In recognition of Rare Disease Day on February 29, 2024, Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., joined by First Lady January Hoskin, signed an executive order establishing the Cherokee Nation Rare Disease Initiative Task Force.  

Rare diseases are a major concern in the United States, with an estimated 1 in 10 Americans being affected by them, including Cherokee citizens. These conditions are classified as any disease that impacts fewer than 200,000 individuals in the U.S., and there are presently over 7,000 known rare diseases.  

The seven-member task force includes First Lady January Hoskin, Executive Medical Director Dr. Beth Harp, Deputy Executive Director Brian Hail, Senior Director of Nursing Dr. Rebecca Shepherd, Director of Ambulatory Care Nursing Laura Lundberg, Nurse Contrel Mayes and W.W. Hastings Hospital Medical Director Dr. Roy Ward.