your blood pressure, or staying current with your dental and optometry appointments, taking action today protects your tomorrow.
Actionable Steps for Comprehensive Wellness
To actively participate in Men's Health Month, consider focusing on these key areas of preventative care:
Schedule a Routine Physical: Do not wait for symptoms to appear. Annual medical checkups establish a baseline for your health and can catch high blood pressure, cholesterol imbalances, and early signs of diabetes before they escalate.
Prioritize Preventative Screenings: Depending on your age and family history, specific screenings such as prostate exams and colonoscopies are essential, life-saving tools for early detection.
Maintain Full-Body Health: True wellness encompasses your entire body. Regular dental exams and optometry checkups are vital, as they often reveal the very first indicators of systemic health issues like hypertension or cardiovascular disease.
Focus on Mental Well-being: Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression take a severe physical toll on the body. Seeking support and speaking openly about mental health is a crucial component of a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Your health is your greatest asset. Book your preventative appointments this June, encourage the men in your life to do the same, and commit to a proactive approach to your future.
Honoring Resilience During Cancer Survivor Month
June is National Cancer Survivor Month, a dedicated time to honor the incredible resilience of those who have faced a cancer diagnosis. It is a moment to recognize the profound courage it takes to navigate the complexities of treatment and the steadfast strength required to embrace life as a survivor.
Celebrating Your Milestones
We celebrate the significant milestones you have achieved along this journey. Whether you are newly in remission or have been free from cancer for decades, your endurance serves as a powerful inspiration to our entire community. Every step forward is a victory worth acknowledging, and your story brings hope to those currently fighting their own battles.
Supporting the Whole Journey
Survivorship is an ongoing process of reclaiming and maintaining your overall well-being. Comprehensive healthcare plays a vital role in this new chapter of life, ensuring that every aspect of your recovery is supported.
Prioritizing Ongoing Health: Healing extends well beyond the final treatment. Regular medical checkups are essential to monitor your recovery and protect your immune system.
Maintaining Systemic Wellness: Cancer therapies can impact various aspects of the body. Routine dental and optometry visits are critical to ensure your entire system is supported as it heals and thrives.
Fostering Emotional Strength: The emotional weight of a diagnosis does not simply vanish once treatment ends. Prioritizing mental wellness and finding a supportive community are critical components of thriving in survivorship.
To all the survivors, we stand with you in solidarity and celebration. Your strength lights the way for others, and we are deeply committed to supporting your continued health and wellness every step of the way.
Breaking the Stigma: Understanding PTSD Awareness Month
June is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month, a crucial time to elevate the conversation around trauma and emphasize that its impact is as unique as the individual experiencing it. Living with the invisible weight of past trauma can often feel isolating, but acknowledging the struggle is a powerful first step toward reclaiming your peace of mind.
Healing is Not Linear
Recovery from trauma is rarely a straight path. It is a deeply personal journey characterized by forward progress, occasional setbacks, and profound growth. There is no set timeline for recovery, and it is perfectly normal to have days that feel more difficult than others. What matters most is knowing that there is no shame in asking for help when the burden becomes too heavy to carry alone.
Compassionate Support for Your Journey
Comprehensive wellness requires treating the mind with the exact same care and urgency as the body. Our dedicated behavioral health team understands the complexities of PTSD and is here to provide the steady, professional support you deserve. We focus on:
Tailored Therapeutic Approaches: We recognize that every experience with trauma is different, and we meet you exactly where you are in your recovery with individualized care plans.
A Safe, Confidential Environment: Rebuilding trust is a critical component of healing. Our providers offer a judgment-free space designed for you to process your experiences securely.
Integrated Care: We view your mental well-being as a core component of your overall health, ensuring that your behavioral health support works seamlessly alongside your other medical care.
You do not have to navigate the complexities of past trauma by yourself. If you are struggling, please reach out to connect with our behavioral health professionals today. Healing is possible, and our team is ready to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Community Breast Cancer Awareness Event
Early detection, education, and community support are vital components in the fight against breast cancer. To help promote wellness and awareness across our region, Jackson MACT Medical is proud to host a special Breast Cancer Awareness Event this June.
We invite everyone in the community to join us for an afternoon dedicated to health, learning, and connection. Whether you want to learn more about preventative care, are supporting a loved one, or simply want to gather with your neighbors, all are welcome to attend.
Reserve Your Spot Today To ensure a comfortable and engaging experience for all of our attendees, spaces for this event are strictly limited. We encourage you to secure your spot as soon as possible. We look forward to sharing this meaningful afternoon with you and continuing our commitment to the health and wellness of our community.
Location & Time
MACT Jackson - Medical 4-5PM
12140 New York Ranch, Jackson, CA 95642
Limited Availability
We have a very limited number of spaces, be sure to register today! Click here or call 209.754.6262 ext. 5132
Refreshments
Complimentary food + drinks will be provided for all guests. We will also be holding a prize raffle!
