His family confirmed via an announcement, which read in part:

“Our father was a servant leader—not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world,” said the Jackson family. We shared him with the world, and in return, the world became a part of our extended family. His unwavering belief in justice, equality, and love uplifted millions, and we ask you to honor his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by.”

 

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A Son of the South

He was born Jesse Louis Burns in Greenville, South Carolina, on October 8, 1941, to Helen Burns, 16, and Noah Louis Robinson, a married man who lived next door. His mother married Charles Jackson, and he was eventually adopted. He didn’t live with any of his parents and was reared by his grandmother in a shotgun shack, according to the New York Times.

Jackson earned a football scholarship to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, but only stayed a year because of the racism he had to endure. He transferred to North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T), a historically Black institution in Greensboro, a year after the historic Woolworth’s lunch counter protest in 1960. He was a leader in his fraternity and the student body president. While there, he met and married a fellow student, Jacqueline Lavania Brown.

Becoming a Civil Rights Leader and a Minister

While still a student at NC A&T, Jackson led a protest of hundreds of students through downtown Greensboro. He was arrested the following day, and many believe that was the beginning of his activism. After graduating, he shifted his interest from law to ministry and enrolled at the Chicago Theological Seminary.

But witnessing the beating of protesters in Selma, Alabama, on television in March 1965, spurred him into action. He enlisted students and faculty to join in on a trip to Alabama. There, he met Dr. King and offered to work with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC).

By age 24, he was the youngest member of the SCLC and was leading the Chicago chapter of Operation Breadbasket. “The program favored negotiation with business leaders, but when employers refused or backed out of hiring agreements, hundreds of participating ministers headed for their pulpits, according to a Chicago Public Library blog on the program. This led to several “Don’t Buy” (short for “Don’t Buy Where You Can’t Work”) picketing campaigns outside of supermarkets.” Reverend Jackson withdrew from seminary six months before completing his degree to devote his efforts to Dr. King and the Civil Rights Movement (he was later ordained). Reverend Jackson was among those present at the Lorraine Hotel in Memphis when Dr. King was assassinated in April 1968.

He Ran for President Twice

In the 1970s, Reverend Jackson became more widely known as a gifted orator. With his signature call-and-response, “I am Somebody!” He formed the PUSH Coalition, focused on improving economic conditions in the Black community. In 1984, after his first unsuccessful bid for the Democratic presidential nomination, he created the National Rainbow Coalition to fight for equal rights for all. He used his mission as a rallying cry for his speech at the 1988 Democratic convention, where he came in second. His “Keep Hope Alive”  speech called for social justice and unity. The two organizations merged in 1996 to become the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.

Jackson Continued to Fight for Civil Rights into His Later Years

Reverend Jackson’s life and career weren’t without controversy, including the revelation that he fathered a child with one of his staffers. However, he continued to fight for equality and justice well into his later years, even after he announced his health diagnosis of Parkinson’s in November 2017. He was arrested four years later during protests in our nation’s capital against voting restrictions that Republicans pushed. He officially retired from his role at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition in 2023.

A Larger-Than-Life Legacy

Reverend Jackson has left an indelible mark on this nation that we will not forget. In 2000, President Bill Clinton awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline; their children, Santita, Jesse Jr., Jonathan, Yusef, and Jacqueline; his daughter, Ashley Jackson; and his grandchildren. Our condolences go out to his family.

The post Reverend Jesse Jackson, a Civil Rights Legend, Has Passed Away appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What is Congestive Heart Failure?

According to the Mayo Clinic, heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t pump blood as well as it should. When this happens, blood often backs up and fluid can build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath. If you have CHF, your heart can’t supply enough blood to meet your body’s needs.

When asked about his initial symptoms, Reid said, “Maybe over the last year or so, I started to feel more fatigued than before. And then when you feel that shortness of breath, sleeping a lot, more than normal…I think you just chalk it up to getting older, the road is harsh, doing the old kick step.”

In July 2025, the Class Act actor’s symptoms worsened, which led him to the emergency room at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. where he received the shocking diagnosis. Other symptoms can include:

• Shortness of breath with activity or when lying down.
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet.
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Reduced ability to exercise.
• Wheezing.
• A cough that doesn’t go away or a cough that brings up white or pink mucus with spots of blood.
• Swelling of the belly area.
• Very rapid weight gain from fluid buildup.
• Nausea and lack of appetite.
• Difficulty concentrating or decreased alertness.
• Chest pain if heart failure is caused by a heart attack.

The American Heart Association reports that having at least one of the following risk factors may increase the risk of developing the condition. They include coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, thyroid problems, metabolic syndrome, and getting older.

The Initial Treatment Prescribed for Reid Didn’t Work

Treatment for congestive heart failure often involves lifestyle changes and medications. Initially, Reid was given medication to treat his condition. When he returned for a three-week follow-up with his cardiologist, Dr. Erika Jones, she was immediately concerned. “He came in very swollen again, and that is a little unusual in somebody who’s been started on treatment, for the swelling to come back that quickly,” she told “GMA.”

Although he was scheduled to go out of town for a gig, Reid cancelled to undergo further testing. The results confirmed that his heart was failing and his condition was also impacting other organs. Dr. Jones urged him to return to Cedars-Sinai’s emergency room, where he was placed in the ICU.

A Heart Transplant Was His Only Option

The rapper learned his condition was quite serious, and he was placed on a transplant waiting list. Cardiothoracic surgeon, Dr. Laura Dichiacchio, told GMA the waiting list was crucial because Reid was in a life-or-death situation. He received a transplant nine days later.

Reid said he plans to cherish his second chance at life, saying, “This thing is … a beautiful life. It’s great. And, you know, I wanna be around for it.”

He also wants to encourage people of color to put their health first, a message that applies to his brothers in hip-hop, who often leave us too early. The American Heart Association says Black adults account for 50% of heart failure hospitalizations among US adults under 50.

Resources

Mayo Clinic: Heart Failure

American Heart Association: Causes  and Risks For Heart Failure

The post Kid ‘n Play‘s Christopher Reid Reveals He Had a Heart Transplant appeared first on Black Health Matters.

It’s a shift from the usual tone of health messaging, and it lands at a time when many men still avoid the topic entirely. For former Titans tight end Delanie Walker and longtime Chiefs star Tony Gonzalez, the message feels personal. Both joined the campaign with a sense of responsibility shaped by their own experiences and the people they care about.

Delanie Walker Understands What’s at Stake

Delanie Walker joined the campaign shortly after losing a family member to prostate cancer. The timing made the invitation feel heavier than a typical partnership.

“It was a no-brainer,” he said. “Something had just happened in my family, and now I can spread a message that might help someone catch it earlier.”

Before filming, Walker didn’t know a blood test could be used for screening. He assumed the exam always involved a more invasive examination that many men avoid. Learning about the blood test changed how he talks about screening with the people around him.

“I had no idea you could take a blood test to get screened,” he said. “We can relax, because it’s a blood test.”

Walker believes athletes can help open the door to conversations men usually sidestep.

“We want people to understand we’re just like them,” he said. He also knows how prostate cancer affects Black men at higher rates. “You’re not counted out,” he said. “If you are forty and up, getting screened can help with early detection.”

Walker explained why humor feels right for this message. The pun on “tight end” gives men permission to laugh before they listen, and it takes the edge off. It turns a tense topic into something people can discuss. “You kind of walk into that doctor’s room tight,” he said. “We’re telling you that you don’t have to do that. You can relax. It’s just a blood test.”

What stayed with him most was what he learned about his own health. “I really had no idea about prostate cancer,” he said. “Being part of this campaign, I learned even more about it and what I need to do to take care of myself.”

Tony Gonzalez on Taking the First Step

Tony Gonzalez joined the campaign for a deeply personal reason. Prostate cancer has affected several members of his family, including his grandfather and his uncle, both of whom passed away from the disease. “It is something that is personal to me,” he said. “It has affected members of my family, so it is personal from that standpoint.”

He recalls the anxiety surrounding the traditional exam. He has been through it himself and knows how many men avoid screening because of it. The campaign’s focus on a blood test felt like a chance to shift that fear into something more manageable.

“This is an alternative way to doing it,” he said. “It’s a blood test.”

