Dr. Arne Vainio

Dr. Arne Vainio is known for many things. The fact that he is one of many great doctors at our clinics, his segments on the Native Report, his Mad Dr. Science projects, and his writings from Indianz.com and News from Indian Country are just a few ways he’s known (in my family he’s most know for his car that runs on grease), but Dr. Vainio never seeks out recognition.

That’s why on Sept. 9, it was very fitting that Dr. Vainio was one of four honored with the Virginia McKnight Binger Unsung Hero Award. He was selected by The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits and The McKnight Foundation for his "life-changing" work in Native communities.

It wasn’t much more than a week later on Sept. 19 that the Min No Aya Win Clinic was hosting Real Men Wear Pink campaign silent auction to help raise money and awareness for breast cancer.

Dr. Vainio is the local ambassador for the American Cancer Society. The auction was very successful with a variety of items and gift baskets donated. The auction raised $3500.

I spoke with Chris Davis, Medical Clinic Coordinator and Family Nurse Practitioner at MNAW, about the event and much like Dr. Vainio, just wanted to help for a great cause.

“We were there to help support education and raise awareness for people locally with help and support. American Indians have higher rates of breast cancer diagnosis. This particular event was just to raise awareness and raise some money for a good cause.”

Dr. Vainio and medical staff team at MNAW put on the silent auction and it certainly was a team effort. They would like to say thank you from the team to everyone for their generosity in the bids and the donations of the items auctioned.