In this edition of the Aurora Changemaker Spotlight, we feature Erin Aklestad, who’s making waves (and lots of phone calls!) as a contract owner and quality improvement consultant here in the Land of the Midnight Sun. Erin operates a concert of contracts with the State’s Department of Health, spanning from chronic disease management to rural healthcare and preventative screenings. She’s a behind-the-scenes health hero who’s all about making sure Alaskans get the message loud and clear—early cancer detection is vital!
Now, you might be wondering how Erin ended up in the cancer awareness space. It all started with incredible programs from the CDC, injecting financial support for preventative screenings into state departments. Erin’s role is to shout it from the rooftops—well, figuratively.
She ensures that these programs reach the public and the health providers. Her mission zone? The Matsu Borough and Anchorage regions.
You’ll find her reaching out to patients, collaborating with providers, and doing everything possible to increase screenings, which can save lives with early detection.
Erin is passionate about overcoming barriers for people needing screenings. She’s not just barnstorming the airwaves or partnering with community organizations; she’s calling people, sending emails, and is even uses good old-fashioned snail-mail! Erin firmly believes that these efforts can turn the tide on cancer incidences and bring us closer to dreams like eradicating cervical cancer through widespread screening and HPV vaccinations.
Erin’s knack for connecting is evident in her collaborations with passionate community partners, doing everything from organizing mammogram events to finding rides for those needing transport to screenings.
She was an integral part of last October’s Mammothon event which AIOF hosted in partnership with Glacier Surgical and Imaging Associates.
To Erin, it’s about weaving a tightly-knit support net with providers and public health allies, all marching towards better community health.
On the personal front, Erin calls the scenic Matsu Valley home. She leads a vibrant life with her husband, their two energetic boys, and yes, their two equally exuberant boy dogs—throwing heaps of fun into the family dynamic! When she’s not glued to her phone (spreading the good word about screenings), she’s out enjoying all that Alaska offers, from hiking and biking to hunting and snuggling up in their cabin in Willow.
Her husband, affectionately dubbed “Mr. Alaska,” even races in the renowned Iron Dog snow machine event! Talk about a power couple! Despite this year’s challenging conditions and abysmal lack of snow, they bagged third place—adding another highlight to their adventurous family tapestry.
Erin wanted to leave everyone with a signular heartfelt message: Get screened, everyone! There are programs ready to roll out the red carpet for screenings, especially for those who need financial support.
Erin’s enthusiasm reverberates throughout her work, with a career that’s spanned over 13 years in healthcare so far.
In short, Erin Aklestad is not just a name; she’s a force of nature committed to healthier communities and happier lives. Here’s to Erin, her dedication, and the wonderful journey she’s on—making a tangible difference in Alaska! A changemaker indeed!