Gonzalez wants men to understand how accessible that first step can be. Prostate cancer is common, and early detection gives people the best chance at a strong outcome. “You can go out there and just get the blood test,” he said.

The Super Bowl gives the message a reach that few platforms can match. Gonzalez knows how many men will be watching and how many partners, friends, and family members will be watching with them.

“When they can see guys they love watching play, it spreads that awareness,” he said. He hopes it encourages people to start conversations that often feel uncomfortable. “This is an important thing to do. It’s for your health.”

Why Tight Ends Work

The campaign features eight men, a deliberate nod to the statistic that one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. Seven are current or former tight ends, and each wore a jersey in the eighties at some point in his career. The number is symbolic, but it also helps connect the message to the people most likely to see it.

That connection matters because prostate cancer is often silent in the early stages. The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test measures a protein in the blood that may indicate changes in the prostate. It’s a simple blood draw that saves lives.

What They Want You to Know

Both Gonzalez and Walker want men to understand that the hardest part is starting the conversation. The campaign offers a way in. A simple blood test.

“It’s a conversation that needs to be had,” Gonzalez said. Walker agrees. “If cancer is at its lowest, we can treat it,” he said. “If it’s too late, it’s hard to treat.”

The next move is simple. Take the test. Tell your loved ones. Stay ahead by catching early.

It doesn’t have to be an ordeal. Breathe in, breathe out, and relax. All it takes is a blood test.

Resources:

Find a Prostate Cancer Screening | Relax it’s a Blood Test

The post “Relax, It’s a Blood Test” Delanie Walker and Tony Gonzalez Talk Prostate Cancer appeared first on Black Health Matters.

TMZ reported that Norwood had been admitted to a Las Vegas hospital earlier this month. They attributed his admission to heart pains and a case of pneumonia.

 

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Details About His Heart Issues

The reality star shed light on the details behind the incident in the Instagram post. “I want to thank everybody for praying for me,” he stated, looking directly into the camera lens. “I was in a hospital. My heart’s only beating like 25 percent, but as long as I stay focused and stay on the right path, then everything will be all right, so thank you for all your prayers.”

Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States of America. “One person dies every 34 seconds from cardiovascular disease,” according to the Centers for Disease Control.

The American Heart Association reports that the amount of heart function that is considered “normal” is “between 55% and 70%.” Anything lower than that could potentially indicate severe damage to the heart, which could come with serious side effects. The tests used to measure heart function include echocardiograms (commonly referred to as echos), nuclear imaging, cardiac catheterizations, and cardiac MRIs.

Black Men Are at a Higher Risk for Heart Issues

The Journal of the American Medical Association considers heart failure with reduced ejection fraction “a major public health concern with substantial morbidity and mortality.” According to the Office of Minority Health, “Black/African Americans were 35% more likely than the U.S. population overall to die from major heart and blood vessel disease.” Trends in cardiovascular disease risk in the U.S. have cited Black men as a particularly vulnerable population for adverse cardiovascular events. Research from the American Journal of Preventive Medicine places them as 65% more likely to have a heart attack or stroke.

Excessive Alcohol and Drug Use Can Increase Risks

In another since-expired video, which was ripped and migrated across social platforms, Norwood again referenced his health. He expressed regret for what he appeared to deem as excessive partying. “I shouldn’t have gone this hard,” he told viewers and another man who repeatedly entered and exited the frame before revealing that he had an upcoming appointment for further testing. Alcohol has been identified by the American Heart Association as a risk for cardiovascular disease, noting that “Drinking patterns, in particular binge and heavy episodic drinking, may modify the relationship between alcohol consumption and CAD risk.” Substance abuse of any kind can present physical health hurdles. Certain studies have even linked cannabis use to heart health risks. Norwood referenced heavy drinking in one of the videos he posted.

“Four or five bottles a day, 10 addys, f**ked my heart up on the right side right here,” he said, gesturing to his chest. “It’s like black, it’s like done.”

“2027 is definitely a wrap for me,” he added.

“Atherosclerotic heart disease and its antecedents pose the greatest risk for cardiovascular events for people prescribed stimulants,” per the Journal of Attention Disorders. “Stimulants are associated with increased risks of hypertension, coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, cardiomyopathy, and stroke,” according to a 2025 article from the Journal of Substance Use: Research and Treatment. Prescription stimulants are particularly risky for older adults, according to a 2021 study from the Journal of Pharmacy and Clinical Pharmacology.

Norwood made a few references to coconut water, which some perceive as a health tonic because of the potassium and electrolytes it contains, in the videos. He also shared his perspective on what he was thinking before his health challenges. He claimed he thought he was “undestructible.” “I could handle all the alcohol, I could handle all the adderall, I could handle all the drugs, but I couldn’t,” he continued. “It curved my time here. It curved it,” he added.

February is American Heart Month, an annual event that promotes heart health and raises awareness of the deadly threat of cardiovascular disease.

Resources

Centers for Disease Control

American Heart Association

Journal of the American Medical Association

American Journal of Preventive Medicine

American Heart Association

Journal of Attention Disorders

Journal of Substance Use: Research and Treatment

Journal of Pharmacy and Clinical Pharmacology

The post Ray J Reveals His Heart Is Functioning at “25%” appeared first on Black Health Matters.

 

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At 99, Lee’s legacy is already part of American history. Seeing her story reflected in a doll designed by Carlyle Nuera, with packaging by Vicky Gevorkyan, adds a new layer to her impact and offers representation that young people can hold in their hands.

Her Activism in Focus

The doll mirrors Lee’s signature look from Opal’s Walk for Freedom, the annual two and a half mile walk she leads to honor the long gap between emancipation and the day freedom reached enslaved people in Texas. Dressed in a custom event tee, white joggers, and sneakers, the doll reflects the spirit of a woman who showed what it means to stand up for freedom.
For Lee, Juneteenth has never been just a date. She was born in Marshall, Texas in 1926. She grew up with the memory of her family’s home being burned down by white rioters on Juneteenth in 1939. That experience fueled her lifelong mission to ensure the holiday’s meaning was recognized across the country.

Decades of Determination

Lee spent years educating communities, organizing events, and urging lawmakers to acknowledge Juneteenth as a national holiday. Her work culminated in 2021 when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law with Lee standing beside him.

Her advocacy continued long before and long after that moment. In 2016, she walked 1,400 miles from Fort Worth to Washington, D.C., stopping in cities along the way to complete symbolic walks and build support. In 2024, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom and earned her eighth honorary doctorate. Even when health challenges kept her from participating in the 2025 walk, communities carried the tradition forward in her honor.

Representation That Matters

Barbie and Lee shared the first images of the doll in a joint Instagram post, and the response was immediate. Fans celebrated the tribute as a milestone for representation and a meaningful acknowledgment of Lee’s influence.

Many wrote about growing up with Barbie and finally seeing dolls that reflect real women who shaped history. In addition to that reaction, others thanked the brand for recognizing that representation is not a trend but a responsibility.

 

A Legacy for the Next Generation

By honoring Lee, Barbie is preserving a story of resilience and liberation that has shaped Black families for generations. For Black children who will see this doll on shelves, it is a reminder that their history carries weight. It also reinforces that their future is theirs to shape.

Lee has always said that freedom is something we must work toward every day. Her likeness now stands as a symbol of that belief and an invitation for the next generation to keep moving forward.

Resources:

Barbie Inspiring Women Dr. Opal Lee Doll

The post Barbie Honors Opal Lee With a New Inspiring Women Doll appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Megan’s Turn at the Menu

Megan Thee Stallion is expanding her food footprint again, this time with a Dunkin collaboration that’s already getting attention. The limited-edition “Hot Girls Run on Dunkin,” cup comes in a sunset gradient with her signature neon heart, and it launched alongside Dunkin’s new Protein Refreshers made with Protein Milk. It’s a smart extension of the lane she’s been building for years, from her Hottie Sauce era to her Popeyes franchise ownership and the Miami Beach location she officially opened in January 2026. Megan’s steady presence in the fast food space has fans watching closely, curious about what she’ll put her stamp on next.

She recently shared a clip of herself with the cup, styled in Dunkin’s pink and orange palette, hinting that fans should get in on the drop while it lasts.

