At Memorial Medical Center, we are proud to celebrate the rich histories, living traditions, and enduring contributions of Native people during Native American Heritage Month. Today, we honor one of our own, Shannon Toledo, a valued member of our Health Information Management team whose journey, culture, and spirit bring warmth and meaning to our MMC community.

Shannon began her MMC career in 2018 in our Dietary Department as a Diet Operator. In 2021, she joined the Health Information Management team as a Release of Information Technician, where she continues to serve patients and families with care, respect, and dedication.

Shannon introduces herself with grace and intention of her people: “Ya’ateeh (Hello), my name is Shannon Toledo. I am from the Navajo (Diné) Tribe. I am of the Black Streak Wood People Clan. I am born for the Red Running Into The Water Clan. My maternal grandfathers are of the Bitter Water Clan. My paternal grandfathers are of the Mud Clan. This is how I introduce myself as a Diné woman.”

Her heritage is a guiding force in her life, rooted in Hózhó, the Navajo philosophy of balance, harmony, and beauty in all things. Shannon shares that being Native American has taught her resilience, generosity, and the importance of staying grounded physically, spiritually, and within community. Whether it is traditional teachings, stories, or beloved foods (especially her well-loved frybread), she carries her culture with pride and joy.

One of her favorite traditions is the Baby’s First Laugh Ceremony, a celebration honoring a newborn’s first expression of joy. It is a moment when family and community gather, share food, and exchange small gifts that symbolize generosity and the beginning of a child’s life in the physical world. Shannon says that ceremonies like this represent the heart of Navajo values: connection, gratitude, and togetherness.

“My heritage has played an important role in who I am today,” she says. “I care deeply about family and am blessed to have so many people to look up to. I try to maintain a positive attitude daily and not dwell on the negative; there is beauty in everything we do.”

Shannon also carries deep pride in the legacy of the Navajo Code Talkers, whose unbreakable code, based on the Navajo language, helped secure U.S. victory during World War II. Their courage and brilliance continue to inspire her, and their legacy reminds us of the powerful impact Indigenous knowledge has had on our world.

Most of all, Shannon wants people to know this: “Native Americans are still here. Our culture, history, songs, and stories are still here.”

She feels proud seeing Indigenous representation grow, especially in film and media, allowing more people to truly see and appreciate Navajo and Native cultures.

At MMC, we are honored to work alongside Shannon. Her story reminds us that culture is not only history; it is living, thriving, and woven into every day.