❋ A Supportive Space
This gathering is designed to be a supportive environment where community members can come together, share resources, and learn more about the healthcare services available at our clinic.
New Leadership at MACT Health Focuses on Your Care
If you rely on MACT Health Board Inc. for your medical needs, you are about to see a deliberate shift in how your healthcare is managed. The organization has announced a pivotal leadership transition, appointing Mariela B. Contreras, MBA, as the new Executive Director. If you are familiar with the clinic's administration, you may already know her from her previous role as Finance Director and Deputy Executive Director.
What does this transition mean for you as a patient? As your community grows, MACT recognizes that your health needs are evolving. Under the guidance of Contreras, the organization is embarking on ambitious plans to comprehensively overhaul and optimize your experience from the moment you walk through the doors. While you might not see these comprehensive changes overnight, the planning stages to enhance the facilities you visit are already actively underway.
"Our primary focus is the population we serve, and this transition represents a needed change in our strategic direction," Contreras stated. For you, this means a renewed commitment to ensuring every interaction you have with the clinic is seamless, supportive, and optimized for your personal health. The organization has set ambitious goals to elevate standards and redefine what quality care looks like in your community.
Moving forward, MACT Health Board Inc. is dedicated to becoming your definitive benchmark for patient healthcare in the Sierra Nevada. Their primary mission remains focused on improving the health status of the American Indian and Alaskan Native populations through a system designed to preserve traditional well-being and cultural sensitivity. However, they are also deeply committed to providing exceptional medical services to you and everyone in the broader communities across Mariposa, Amador, Alpine, Calaveras, and Tuolumne counties.
By leveraging her financial acumen and strategic foresight, Contreras and the fully aligned Board of Directors are uniquely equipped to invest in sustainable, patient-centered improvements. In this new chapter for MACT Health, the ultimate goal is clear: ensuring you have access to highly qualified medical professionals in an environment that prioritizes your well-being.
Provider Spotlight: Dr. Rachna Narula - MACT Optometry Sonora
Good eyesight is a vital part of everyday health.
Bringing a fresh perspective and a deep commitment to patient care, Dr. Rachna Narula is officially bringing her expertise to Sonora.
Dr. Narula brings a strong educational foundation to her practice. She earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her Doctor of Optometry from the Illinois College of Optometry. Her approach to optometry goes far beyond basic exams and prescriptions. She is deeply passionate about helping patients maintain lifelong healthy vision, placing a special focus on educating individuals about proper eye care and preventative strategies.
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Narula values a balanced lifestyle. She enjoys reading, walking, and spending quality time with her family. She is excited to put down professional roots in Sonora and looks forward to serving the community.
Take a proactive step toward protecting your eyesight. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Narula at Sonora MACT Optometry today by calling 209.532.4123.
Provider Spotlight: Dr. Natalie Schelbert - MACT Chiropractic Valley Springs
Dr. Natalie Schelbert had her first chiropractic experience at the age of 14 following a sports injury. From that moment on, she knew she wanted to pursue a career in chiropractic care. She graduated from Life Chiropractic College West in 2019. During her time at Life West, she participated in two mission trips to Fiji, where she provided care to diverse communities. These experiences deepened her appreciation for community service and helped shape her career. Dr. Natalie moved to Valley Springs with her family two years ago after serving her community in the Bay Area. She is excited for the opportunity to continue serving others through MACT Health.
Book your appointment with Dr. Schelbert at Valley Springs MACT Chiropractic by calling 209.755.1470
Provider Spotlight: FNP Amy Rogers - MACT Women’s Health Sonora
Amy Rogers joined the MACT team in February of 2026. Amy is passionate about women's wellness and is dedicated to nurturing a woman’s physical, emotional, and spiritual health. She believes that when a woman is healthy and strong, she gains the confidence, energy, and balance needed to be fully present in her home, work, and community. Amy attended Brigham Young University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1997. In 2014, Amy earned her Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from California State University, Fresno. Since then, she has practiced family medicine with an emphasis in Woman’s Health. Outside of her professional life, Amy enjoys running, weightlifting, listening to medical podcasts, reading, and hiking.
Amy Rogers is now accepting new patients at MACT Health’s Sonora Women’s Health clinic. Please call MACT Health at 209.288.6502 to schedule an appointment with Amy.
Provider Spotlight: Jenn Yendes - Associate Clinical Social Worker MACT Behavioral Health Sonora
Jenn joined the MACT Team in February 2026. Jenn Yendes has been a resident of Tuolumne County for 11 years, having relocated her family here in 2015. Jenn earned her Bachelor Degree from California State University, East Bay, majoring in Sociology and Criminal Justice, in 2014.