 

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How We Got Here

Megan’s moment isn’t happening in isolation. Over the past few years, celebrities have been shaping fast food from the inside out through custom meals, branded sauces, marketing takeovers, and even franchise ownership. The wave picked up in 2020 with Travis Scott’s meal, and it’s only grown from there.

McDonald’s kept the momentum going with a series of celebrity meals that followed.

In 2021, Saweetie came out with her combo, which included a Big Mac, four-piece Chicken McNuggets, medium fries, a Sprite, Tangy BBQ Sauce, and “Saweetie’ N Sour” sauce, a renamed version of the classic Sweet ‘N Sour sauce. The campaign encouraged fans to mix and match the items however they liked, turning the meal into a kind of edible playlist.

Cardi B and Offset’s 2023 Valentine’s Day meal included her go-to cheeseburger with BBQ sauce and a large Coke, while he enjoyed a Quarter Pounder with Cheese and a large Hi-C Orange Lavaburst, accompanied by fries and an apple pie to share.

Then, in 2025, Angel Reese, an NCAA champion and WNBA rookie, became the first female athlete to secure a national meal collaboration with McDonald’s. The Angel Reese Special included a BBQ Bacon Quarter Pounder with Cheese featuring a new Bold BBQ Sauce, medium fries, and a drink of choice. The campaign leveraged her basketball legacy and rising profile to showcase her emerging talent in women’s sports.

Other Chains Join the Conversation

Fast food collaborations did not stop at McDonald’s. Lil Nas X took on a creative role at Taco Bell, helping relaunch breakfast and tie it to his album rollout. Ice Spice’s 2023 Dunkin’ drink, a frozen coffee with pumpkin Munchkins and caramel drizzle, dropped during the VMAs in a campaign directed by Ben Affleck. These were cross-platform moments designed to meet fans where they already were.

From Endorsement to Ownership

Some celebrities have moved beyond the promotional cycle and into long-term investments. Rick Ross owns over a dozen Wingstop locations and has a stake in Checkers. LeBron James owns 19 franchise locations for Blaze Pizza. Then there’s Shaquille O’Neal, whose food empire includes nine Papa John’s, 17 Auntie Anne’s, one Krispy Kreme flagship in Atlanta, and his fast-growing chain, Big Chicken. These business strategies truly reflect a shift in how celebrity influence is leveraged.

The Calorie Burden Behind the Hype

According to the CDC’s National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, about 32% of U.S. adults consumed fast food on a given day between 2021 and 2023, with fast food accounting for 11.7% of daily calories. Among younger adults aged 20 to 39, the figure rises to 15.2%.

Celebrity meals are engineered for buzz, not balance. The Angel Reese Special clocks in at over 1,250 calories, which is more than half the recommended daily sodium intake for many adults. Saweetie’s meal and Cardi B and Offset’s combo offer similar nutrition profiles. It’s fun, and it may even be shareable, but making fast food a routine has profound implications for health outcomes.

Linking the Plate to Public Health

Between 2021 and 2023, 35.8% of Black children and adolescents had obesity. According to CDC data published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, this is the highest rate among all racial groups. Experts attribute food insecurity, targeted advertising, and reduced access to safe physical activity as the primary contributors.

But the Office of Minority Health report says Black or African American students in 9-12 grade were at the most significant risk. “Non-Hispanic Black or African American female students were almost 2 times more likely to be obese than non-Hispanic white female students.”

Colorectal Cancer is Also Rising in Younger People

Meanwhile, colorectal cancer is on the rise among younger adults, and the outlook is particularly harsh for Black Americans. The American Cancer Society’s 2025 report shows that Black men are 20% more likely to be diagnosed and 40% more likely to die from colorectal cancer than white men. Early 2026 projections indicate that these disparities have not improved.

For Black women, incidence is 14% higher, and mortality is 25% higher. Processed, low-fiber diets, typical of many fast-food options, are associated with an elevated risk, alongside structural barriers to screening and treatment.

This isn’t about feeling guilty for indulging in the latest trendy meal. However, it’s worth taking a moment to consider the more profound implications of seeing so many of our favorite celebrities promoting foods that don’t support our health. Our community already faces health disparities; it doesn’t exactly help to see a beloved musician holding up a burger stacked with sodium, sugar, and branding. When entertainment and marketing merge seamlessly, it’s easy to forget what’s truly at stake.

Dinner with a Side of Influence

Celebrity meals aren’t changing the food industry outright, but they’ve shaped how we engage with it. They blur the line between marketing and entertainment, and between habit and hype.

No one is forcing the order, but these meals reflect how easily pop culture can infiltrate our routines. We’ll leave it to you to decide who holds the influence: the celebrity, the brand, or the part of you that values your health over the hype.

Resources

How Hip-Hop Superstar Travis Scott Has Become Corporate America’s Brand Whisperer

NCHS Data Brief, Number 533, June 2025

Obesity Prevalence Among Children and Adolescents in the United States, 2011 to 2023 | Annals of Internal Medicine

Obesity and Black/African Americans | Office of Minority Health

Cancer statistics for African American and Black people, 2025

The post The Rise of Celebrity-Endorsed Calories appeared first on Black Health Matters.

“To us, she was more than a historical figure. She was the heart of our family, wise, resilient, and grounded in faith,” the Claudette Colvin Foundation said in a statement announcing her death. “We will remember her laughter, her sharp wit, and her unwavering belief in justice and human dignity.”

Colvin’s Act of Resistance

On March 2, 1955, Colvin boarded a bus in Montgomery. Black passengers needed to ride in the back. However, there was a section called “No man’s land,” where bus drivers could demand that any Black passenger relinquish their seat, and the entire row, if a white rider wanted to sit there. On that day, four Black riders were asked to move; two changed sections immediately. Colvin and another passenger remained seated. When the driver called the police, the teen was the only one still refusing to move.

Colvin didn’t choose this action lightly. At the time, she was an honors student at Booker T. Washington High School. Colvin had just completed studying Black History and learning about injustices in the South. She was also active in her school’s NAACP Youth Council, and had been considering ways to protest.

“I felt as though Harriet Tubman was pushing me down on one shoulder and Sojourner Truth was pushing me down on the other,” she said. “So, therefore, history had me glued to the seat. That was the reason I could not move.”

When the police arrived, they removed her forcibly, dragging her backward off the bus as she screamed. She feared being attacked or worse by the officers. “I didn’t know if they were crazy, if they were going to take me to a Klan meeting,” she told The Guardian in 2000. “I started protecting my crotch. I was afraid they might rape me.”

The teen was charged with violating segregation laws, disturbing the peace, and assaulting an officer. She was found guilty of the assault charge, made a ward of the state, and received indefinite probation. Peers and some in the community shunned her.

Why She Didn’t Become the Face of the Montgomery Bus Boycott

Many aren’t familiar with Colvin’s actions because Rosa Parks was chosen to be the face of the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Although the NAACP and other civil rights leaders knew about her bold act of protest, they waited until Rosa Parks, nine months later, objected by giving up her seat in the same act of resistance before moving forward with any action.

Some speculate that colorism and class were involved; leaders believed getting the middle class on board with the boycott would be easier with Parks. There was also misinformation surrounding Colvin being pregnant, which occurred months after the incident.

“My mother told me to be quiet about what I did,” Ms. Colvin recalled. “She told me: ‘Let Rosa be the one. “White people aren’t going to bother Rosa, her skin is lighter than yours, and they like her,” she told the New York Times.

Colvin Was a Key Figure in a Landmark Case

While she wasn’t chosen as the face of the boycott, her attorney, Fred D. Gray, included Colvin as one of the four defendants—along with Aurelia Browder, Susie McDonald, and Mary Louise Smith—in a 1956 federal lawsuit, Browder v. Gayle. The lawsuit was against the City of Montgomery, the state of Alabama, centered on unfair treatment on the city buses. After winning the case, it was escalated to the Supreme Court, which affirmed the ruling. The case was instrumental in striking down bus segregation.

Her participation in the lawsuit and her act of defiance on the city bus led to her being labeled a troublemaker by both whites and Blacks. By the end of the decade, Colvin had relocated from Montgomery to the Bronx, New York. She worked as an aide in a Manhattan nursing home for 35 years.

