Mary Lu Dolce, a Chickasaw travel nurse, recently achieved an impressive second-place finish in the Miss Health and Fitness 2023 competition, garnering significant attention. Known for her unwavering dedication to healthy living, fitness, and animal welfare, Dolce has become an emblem of wellness and determination. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including a battle with lupus and work-related injuries, Dolce has steadfastly maintained an active and healthy lifestyle.
Hailing from the Chickasaw Nation, Dolce has long been an advocate for wholesome living. Her daily regimen includes weightlifting, running, and regular cardio exercises, all accompanied by a nutritious diet. She firmly asserts that healthy eating should be a way of life, rather than adhering to restrictive diets focused solely on weight loss.
Understanding the importance of maintaining both mental and physical fitness, Dolce has incorporated her love for horses into her fitness routine. She trains and rides horses, particularly when preparing for barrel racing, an activity she is deeply passionate about. This enthusiasm ultimately led her to participate in the Miss Health and Fitness 2023 competition.
Her involvement in the competition provided an opportunity to underscore the significance of sustaining a healthy lifestyle. While other participants focused primarily on physical appearance, Dolce utilized the platform to inspire others by sharing her journey of surmounting life’s challenges through her commitment to health and fitness. As a nurse, Dolce is fervently dedicated to setting an example for others and advocating for the long-term benefits of physical well-being.
Despite being considered an underdog at the onset of the competition, Dolce managed to secure a prominent position, capturing the attention and support of many. She attributes her success to her Chickasaw upbringing, which instilled in her an appreciation for life, wholesome food, and the natural world. Even now, residing in New York, her Chickasaw heritage continues to shape her perspective on life.
Following her recognition in the Miss Health and Fitness competition, Dolce expressed her pride and elation at Dr. Snehi Kapur’s victory. She lauded Dr. Kapur as a deserving and inspiring winner, commending her efforts to advocate for healthier living. Throughout the competition, Dolce made meaningful strides in championing the interests of First American people and the importance of embracing a lifestyle rooted in health and fitness principles that honour the earth.
Reflecting on her journey, Dolce acknowledged the profound influence of her Chickasaw culture on her life. She passionately spoke about her deep connection to animals and nature, and how she imparts these values to students through horseback riding lessons.
Despite choosing to reside outside Oklahoma, Dolce expressed her intention to return for the 2024 rodeo series, demonstrating her continued allegiance to her Chickasaw heritage. Her horse, aptly named “Chickasaw Rising,” serves as a poignant reminder of her ancestral roots and the resilience that defines her spirit.
While the Miss Health and Fitness competition ultimately placed her in the shadow of the winner, Dolce remained content with her achievement. She succeeded in her aim of inspiring others and raising awareness about embracing a healthy lifestyle shaped by her First American heritage.
The disparity in healthcare for Native populations is substantial. Access to services is often challenging, and healthcare providers do not always comprehend the unique cultural aspects of healthcare requirements for First American individuals. The Native News Health Desk, supported by the National Institute for Health Care Management Foundation and the American Dental Association, is earnestly dedicated to addressing these issues affecting First American communities nationwide.
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