Medicine Woman in the traditional Navajo sense, but the desire to work in medicine was too strong for her to ignore. Rather than forget about pursuing a vocation in healthcare, Nona enrolled in the Pharmacy Technician program at Pima Medical Institute, 2201 San Pedro NE, Building 3, Suite 100 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Now the former honor student is filling prescriptions, answering patient’s questions in both the English and Navajo language, and working as a registered and certified Pharmacy Technician at Fort Defiance Indian Hospital in Fort Defiance, Arizona.

Klagetoh resident. Her commute from the small community outside of Ganado, Arizona to Fort Defiance is an hour each way. However, she said she is happy to have meaningful work, gain experience in her field, and help others. In addition to her training at Pima Medical Institute, the Pharmacy Technician earned a Bachelor of Science degree and hopes to travel to different hospitals and clinics throughout the reservation as a drug representative one day.

But now I’m glad I did go back, even though I have student loans to repay. I would encourage other Navajos to do the same. Even if it takes a few years to do it, you’re never too old to go to school.” Nona’s advice to her fellow Navajos is twofold. “Remember, success begins with failure. If you fail, wipe the dust off your shoulder, try again and don’t give up until you get what you wanted.”Her second suggestion comes from the class motto of the 1993 class of Ganado High School. Know from where you come and there are no limits to where you can go.