In 2010, the street where she grew up was renamed Claudette Colvin Drive, and a mural depicting the teen and elder Colvin was added eight years later.

Why the Story is Not Widely Known

It would be decades before Colvin shared her story. She continued to follow her mother’s advice. She continued to heed her mother’s advice and worried that drawing attention to herself would cost her her job. “I wasn’t going to take that chance,” she said.

We will never forget Claudette Colvin for her strength, bravery, and act of defiance. Our condolences go out to her loved ones.

The post Claudette Colvin, An Unsung Catalyst of the Civil Rights Movement Has Died appeared first on Black Health Matters.

 

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A Family Member Inspired Lavallade’s Dance Aspiration

She was born Carmen Paula de Lavallade on March 6, 1931, in Los Angeles. Her family, originally from New Orleans, had migrated West in the 1920s. Her father, Leo, was a bricklayer and a postal worker. Her mom, Grace Grenot de Lavallade, passed away when the dancer was a teen.

Her cousin, Janet Collins, who broke glass ceilings to become the first prima ballerina at the Metropolitan Opera House in the 1950s, fueled Ms. de Lavallade’s interest in dance and served as her mentor. The aspiring dancer was dedicated to learning and took three buses to get to her classes in Hollywood.

It paid off: at the age of 16, she received a scholarship to study with modern dance master and Dance Theater of Los Angeles founder Lester Horton. She brought her high school buddy, Alvin Ailey, to class.

Ms. Lavallade performed as a lead dancer with Horton from 1949 until 1954, when she joined Alvin Ailey’s company. According to the New York Times, Lavallade said, “At Mr. HHorton’sschool, she soaked up his multidisciplinary approach, taking classes in ballet, modern and African dance forms, as well as acting, music and painting.”

Ms Lavallade’s Broadway Debut Led to Love

Her exquisite dance prowess caught the attention of influential people. Lena Horne helped introduce Ms. Lavallade to film roles in Hollywood. She acted opposite Harry Belafonte in Odds Against Tomorrow. A role in Otto Preminger’s Carmen Jones led to her being cast in the Broadway production of Truman Capote’s House of Flowers. It debuted in December 1954 with stars including Pearl Bailey, Diahann Carroll, and Alvin Ailey. During production, she met co-star Geoffrey Holder, and the two married in 1955, remaining an artistic power couple until he died in 2014. The two choreographed her signature solo, “Come Sunday.”

Her Career Spanned Six Decades

The prolific actor, dancer, and choreographer led her talent to several companies, including Donald McKayle, the American Ballet Theater, the Dance Theatre of Harlem, and the Metropolitan Opera. She joined the Yale School of Drama as a choreographer and performer-in-residence in the 1970s, before becoming a professor at the Yale Repertory Theater. She continued to dance throughout the decades, giving her final performance at 88.

 

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Ms. de Lavallade and her work garnered numerous awards, including the Black History Month Lifetime Achievement Award, the Bessie Award, and the Rosie Award. She received the 2017 Kennedy Center Honors. Her legacy will continue to inspire creatives for decades to come.

Our sincere condolences go out to her family, including her son, Leo, and her sister, Yvonne de Lavallade Davis.

The post Carmen de Lavallade, A Legendary Dance Icon, Has Passed Away appeared first on Black Health Matters.

A Beloved Son of Washington, D.C.

While Smallwood was born in Atlanta, he was raised by his mother, Mabel, and his stepfather, the Reverend Chester Lee “CL Smallwood, in the nation’s capital. Reverend Smallwood was the pastor of the Union Temple Baptist Church in the Southeast section of the district.

His connection to music began when he was five, playing the piano by ear. By seven, he began formal lessons and joined his first gospel group as a preteen. After graduating from McKinley Technical High School, Smallwood went to Howard University. There, he became a founding member of Howard University’s Gospel Choir and a member of the Celestial Singers before graduating cum laude.

His Debut Album Spent 87 Weeks on the Billboard Charts

Inspired by the Edwin Hawkins Singers, the composer and arranger formed The Richard Smallwood Singers in 1977. They were signed to Onyx Records, a division of Benson Records, in 1982. The group’s self-titled debut album topped Billboard Spiritual Albums sales charts for months. Two years later, the group was up for their first Grammy for Psalms.

In 1987, one of Smallwood’s most beloved songs, “Center of My Joy,” was released on the album “Textures.” The song made the composer a crossover sensation. In the 1990s, he formed Richard Smallwood and Vision, which featured a larger choir. Throughout the 90s and early 2000s, the group released four albums and several well-known hits. They include “I’ll Trust You, “Angels,” and “Total Praise.”

Whitney Houston sang a version of Smallwood’s  “I Love the Lord” in the film The Preacher’s Wife, and Destiny’s Child released a live version of “Total Praise” in 2001.

Total Praise was a very personal song for the artist because it was a reflection of the composer’s battle with depression.

The Washington Post reported “Total Praise,” released in 1996 with his gospel group Vision, was inspired by his experience caring for his mother, who had dementia, and for a family friend who had cancer. Mr. Smallwood said he had decided “to write a pity-party song,” but found himself praising God instead, crafting lyrics that reasserted his faith in a moment of despair.”

Grammy Nominations, Dove and Stellar Awards

In total, the contemporary gospel maestro received eight Grammy nominations. He received the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award at the Stellar Awards. And his most recent Dove nomination was this year as a co-writer; Ricky Dillard’s “When I Think” was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2006.

Smallwood didn’t perform or record as much in recent years because he also had mild dementia and several other health ailments.

The post Gospel Music Maestro Richard Smallwood Has Died appeared first on Black Health Matters.

From the Big Easy to the Bay Area

Born in Detroit on December 22, 1921, Betty Charbonnet lived there briefly with her parents, Dorson Louis Charbonnet and Lottie Breaux Allen, before they moved back to their hometown, New Orleans. The family moved to the West Bay Area in 1927, after losing their home during the Great Flood.

She married Mel Reid shortly after graduating from Crestmont High School. During World War II, she worked as a file clerk in the segregated Union Hall of Boilermakers’, A-36.

In 1945, Reid Soskin opened one of the first Black-owned record shops in California, Reid’s Records in Berkeley. A mother of four, she actively fundraised for the Black Panther Party. She was also active in politics, becoming a delegate for George McGovern in his Presidential bid against Richard Nixon.

After her first marriage ended in divorce, she married a UC Berkeley psychology professor, William Soskin, and they also divorced.

Her Activism Led to A Career in Politics

Before she was a park ranger, Reid Soskin led a life of service to her community. Following the health decline of her first husband, Reid Soskin took over the management of Reid’s Records in the late 1970s. However, because of the drug problems plaguing the area surrounding the store, she made noise at City Hall for them to clean the neighborhood. That led to jobs as a legislative aide, a Berkeley council member, and a field representative for two members of the State Assembly.

From Park Advocate to Park Ranger

In the early 2000s, Reid Soskin first became involved with the National Park Service when she attended meetings between Richmond, California, and the agency as they planned the Rosie the Riveter/WWII Homefront National Historical Park. At 84, she began uncovering the untold stories of African Americans and earned a temporary position with the NPS. In 2007, when she was 86, her position became permanent. Reid Soskin’s role included leading public programs and sharing personal remembrances at the park visitor center.

Despite sustaining injuries during a burglary attack and a stroke, Reid Soskin continued in her role until 2022, when she retired. As the oldest active Park Ranger, Reid Soskin took her responsibility seriously. She even wore it when off-duty as an opportunity to inspire others.

“When I’m on the streets or on an escalator or elevator, I am making every little girl of color aware of a career choice she may not have known she had,” Ms. Soskin said in a 2015 interview with the Department of the Interior. “The pride is evident in their eyes.”

A Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother

Over the years, Reid Soskin received many honors. She was named California Woman of the Year in 1995, the Sierra Club’s Trailblazer Award in 2016, and one of Glamour’s Women of the Year in 2018. In 2021, Juan Crespi Middle School was renamed after the Bay Area icon following student lobbying for a name change.

Reid Soskin is survived by her son, three daughters, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Our condolences go out to the family.

