Cherokee, NC – September 19, 2024 – The Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) and the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians (EBCI) celebrated a major milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new state-of-the-art Tsali Care Center residential care facility. The long-awaited building will officially open its doors to residents on October 14, 2024. The ceremony, marked by heartfelt speeches and cultural blessings, was a tribute to the community’s dedication to providing exceptional care for elders.
The original Tsali Care Center, which opened in 1996, has long been a pillar of elder care for the Cherokee community. Merging with CIHA in 2019, the center now benefits from the resources and support of a world-class health system. The new facility expands services to include therapy, Adult Day Care, Assisted Living, and a state-of-the-art Snoezelen room, a multi-sensory environment designed to help with relaxation and anxiety for memory care patients.
Although Tsali Care Center falls under the umbrella of the Cherokee Indian Hospital, the services it provides isn’t reserved only for enrolled members of the EBCI. The 125,000 square foot is located adjacent to the hospital and boasts 120 all-private residential rooms split into rooms for skilled nursing, assisted living, and a 20 bed memory care unit. The new facility, which is nearly double the size of the existing one, has shared dining and living spaces, multiple outdoor courtyards, a massage and salon suite, a friends and family bistro, technology spaces, and other embedded amenities.
The event began with an invocation by Miss Cherokee 2023-24 Scarlett “Gigage” Guy, who recited a prayer in the Cherokee language, written by fluent speaker Marie Junaluska. Yona Wade followed with the English translation. Beloved Woman of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) and Chair of the Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) Board, Carmaleta Monteith delivered welcome remarks that resonated with the community’s deep respect for its elders.
“A fundamental aspect of Cherokee culture is respecting our elders,” Monteith said. “This facility stands as a monumental testament to our shared commitment to ensuring our resident elders receive care with the dignity and respect they deserve.”
Bo Taylor led a ceremonial blessing, encouraging the audience to participate in a prayer facing the four directions. The ceremony carried forward the traditional spirit of the Cherokee community, reflecting both its past and its future.
Principal Chief Michell Hicks, Vice Chief Alan B. Ensley, and Tribal Council Chair Mike Parker also provided remarks, emphasizing the importance of advocating for improved healthcare and the perseverance of the Cherokee people. Chief Hicks expressed deep gratitude to all those involved in bringing the project to life, while Parker acknowledged the essential role played by the dedicated staff of Tsali Care Center, urging them to maintain the highest standards of care.
Dr. Blythe Winchester, Medical Director of Tsali Care, highlighted the significance of the “Sense of Place,” a core Cherokee value. She explained how the carefully designed environment, which combines comfort, luxury, and functional spaces, plays a vital role in the well-being of residents.
“This place was built with you at the heart of every single decision. From the private rooms to the tranquil outdoor spaces, this is your home—a place where your dignity, independence, and comfort are our number one priorities,” Casey Cooper, CEO of CIHA, said to conclude the ceremony.
For more information on the new Tsali Care Center facility, or to schedule a tour, please contact Tsali Care Center at 828.497.5048.