Wishing Barbara Cunningham a Happy Retirement After 12 Years
After 12 years of committed service in patient care and diabetes education at Oklahoma City Indian Clinic, Barbara Cunningham retired in December 2024, filled with gratitude and anticipation for
the future.
Reflecting on her career, Cunningham said the most rewarding moments came when patients took control of their health. “I remember many times being encouraged when patients would verbalize what they learned and what they changed in their lifestyle and behaviors to manage their diabetes,” she said.
She is especially proud of the BRAID diabetes education program, which has evolved to include continuous glucose monitoring and hands-on learning experiences
Embracing Change, Guiding the Future
Cunningham has seen significant changes at the clinic, from its close-knit beginnings to expanding programs and facilities like the STAR Demonstration Kitchen. She remained motivated through challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, by her passion for helping patients. For those entering the field, her advice is simple: “Try different jobs in health care to find your passion and happy place.”
An Exciting Next Chapter of Life
As she looks ahead to retirement, Cunningham is eager for new adventures, including an Alaska cruise, home renovation projects and more time outdoors. She hopes to be remembered as “a person with a smile who finds the positive viewpoint in situations and is part of solving problems with teamwork.”
Oklahoma City Indian Clinic expressed its deep gratitude for Cunningham’s years of service with an exciting retirement celebration, recognizing her dedication to improving patients’ lives and her lasting impact on diabetes education. Her colleagues and patients will miss her presence, but her contributions will continue to benefit the clinic for years to come.
Barbara sees retirement not as an end, but as a new beginning—an opportunity to serve others, explore and embrace life’s next chapter.