The post Betty Reid Soskin, the Oldest National Park Service Ranger Has Died appeared first on Black Health Matters.

 

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Jones Reflected on the Past Year

Those who watch TODAY know that Jones returned from a leave that started about a year ago. Holding back tears, she said, “A year ago at this time was tough for me. I decided I should step back and be with my husband. And we were in a fight.”

Jones’ husband, Uche Ojeh, passed away after a battle with brain cancer last May. But with optimism, she said no one could write this script. She fondly recalled the encouragement from the church elders from her home church in Wichita, Kansas, when she tried to sing a solo, “Let the Lord use you,” and feels she can hear them now.

When the mom of three talked more about finding joy in this moment, she wanted us to know how it struck her emotionally.

“It feels divine. It feels like Uche’s up there with God, and he’s Mr. Competitive. Alright, let’s go make this happen for Sheinelle.’

Jenna & Sheinelle Will Make Debut January 12th

Since Hoda Kotb’s departure, there have been more than 60 cohosts rotating with Bush Hager in hopes of snagging that coveted slot. But the pairing with Jones is an ideal choice.

“What people may not know is that Sheinelle and I have this long, beautiful history together,” Bush Hager noted. The two journalists have known each other for a decade. And were often the substitute cohosts for Kathy Lee & Hoda.

Their connection extends beyond the studio, with the two enjoying lunches together and taking their daughters on playdates and outings.

Hoda Imparts Her Wisdom to Sheinelle

Jones’ TODAY family is overjoyed about her new role. And it should come as no surprise that Kotb would be among them. She called Jones the night before the official announcement and offered her some profound words, taking a couple of minutes away from her daughter Clara’s dance recital.

Jones recalls her advice, “Let’s remember this moment. You’re going to talk about how this was a moment that changed your career. And it was the best decision for you and your kids.” Kotb told her that working with Bush Hager will be better than she could imagine.

A Position With A Higher Purpose

As Jones prepares to assume her new role, she sees it as a blessing with a higher purpose and feels a sense of responsibility. “We can bring joy, hope, and comfort,” she said. “Just as healing as it is and fun for me, I hope we can bring the same thing to audiences at home.”

The post Sheinelle Jones Shows Us What Fighting for Joy Looks Like appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Glover Had a Very Bad Headache

The five-time Grammy Award winner told the audience, “I had a really bad pain in my head in Louisiana, but I did the show anyway.”  He waited until the next 2024 tour stop to get checked out,” he said.

“I couldn’t really see well, so when we went to Houston, I went to the hospital, and the doctor was like, ‘You had a stroke.”

“And the first thing I thought was like, ‘Oh, here I am still copying Jamie Foxx,’” he joked, referring to Foxx’s stroke in 2023. “That’s really like the second thing. The first thing was like, ‘I’m letting everybody down.’ I know it’s not true.

Between Atlanta, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Bando Stone & The New World, was there much rest? It looks as if he was creating with every fiber of his being. Black men need to take going to the doctor seriously.

Symptoms of a Stroke

According to the American Stroke Association, Glover didn’t have the most common symptoms of a stroke, which are:

• Face Drooping
• Arm Weakness
• Speech Difficultly
• (all equal) Time to Call 911

But the Community star did complain of some of these symptoms.

• Numbness (face, arms, legs, or one side of the body)
• Confusion
• Trouble Seeing
• Trouble Walking
• Severe Headache

If you experience any of these symptoms, call 911.

The Actor and Musician Also Discovered He Had a Hole in His Heart

The artist, who retired the Childish Gambino alter ego last year, said doctors also discovered he had a hole in his heart at the same time he got his stroke diagnosis.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a patent foramen ovale, the clinical term for a hole in the heart, occurs in about 1 in 4 people. And like Glover, most people don’t realize they have it until it is discovered during a test for another health issue.

Glover had two surgeries to treat the issues.

A Second Chance

Last year, Glover decided that he would be retiring his alter ego, Childish Gambino. “It really was just like, ‘Oh, it’s done.’ It’s not fulfilling,” Glover admitted. “And I just felt like I didn’t need to build in this way anymore.” But this past year has given the artist a chance to reflect.

When he took the stage at Dodger Stadium, he performed as Childish Gambino once again. “Everybody has two lives, and the second life starts when you realize you have one,” he told his fans in Los Angeles. “You should be living your life how you want. It can only get better.”

Childish Gambino reveals that he had a stroke and a hole was found in his heart and is why he had to stop his tour pic.twitter.com/YxeQYBWDBA

— Dat (@DatDaDatty) November 23, 2025

Find out how hypertension can put you at risk for a stroke.

Resources

American Stroke Association Stroke Symptoms and Warning Signs

Mayo Clinic Patent foramen ovale

The post Donald Glover Revealed He Suffered a Stroke appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Sinners Broke Records and Changed Minds

Predictions were mixed about how well Ryan Coogler’s horror film set in 1932 in Clarksdale, Mississippi, would perform at the box office before its premiere. Warner Bros., the studio that released it, low-balled some of the other predictions, estimating the movie would make $35-40M total, according to Variety. The opening weekend was estimated closer to $48M and it has grossed more than $279M and upwards of $367M worldwide according to BoxOfficeMojo.com.

In a letter to fans, Coogler wrote of another successful collaboration with Michael B. Jordan (who played dual roles):

“Eternal gratitude. My heart is bursting with it. I want to thank each and every one of you who bought a ticket to see Sinners,” read the letter. “Who decided to drive to see the film in different formats. Who bought popcorn and a drink, booked a sitter and carpooled, and stood in the lobby afterward and talked and made a friend. Who changed their work schedules. Who saw the film in groups.”

The movie was recently back in IMAX theaters for special showings around Halloween.

Coogler and Jordan Present the Awards

Coogler told the audience that the movie Sinners is powered by women and the story doesn’t move forward without them. “They are truth-tellers, and perhaps more importantly, they are the beating heart of the story,” the director said.

Mosaku, who previously starred in Lovecraft Country, has been lauded as the UK’s best-kept secret by Jordan. “As [Mosaku] once said, the scariest part of this movie is the feeling that no matter how far you’ve gone, you still might be exactly where you started,” Jordan said in his remarks. “Wunmi, thank you for your gentle wisdom, your love, your support. Tonight, we honor you − and always.”

Coogler thanked Lawson for her artistry, “for us, you were never too much. You were always enough.”

Lawson Talks About the Power of Sisterhood

Jayme Lawson tried her best not to cry too hard, saying, “her momma’s gonna be pissed.” But in their shared acceptance speech, the actress said,  “Mike and Ryan for trusting us with this story and these characters. We love and cherish you both, and we know that we are only up here because of you two.”

“Sinners is a cultural phenomenon because it very remarkably introduced to the world to an authentic communal melting pot. And at its core, it breathed life into some bad women,” she continued.

“When you find your sisters in this industry, you hold on for dear life and you not dare let them go. But not just our sisters in front, but behind the cameras as well. Autumn, Zinzi, Hannah, Ruth, Francine, Pam….a culture was created with this film to see and be seen, and that is rare.”

Mosaku Reminds Us to Keep Showing Up

Mosaku, who was also emotional, said, “To be amongst these fiercely talented women and being acknowledged tonight is an honor and a joy. It is a luminous reminder to keep showing up with honesty and integrity.

“I hope this moment inspires any woman listening to be fertile soil for women to thrive outside of the boxes, labels, and expectations.”

The UK-Nigerian actress continued, “Ryan, the light that was placed in you is undeniable and incandescent.. And we are so grateful for the women who inspire and love you so deeply that you champion by representing them in all their complexities and humanity on and off the camera.”

She thanked Coogler and Ryan for their steadfast collaboration. And noted how their contributions to this industry have expanded the landscape for opportunities for women of color.

Mosaku said, “You both see us and encourage us and all the women in your lives, to take up as much space as possible.”

 

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A Trio of Losses

The year 2019 was an emotionally devastating year for the seven-time Grammy Award-nominated artist. Her husband, esteemed architect Phillip Freelon, died in July from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Mr. Freelon was renowned for creating significant spaces that celebrated our history and culture, most notably as the lead architect for the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Six months later, her sister Debbie passed away from lung cancer. In between those two losses, her dog, Basie, died one month after her husband.

