BUFFALO, NY — Michael W. Cropp, M.D., President and CEO, Independent Health, was honored as the inaugural recipient of the Barry and Deanna Snyder, Sr. Chairman’s Honor Award for his unconditional support of the Seneca Diabetes Foundation (SDF). The award was presented at the Foundation’s recent gala.
“Seven years ago Independent Health stood together with the Seneca Diabetes Foundation pledging to support our newly formed initiative to help the Senecas, a nation of people ravaged by a terrible disease,” said SDF Founder and Chairman Barry E. Snyder, Sr. “Under his leadership and without hesitation, Dr. Cropp and Independent Health have embraced our efforts giving generously of their time and expertise to bring to life our mission and hopefully one day, through our collective works, find a cure.”
“Independent Health’s mission remains firmly focused on enhancing the quality of care and quality of life for our members and our greater community,” said Michael W. Cropp, M.D., president and chief executive officer, Independent Health. “Chronic illness, such as diabetes, accounts for nearly 75 percent of all health care costs and are largely preventable with the proper care, diet and exercise. We are committed to partnerships, like that which we share with the Seneca Diabetes Foundation, where we can work together toward a common goal to benefit the health of our entire community. I am honored to accept this award and look forward to continuing this valuable work to address this debilitating disease.”
A unique hawk and arrow crystal sculpture by Clarence-based artist Victor Trabucco was commissioned for this honor. The hawk, representing Snyder’s ancestral clan and the five bound arrows are a symbol of the strength of the five tribes of the People of the Longhouse. Alone, one arrow can easily be broken, but when bound together in harmony they remain strong.
“SDF’s relationship with Dr. Cropp and Independent Health is like the arrows,” said Snyder. “We are working as one to create a foundation for generations of healthy families.”
The Seneca Diabetes Foundation was established in 2005 by Founder and Chairman Barry E. Snyder, Sr. SDF’s mission is to provide education outreach, prevention awareness and fund research to improve the lives of Seneca Nation members; other natives and Non-Native Americans affected by diabetes.
To date, SDF has funded $2.6 million for diabetes prevention, education and treatment programs for Senecas through the Seneca Nation Health Department. The foundation is also funding a $1.5 million endowment through the Children’s Hospital of Buffalo.
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