She spent time interning with the Alameda County Juvenile Probation Department, then working with Seneca Family of Agencies as a Classroom Counselor in middle school classrooms supporting older youth who struggled with behavioral challenges. In 2015 Jenn accepted a position as a Social Worker with Tuolumne County Social Services, where she spent the last 10 years working with children and families in the community, during which time she gained knowledge of the workings of various local government systems and resources available in the county.
During her employment with Tuolumne County, Jenn earned her Master’s in Social Work at Stanislaus State University, graduating with distinction in 2020. Jenn believes that lived experience is life’s greatest teacher and works from a place of curiosity, emphasizing self-reflection, personal accountability, empowerment, and community connection to support youth and adults in addressing a variety of biopsychosocial needs.
Jenn is currently acquiring her hours toward her licensure as a LCSW, which she hopes to obtain before the end of 2027. When not at work, Jenn is first and foremost a mother to two adult children and a very lively elementary aged girl. In her free time, Jenn can be found reading a good book, dancing at a rock concert, or exploring the world from a cruise ship. Jenn is so excited to join the MACT team and serve the community she loves in a new way.
Jenn Yendes is now accepting new patients at MACT Health’s Sonora Behavioral Health clinic. Please call MACT Health at 209.588.4640 to schedule an appointment with Jenn.
Celebrating MACT Health’s Community Health Workers
with Krista Sutton, Patient Care Coordinator Program Manager
MACT Health has expanded our skills to better serve our community. MACT Health’s Patient Care Coordinators and members of our Native American Services Team recently earned their certification as Community Health Workers. They chose to use an online platform through Partners in Care Foundation to earn their Community Health Worker’s certification. It was about an eight week long cohort and their vision was “A world where every person has equitable access to affordable high-quality health and social care”.
MACT Health’s Community Health Workers (CHW) serve as a bridge between community members and health or social determinants. They provide education, support, and resource navigation to help individuals improve their health and overall well-being. CHW’s build trusting relationships with patients, connect them to medical, behavioral health, housing, transportation and other community resources, while helping reduce barriers to care.
Additionally, Community Health Workers support individuals and families by connecting them with healthcare, promoting health education, advocating for patient needs and helping coordinate services to improve health outcomes and quality of life.
Our Community Health Workers are excited to serve our community and offer these services throughout all MACT Medical clinics. Please reach out to your Native American Services Specialist or any MACT Medical clinic to learn more about these services.
MACT anniversary 15 years Julianne Grimes - Elder Care Coordinator
Congratulations on 15 years of dedicated service as MACT’s Native American Services Elder Care Coordinator. Your compassion, commitment, and unwavering support for our Native Elders have made a lasting difference in countless lives. Thank you for the care, respect, and strength you bring to MACT Health every day. Your dedication is truly appreciated and celebrated.
FROM MACT'S KITCHEN
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FROM MACT'S KITCHEN 〰️
Juniper-Braised Bison with Roasted Roots
Inspired by contemporary Indigenous cuisine such as that of Sean Sherman .Serves: 4
Bison
Ingredients
2–3 lb bison chuck or shoulder roast
1 tbsp crushed juniper berries
1 tsp ground sumac (optional)
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sunflower oil
1 onion, sliced
2 cups rich bone broth or water
Fresh sage sprigs
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
Rub bison with juniper, sumac, and salt.
Heat oil in a Dutch oven; sear roast on all sides until browned.
Add onion and cook briefly.
Pour in broth and add sage.
Cover and braise in oven 2½–3 hours until fork-tender.
Rest 10 minutes before slicing. Spoon juices over top.
Roasted Root Vegetables
Ingredients
2 carrots, chopped
2 parsnips, chopped
2 turnips, cubed
1 tbsp sunflower oil
Salt to taste
Optional: sprinkle of crushed juniper
Instructions
Toss vegetables with oil and salt.
Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30–40 minutes until caramelized.
Serve alongside sliced bison.
Upcoming Events & Holidays
Breast Cancer Awareness Small Group Session June 24th at Jackson Medical
This event will start at 4:00 PM. Please call Jackson MACT Medical at 209.257.2400 to reserve your space.
Native Kids Camp, June 29–July 3, 2026
MACT Health Board, Inc. is thrilled to announce an unforgettable experience for our Native youth ages 8-15 years old. Our annual Native Kids Camp is back and promises to be our best yet! We have curated a week of adventure, learning, and cultural connection designed to engage and inspire young minds. This year’s camp will be hosted at the spectacular Asilomar Conference Grounds in Pacific Grove, California.
Save the Date: Sonora Mother Lode Fair - July 2-5, 2026
Get ready for the Sonora Mother Lode Fair! While often associated with June, check the local dates for early July 2026 to celebrate "Heritage, Honor, and Hometown Fun."