Nnenna called the weeks and months after the funeral, the time for a redefinition of living without your mate. In what ways can we offer support to one another as a community?

“I was supported in ways I didn’t expect. When my husband passed, somebody I don’t know who cut my grass for about six weeks; they never knocked on the door and said, ‘Do you need your grass cut?’ I just looked out the window, and the grass was short. And the edges were done,” she recalled.

“That kind of loving kindness where someone thinks she doesn’t have time to worry about cutting grass. Or you go to your door and there is a beautiful casserole or cake. This is weeks after. These are the kindnesses, the simple things, that we can do.”

Grief Is a Multilayered Process

One of the things Freelon noticed is how grief shows up in us. “I want to suggest that your whole being grieves. Every part of you is grieving. Sometimes we attend to the heart— yes, the heart is broken. Maybe it needs some specific soothing, or a certain practice, music, or being in nature,” she explains.

But your body is also grieving; it needs rest, good rest, not a catnap here and there. [Especially after] waking up at 3:30 am like we all do.

And the grieving brain is constantly trying to process what has happened. Freelon notes that people go over and over things. Mantras, scriptures, or affirmations may help.

“It might be a surprise who shows up as helpful and who just shows up.  Everybody is not helpful,” she suggests.”And you need to create boundaries, especially for those unhelpful folks.”

A Personal Project Becomes a Public Tribute

When Phil was diagnosed with ALS, Nnenna was planning to go back into the studio to record new music. “But when life calls you off the bandstand into boots on the grounds, that’s where you need to be,” she told Dr. Bob Lee in a 2021 interview.

She became his primary caregiver until his death. “How did Freelon find the strength, and even the time, to balance the conception and recording of these tracks with the strenuous demands of caregiving? “Some of [them] were actually recorded in a quiet space when I had a moment,” she told Jazz Times via Zoom from her Durham, North Carolina home.”

Still, the project wasn’t meant for public consumption. Freelon doubted whether it was good enough to put out. But those who heard it found it powerful. They convinced her to finish the project. Time Traveler (Origin), released in 2021, her 11th studio album, was her first in a decade. Then, it was nominated for a 2022 Grammy.

“This is the mystery and the divine energy of it. I wasn’t sure I could sing, honestly. Singing is a very emotional enterprise, very personal, and I was broken,” she told Lee.

“I also realized I had to be willing to be vulnerable, to trust my audience, and myself enough that whatever came up and out, if it was true and authentic, it was going to be alright.”

Freelon explained that she had to go inside her grief and find the joy inside her pain.

Big Love, Big Loss, Big Impact

It would take years before Freelon has the other two elements for the trilogy.

“I tried being strong, I tried my faith, and all the things the older women in my life say worked.  And none of them worked for me. “What did work was tarrying with my grief,<> improvising with my grief, sitting still long enough to let those feelings wash through me, changing the key,” the singer and composer said.”

“That’s something I learned on the bandstand. Sometimes you’ve got to change the key. Swing with the rhythms. Don’t fight it. And if you feel some kind of way, go somewhere and sit down. Don’t try to be strong. Your children need to see you fall apart. They need to know you are human. Let them see your tears flow.”

It was from that perspective, the things she learned as a jazz musician, that the next two projects were born. The book Beneath the Skin of Sorrow, Improvisations on Loss, and the album Beneath the Skin.

The book is created like a large movement in four sections: Round Midnight, Stolen Moments, A Love Supreme, and Time Traveler. Each contains a collection of poems,  memoirs, meditations, and recipes.

Freelon wrote the book she wished she had in the early days of her grief journey. It’s a smallish book, something to put on your nightstand, or in your purse; It isn’t a “how to do grief” book. “I am writing from a jazz woman’s perspective and also a universal perspective; I wrote that book, and I hope it can accompany people on their journey, no matter what it is,” she said.

The Language of Grief

While at a speaking engagement, the singer, still dissatisfied with the word “widow,” polled the audience for an alternative word. “Somebody raised their hand and said, ‘I want to suggest the word window. You are now a window into another world. You see things that others cannot see.’ And it almost brought me to tears,” Freelon says.

“That’s exactly what we are. Windows [some of us] may be stained glass, or may have a crack or two, may not be totally clear, may have some smudges on it, but we are windows. We are beautiful, black windows.”

The Widow Song

But yet in Beneath the Skin, an album of all original compositions, she has included The Widow Song. Both of those projects are about what lies underneath the surface of things.

“Because one of the things I had to realize is that I have this whole world underneath the veneer of sorrow,” the singer said. “You’re at the funeral, there are tears, a veil over your face, and your head is bowed. But if we allow ourselves to continue to be curious about the things that can grow from grief.”

“You were given a tough pill to swallow. You’re going to have to decide how you want to walk from that point forward.” Freelon continued.

Beneath the Skin and the book are a part of the trilogy that started with Time Traveler. The singer agrees, “It’s a continuation of the journey. And it’s, it’s interesting. Sometimes you create art, and sometimes art creates you.”

The post Nnenna Freelon Finds Her Widow Song appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What followed changed everything. The pace of her days. The demands on her body. Her sense of control. But now she’s telling the story herself. She’s a breast cancer survivor, and she’s still here.

The Moment She Feared Had Arrived

Toks had gone years without a full mammogram. Between breastfeeding and the demands of daily life, it stayed on the back burner. After several reminders, her OBGYN became more direct and told her it was time to stop waiting. So, she went.

During the scan, doctors found calcifications. These are tiny calcium deposits that can form in breast tissue. While often harmless, certain patterns can signal early signs of cancer. A biopsy confirmed it in August 2022.

“I was told I had stage zero triple negative breast cancer,” she said.

Triple-negative breast cancer is one of the most aggressive types. According to the American Cancer Society, it grows quickly and does not respond to hormone therapies because it lacks three common receptors. That limits treatment options and increases the risk of recurrence. Within three weeks, her cancer had already advanced to stage one.

Toks had always feared cancer. It ran deep on her mother’s side with diagnoses across generations. Her father’s side, rooted in Nigeria, had fewer known cases, though she believes there may have been more that went unnamed. So when the biopsy confirmed triple-negative breast cancer, she wasn’t shocked.

“I had been terrified to get cancer my whole life,” she said. “I was almost relieved, honestly, to just know which one it was and get it done.”

Then Came the Reality Check

At just 46 years old, Toks had to shift into survival mode. In September, weeks after her diagnosis, she began treatment with a lumpectomy and radiation. A lumpectomy removes the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue. But when the pathology came back, the margins were not clear. That meant cancer cells were still present at the edges. She would need more surgery and chemotherapy.

Before starting chemo, she tried one round of egg fertilization. She and her husband had hoped for a second child. But her gynecologist stepped in.

“He’s like, stop it. Triple negative moves so quickly you’re gonna die,” she said. “I was like, okay, all right, Jesus.”

From Lumpectomy to Mastectomy

After another surgery with no clean margins, her oncological surgeon recommended a mastectomy. A mastectomy removes the entire breast to prevent further spread. Toks chose to remove both.

“She was like, listen, none of this is showing in any of the imaging we did,” she recalled. “We’re not seeing any of what we’re taking out of your body, so it’s making us really nervous.”

She began chemotherapy in early November, just after wrapping Fatal Attraction. The treatment was intense. Every three weeks, she returned for another round.

“I did four rounds of very strong chemo,” said Toks. “A week after I stopped chemo, I started working on Frasier.”

To help protect her hair, she used cold capping. The process involves cooling the scalp during chemotherapy to reduce hair loss, and it worked. Toks was able to keep about 50 percent of her hair.

The Circle That Held Her

Toks kept working, not to prove anything, but because it helped her feel like herself. Work was also essential to Tok’s healing.

“My husband was picking me up from work. My mother was dropping me off,” she said. “I had tons of people helping me carry things. That was a little difficult because I couldn’t carry my kid for a really long time.”

Her sister, best friend, and nanny helped care for her son. Insurance paperwork was handled by her financial manager. On set, her team made space for her to rest when she needed it.

“Sometimes I was like, I need to go upstairs and just rest for 25 minutes,” she said. “And they’d be like, yeah, no worries, we’ll make time for you.”

