In this episode of CNTV News, Brad Clonch and Quin Tran continue their reporting on the COVID-19 pandemic. They begin with an interview with Kinsha Walker, Chickasaw citizen and COVID-19 survivor who knows firsthand how dangerous the virus can be. After being sick for over two weeks, the Baton Rouge nurse is now back on the front lines in New York City, caring for patients who are also suffering from COVID-19. During her interview with Quin, she describes her experience and why she felt compelled to leave her home and family to assist in the fight against the pandemic. "Service matters. Wherever the need is, I'll go. This virus affected every system in my body from head to toe. So, it requires every ounce of energy you have to fight it," says Kinsha. "And a lot of it is just the determination to do so, but you have to have the willingness and the encouragement and there's nothing more helpful to my patients to tell them I have been where you are. I know how you feel. We have to get through this." Kinsha also tells Quin that being is a nurse is a calling and after she fell ill and recovered, she felt compelled to help other COVID patients.

We can do our part to prevent the spread of the virus. Health officials urge people to wear cloth face coverings when out in public, making sure the mask properly covers the nose and mouth. Some people are asymptomatic, meaning they show no symptoms and might expose others to the illness. The face coverings help prevent the spread, along with social distancing measures. Doctors remind us that elders and those with underlying health conditions are among the most at risk. Dr. Charles Grim of the Chickasaw Nation Department of Health says that we won't be able to loosen the preventive measures for some time and that the battle with COVID-19 will continue. "I feel pretty confident that we're doing a really good job within the Chickasaw Nation," he says.

More COVID-19 testing is underway. The Chickasaw Nation is adding a fourth test site in Tishomingo, in addition to test sites set up in Ardmore, Ada and Purcell. The testing centers are open to the public at large. CNTV News connected virtually with the Chickasaw Nation's pathologist, Dr. Kevin Maddox, to learn about COVID-19 testing. Dr. Maddox demonstrates how the test procedure is performed using the Abbott rapid test as well as plans to provide antibody testing in the near future. Look for more updates on antibody tests in the coming weeks.

Community efforts are also underway to assist families. In partnership with the Chickasaw Nation, Walmart donated more than 30,000 pounds of produce. Using drive-through delivery, the tribe's Nutrition Services helped distribute the food to Chickasaw citizens and CDIB card holders at the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center in Ada and the Chickasaw Nation Tishomingo campus. A total of 2,200 vehicles utilized the drive-through program.

If you have questions about COVID-19, please call the Chickasaw Nation COVID-19 hotline at (580) 272-1312.