My name is Shawmarie Tso, I am a Dine’ woman from New Mexico. Durango has been my home for the past 30 years. I worked as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) for 22 years and most recently received my registered nurse (RN) license.  I have worked for the Southern Ute Indian Tribe since 2006 in the health clinic.  In 2014, I was hired to be the patient coordinator for Shining Mountain Health and Wellness. My duties include tracking diabetes management for patients, being a certified lactation counselor (CLC), helping moms with breastfeeding, and planning monthly breastfeeding classes.   

Clinically, I do yearly foot exams for our diabetic patients.  If I haven’t seen your feet in a year, please call me for a foot exam for diabetes. I also help my co-workers with numerous events our program puts together.  I like to be creative and help make events special through decoration.   

I work with two wonderful ladies, Heather Sorensen, RN, Program Manager and Lisa Smith, Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist.  There are only three of us, but we work with strength and determination; we are a unique group of ladies. 

Shining Mountain Health and Wellness is a grant funded program.  These are the services we offer: 

• Diabetes support and education. 

• Nutrition education for a variety of concerns. 

• Cooking classes for kids, families, and adults. 

• Comprehensive foot exams. 

• Breastfeeding classes and lactation support. 

• Mammogram and Women’s wellness resources. 

• Shining Mountain Fresh monthly meal kit. 

 

Reach out to us if you need support through any of the services that we offer. Working with our patients and gaining their trust is of utmost importance to me.  Doing what I can to help our patients, even in small ways, is one of my heartfelt passions.  

If you’re up early in the mornings, you will find me walking with my dog … that’s where self-care begins each morning.