Parenting Through Treatment

While navigating surgeries and chemotherapy, Toks was also parenting a young child. Her son was still small and still used to their routines. She had to explain why things were changing, why she couldn’t carry him, why their time together looked different.

“We used to call my boobs my boo boos,” she said. “I said, so we can’t do boo boo time anymore, and he was sad, but he understood.”

She approached those conversations with honesty and compassion. She didn’t hide what was happening, but she didn’t overwhelm him either.

“I keep in mind that my kid is new here,” she explained. “I don’t put things on him that he doesn’t deserve.”

Her son responded with kindness. He would come in to chat, then tuck her into bed.

“He’d be like, Mommy, you need your rest,” he’d say.

She believes children know when something is wrong, even if no one tells them.

“I feel like you’re actually just making them more scared and anxious because they don’t know what the thing is,” she said.

Rest Is a Right

Toks spoke directly to the pressure Black women face to keep going no matter what. She spoke about how Black communities are among the most capable in the world.

“Especially Black women. We are versatile, good at problem solving and hard working. And we are insanely intelligent.”

She knows how deeply that pressure can affect health.

“One of the reasons that Black people get sick so much is that we don’t rest,” she said. “We have to stop believing the myth that rest equals laziness.”

A Community Lifeline

For Toks, healing was never just about her body. It was about being part of something larger. She spoke openly about the realities Black people face, and the strength that comes from community.

“I feel like Black people are placed in a position of being stressed out and not being able to give our families what they need,” she said. “We are placed in a position of not being able to live in clean areas, not being able to afford healthy food, not being able to afford health care, not being able to afford to take time off work.”

She named the systems that create those conditions. But she also named the power our communities hold.

“I think that we need to start talking to each other,” she said. “We need to start asking questions. We need to start sharing information.”

Advocacy Begins with Access

Toks now works with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. She is using her voice to push for better access, better care, and better outcomes for Black women.

“Almost half of the women who are diagnosed with breast cancer are going to be Black women,” she said. “And one of the reasons for that is the disparity in what is available to us. We are placed in a position of being stressed out and not being able to give our families what they need.”

She has seen the consequences of delayed care and poor insurance firsthand. People she loves have waited far too long for the imaging and procedures they needed. She knows how quickly diseases can spread and how dangerous those delays can be.
She encourages people to ask questions, share what they learn, and help each other navigate the system.

“You need to figure out, as young as you possibly can, what your plan for your health care is,” she said. “If you’re going to somebody and you don’t feel heard, or you feel dismissed, or you feel like you can never get an appointment, find somebody else.”

And she wants Black women to know they matter.

“You need to see yourself and your life as precious,” she said. “We take care of so many other people. We have to be healthy too. Otherwise, we can’t take care of everybody else.”

Resources:

Triple-negative Breast Cancer | Details, Diagnosis, and Signs | American Cancer Society

Breast Cancer Research Foundation | BCRF

Will Scalp Cooling Save Your Hair During Cancer Treatment?

The post Actress & Activist Toks Olagundoye on Surviving Breast Cancer appeared first on Black Health Matters.

A Nonstop Schedule

Her fiancé Jesse Collins, who runs his eponymous production company, Jesse Collins Entertainment, has overseen mega events including the Super Bowl Halftime Show, the BET Awards, and more. Together, they’ve built careers on precision and performance.

“We both work hard and don’t always take care of ourselves the way we should,” she explained to People. “And sad to say, several of our friends have dropped dead of heart attacks because it’s a high-stress world. Jesse started his own company after his boss, John Cossette, died of a massive heart attack, so there’s always been that fear.”

So when she saw the post, she looked up the company and booked an appointment for the two of them.

Prenuvo’s scans range from $2,500 to $4,500, and appointments can take months to secure. Dionne booked two, one for herself and one for Jesse. At the time, she was more concerned about him.

They got scanned in March 2024. Jesse’s came back healthy. Unfortunately, Dionne did not.

Dionne Had No Symptoms

Her scan revealed a large mass in her right lung. The technician told her to contact a pulmonologist right away. A pulmonologist is a doctor who specializes in lung health, and even they were initially skeptical. Dionne had no symptoms. She didn’t smoke. It didn’t add up.

Still, she followed through. First came a chest X-ray, then a PET/CT scan. Unlike a regular scan, this one shows how tissues and organs are functioning, not just how they look. The results confirmed that the mass was active, and that meant cancer was likely. She was sent for a biopsy, where doctors removed a small piece of tissue to test under a microscope.

The diagnosis was confirmed by Dr. Graeme Rosenberg, a thoracic surgeon at USC. It was lung cancer, Stage 3.

“Most lung cancers are found by accident in the non-smoking population,” Rosenberg told People.

During surgery, doctors found that the cancer had already reached one of Dionne’s lymph nodes. The spread was microscopic, too small to appear on scans, but it changed her diagnosis. She was officially considered stage 3, despite having no symptoms and no visible warning signs.

Her surgeon told her they had acted just in time. A few months later, the cancer might have moved further, limiting her treatment options or removing them altogether.

“If you had found this six months later, we’d be talking about how to make the rest of your life comfortable,” Dionne recalled being told. “I would’ve died, for sure.”

She underwent robotic-assisted surgery using the Da Vinci system, which resulted in part of her lung being removed. The operation was a turning point. It gave her a chance to recover before the cancer could spread further.

Why Lung Cancer Gets Missed

Dionne’s story isn’t rare. It’s just rarely caught. Lung cancer is still widely seen as a smoker’s disease, but that assumption leaves too many people overlooked. According to the American Cancer Society, early-stage lung cancer often comes without symptoms. And when signs do appear, they’re easy to dismiss. A lingering cough. A little wheezing. Fatigue that feels like stress. For Dionne, there was nothing. No warning. Just a scan that saw what she couldn’t feel.

If There Had Been a Sign

Some of the earliest signs of lung cancer can include:

• A persistent cough.
• Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or laughing.
• Shortness of breath or wheezing.
• Hoarseness or voice changes.
• Frequent respiratory infections.
• Unexplained fatigue or weight loss.

Dionne had none of these. No cough, no fatigue, no unexplained weight loss. By all accounts, she was fine until the scan said otherwise.

Recovery Wasn’t Pretty

The surgery was successful, but the recovery was difficult. Dionne, known for her independence and Type-A energy, had to rely on her mother for basic care. “My mom having to help me in the bathroom and wipe me was insane,” she recalled. Her fiancé Jesse became her full-time support system, keeping everything running while she healed. “It was amazing how he instantly went into support mode. Nothing mattered besides making sure I was okay and got through this.”

Instead of chemotherapy, Dionne qualified for a targeted drug therapy. She swallows one pill daily and schedules lung scans every six months. So far, everything has been clear.

In April 2025, Dionne ran the Paris Marathon. It was her way of reclaiming her body and her life.

“I was like, ‘I’m going to run this Paris marathon,'” she said, “just to prove to myself that I could, a year after my surgery and with [only a portion] of my right lung.”

From Survivor to Advocate

Now, Dionne is working with Rosenberg to launch a foundation focused on early lung cancer detection. She also got the chance to thank Kardashian directly. Her team reached out, and Kardashian responded with a post and a kind message. For Dionne, it was a meaningful moment. She told People that the post had ultimately led to her diagnosis and treatment, and she considers it life-saving.

A Warning to Black Women

The experience reshaped how Dionne thinks about health and visibility. She had always pushed through, showing up even when rest might have served her better. But this time, she paused and listened to her body. And it made all the difference.

Resources:

Emmy Producer Discovers Stage 3 Cancer After Prenuvo Body Scan (Exclusive)

Comprehensive whole body MRI scan for preventative care | Prenuvo

Lung Cancer Signs & Symptoms | American Cancer Society

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He Reveals His Mental Health Diagnoses in a New Book

The rapper, whose real name is Radric Davis, recently released a book titled Episodes: The Diary of a Recovering Mad Man (Simon & Schuster). It was Co-written with Kathy Iandoli. Within its pages, the rapper reveals he has been diagnosed with “bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.” It is part of a growing canon of texts in hip-hop culture that address mental health-related stressors.

