Because Native Americans statistically are at greater risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, early detection and prevention is key. Chickasaw citizen Mark Francis, for example, was diagnosed as pre-diabetic and says it was a wake-up call for him to focus more on physical fitness, as his father lost a limb to the disease. Mark is working out and eating healthier thanks to the support of the free Chickasaw Nation's Diabetes Prevention Program. And the Chickasaw Nation is accepting nominations for its esteemed Hall of Fame now through December 8; nominees must be a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation, but don't have to live in Oklahoma. Visit HOF.Chickasaw.net for more info. The Nation also recently hosted two events for Chickasaw youth: a Kids' Day at the University of Oklahoma in Norman and the annual Chikasha Osto Pumpkin Festival in Davis. And don't forget about upcoming fall and winter activities at the Chickasaw Cultural Center! Check out their event page for more details.