Wellness Wonderland A Day of Prayer, Healing & Community
Wellness Wonderland at San Manuel Indian Health Clinic was unlike any event we’ve ever experienced. It was not an activity or “service day”
— it was a gathering of spirit, joy, connection, and healing. San Manuel’s Health and Mental Health Department brought this event together with intention and care, and from the first moment of prayer, we knew Creator was present. That day we offered haircuts, facials, esthetic services, self-care support, and gift bags filled with everyday essentials — everything from skin care and body care to hair care products, personal items, and community resources. What you see in the photos is not just activity — it’s care in motion: faces lighting up as they received their goodie bags, children laughing with bubbles and blow-up balls, elders being greeted with warmth and respect, families sharing food, music, and smiles, and community members connecting with mental health and wellness support from vendors who came from near and far.
A Day Blessed by Creator
I know without question that my ancestors were looking down on us that day —
my grandmother, my mother, and all those who came before. Their teachings guided my heart, and their spirit walked with us. I could feel the love and intention in every exchange, every smile, every prayer. Wellness Wonderland reminded us that when we come together with heart, purpose, and respect
Wellness Wonderland reminded us that when we come together with heart, purpose, and respect
for one another, we create healing that extends beyond a single day — into the souls of our
people and the legacy of our communities.
The Blanket Honor
One of the most sacred moments of the day was when I was presented with a blanket of honor by the San Manuel leadership. In many Native cultures, including traditions respected across our Indigenous communities, the giving and presenting of a blanket carries deep spiritual significance. A blanket is not just a material gift — it is a symbol of honor, respect, protection, and community acknowledgment. When a person is draped with a blanket in ceremony or blessing, it means: they are wrapped in the respect and admiration of their people, they receive spiritual protection and encouragement their role, life, work, and contribution are recognized as meaningful they are connected in spirit to ancestors and to the community that honors them. Receiving that blanket was more than ceremonial — it was spiritual. In that moment, I felt the prayers of my ancestors, the love of my grandmother and mother, and the collective intention of community support. To be honored in this way means that the work we do — giving back, serving others, uplifting community — is seen and acknowledged with love and spirit.
This day was about more than services — it was about people feeling seen, valued, and loved.
This event was proudly presented by DeJon Salon & Aesthetics Center and AVO Medical Aesthetics, alongside an incredible artistic and medical team who showed up with open hearts. Every service, every product, every gift bag was prepared with love and intention. Seeing the smiles, gratitude, and relief on people’s faces was overwhelming in the most beautiful way
“This day reminded me that our community still has strength, love, and hope.”
Coming Together for Healing and Joy
Wellness Wonderland wasn’t just a series of booths or services. It was community care in action:
Vendor Support: Dental care, eyewear and eye care, mental health resources, prevention education, and every service that helps someone — these vendors brought healing, education, and connection under one roof.
Food, Music & Fellowship: A space where people shared meals, stories, laughter, and fellowship — reminding us that community builds wellness.
Hair Care: Haircuts offered not just for style, but as a gesture of dignity and self-esteem.
Facials & Esthetics: Services that make people feel valued and cared for, not rushed or overlooked.
Gift Bags: Filled with items that matter — daily care products, skin care, hair care, and gifts that brought excitement and smiles to every person who opened them. Family Fun: Bubbles, balls, games, laughter — especially for children whose joy reminded us that healing can be light and playful too.
“I didn’t feel like a patient — I felt like family.”