Davis touched on his mental health struggles in his previous book, The Autobiography of Gucci Mane, but his latest book goes into his challenges in graphic detail. He is not the only artist sharing his struggles. Big Sean co-authored Go Higher: Five Practices for Purpose, Success, and Inner Peace with Jay Shetty earlier this year. Juicy J talked about his mental health in his 2023 book Chronicles of the Juice Man: A Memoir.

Understanding Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness that heavily impacts one’s thoughts and behavior. “Schizophrenia is one of the top 15 leading causes of disability worldwide,” according to the National Institute of Mental Health.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

“Bipolar disorder (formerly called manic-depressive illness or manic depression) is a mental illness that causes clear shifts in a person’s mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration,” per the National Institute of Mental Health.

Both Conditions Face Intense Stigma

Like anxiety and depression, there can be long periods of time where a person with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia does not have an episode. While generalized anxiety disorder and depression are more frequently discussed by those in the limelight, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are less visible.

The couple shared that Davis has not had a full-blown episode in years.

“The stigma is stronger for those diagnoses than, say, anxiety or depression, even though depression and anxiety can also be very debilitating. It’s not always perceived with the same lens,” said Cassandra Raphael, MD, MPH.

“There is a lot of stigma that comes with those classes of diagnosis with schizophrenia and bipolar,” said Stacy McCall-Martin, LMFT, DSW-C, a therapist with firsthand clinical experience working with people facing the condition.

“Specifically in the Black community,” added Martin. “We are coming from lineages where we don’t talk about these types of things.”

Recently, Cardi B, who revealed her own bouts with depression during a press run for Am I The Drama?, shamed Nicki Minaj by alleging she had been diagnosed with it. “Quiet as kept, the truth is you have been diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder for almost 9 years,” she wrote in a post on X, according to Hot 97. The alleged diagnoses were a weapon in their ongoing social media war.

Gucci Gets Vulnerable

The Breakfast Club host Charlemagne Tha God praised Radric for his extreme vulnerability when Radric opened up about his symptoms.

“You dealing with stuff like you’re hearing voices,” he said. Paranoia can accompany the symptoms. “I might think that you trying to fight me you ain’t even did nothing,” he continued. “That’s what I used to deal with.” “I might think that you trying to fight me you ain’t even did nothing,” he continued. “That’s what I used to deal with.”[sic]

Keyshia, a celebrated beauty mogul in her own right, confirmed the severity of the episodes her husband faces. “It was really, really bad. It’s really sad because you’re seeing someone you don’t know,” she said.

She clarified that she was not afraid of her husband. She also explained that she insists the couple avoid specific environments during Davis’ episodes, including tall buildings and high balconies, out of concern that he might commit an act of self-harm.

“I’m like, is he going to jump? Is the voice going to tell him to jump?” said Keyshia. “That’s the scary part. Not me being scared of him hurting me.”

Was the interview Reminiscent of the one with Mike Tyson, Robin Givens, and Barbara Walters?

Some on social media compared the interview with the 1988 interview Mike Tyson and Robin Givens gave to Barbara Walters during their brief marriage. Givens shed light on Tyson’s mental health at the time and expressed concerns that he might self-harm.

“He’s got a side to him that’s scary,” Givens told Walters then. “Michael is a manic depressive.” Bipolar disorder was previously referred to as manic depressive disorder. The term has since been phased out in the medical field.

What kinds of Treatments are available for Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disease?

Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder can be treated with a combination of therapy and medications. “It cannot go unmedicated, and the quicker the better,” said Keyshia during the interview.

“Therapy and medication. Those two go hand in hand,” confirmed Martin.

Access to these treatments is not equitable due to disparities in the healthcare system. “People who are most impacted living with the symptoms are not getting the care that they need,” said Martin. “The ones that are out on the margin don’t have those resources.” How

Have Gucci Mane’s Mental Health Challenges Shown Up In The Public Eye?

Both diagnoses are marked by erratic behavior. Davis has shown this repeatedly in his conduct on social media, where he has made accusations and called out people in the industry. There are now family plans in place to prevent this from happening and protect his privacy.

How Does Keyshia Ka’oir Davis Support Her Husband Through Episodes?

Keyshia explained how she helps protect her husband during an episode. “Stress is a trigger, and stress brings on episodes. So, I don’t allow any stress,” she said. She manages their businesses and intervenes to limit their exposure to stressful situations.

Stress has routinely been linked to aggravating bouts of psychosis.

“I have a system,” Ka’oir told The Breakfast Club. “I take his apps off his phone. First thing I do, I delete Instagram. I delete everything. Even if I gotta change his password, I’m changing it because I don’t need the public to know he’s having an episode.”

McCall-Martin confirmed that having a go-to protocol is useful. “It’s absolutely imperative to have a plan or pre-plan in place,” she said.

“Having a structured plan in place for the caretaker and for the person experiencing the symptoms helps to keep things as stable as possible around them.”

Raphael emphasized the importance of consulting with the person you are caring for while they are well. “Establish that plan with your loved one,” she recommended, noting that they may not have the “insight” necessary to do so in the midst of an episode.

“Once you’ve had your first break or your first manic episode, your first break of psychosis, then you know that. ‘Okay, this can happen to me.’ And hopefully, as a final and essential part of the process of recovering from that episode, is establishing a plan,” she continued.

What Kind Of Support Do Caregivers Need?

Bipolar disorder does not only affect the individual—it also places a significant burden on caregivers and family members,” according to a 2025 article from Frontiers in Psychology.

The Breakfast Club asked Keyshia how she cares for her mental health, and she disclosed that she does not have a therapist. McCall-Martin advises that caregivers routinely receive mental health treatment.

“There’s a large possibility of burnout when it comes to providing care for someone,” she said. “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” added Raphael.

“You want your relative to be well, and you invest wholly into that project, but it can’t come at the cost of your own mental health, so you need to sleep well. You need to eat well. You need to be able to take a break when you need to take a break.”

Resources

National Institute of Health: Schizophrenia

National Institute of Health: Bipolar Disorder

Community Mental Health Journal

Nature.com

Frontiers in Psychology

The post How Gucci Mane & Keyshia Ka’oir Manage His Mental Health appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Wake-Up Call

In 2011, Rick Ross suffered two seizures within six hours. One happened mid-flight and forced his private jet to make an emergency landing. At the time, he reportedly 350 pounds, slept just three hours a night, and was eating 24-ounce steaks a 4 a.m., according to PEOPLE. His doctor told him that if he did not change his lifestyle, he might not survive.

Building a Routine That Worked

Ross began working with a Reebok trainer and developed a CrossFit-inspired workout that he called “RossFit.” His routine includes a warm-up jog followed by five exercise stations such as deadlifts and pushups. He trains for 30 minutes, four days a week. He also started working out with friends to stay motivated.

According to XXL, Ross told Men’s Health, “I’m happy. I’m still losing weight, and now I’m starting to build hard muscle in places.”

Ross didn’t cut everything out at once. He knew that quitting all the foods he loved would only backfire, so he made gradual changes instead. That approach helped him stick with it and avoid falling back into old habits.

Eating With Intention

Ross did not eliminate fast food entirely. He told PEOPLE that he still eats at places like Checkers and Wingstop, but only between noon and 5 p.m., and only two or three days a week. The rest of the time, he works with a chef to prepare meals that are healthy and satisfying.

“My advice for anyone looking to lose weight is to not make it feel like a job,” he said. “You’ve got to enjoy it.”

Sleep became a priority as well. Ross realized that rest was just as important as food and movement, especially after years of pushing through exhaustion.

More Than a Decade Later

By 2025, Ross has maintained a weight loss of at least 75 pounds. Some estimates place the total closer to 100. He continues to train, eat intentionally, and speak publicly about the importance of health. His transformation has sparked broader conversations about wellness among Black men, especially in communities where structural barriers delay diagnosis and treatment.

Ross’s journey began with fear and moved through trial and error. He didn’t set out to meet a goal on the scale. He focused on building a routine that felt possible. Over time, that routine became a life that supports him and it’s still unfolding.

Resources:

Rapper Rick Ross Reveals How He Lost 75 Lbs. to Save His Life After His Seizures

Rick Ross Reveals How Much Weight He Lost to Avoid Seizures

The post Inside Rick Ross’s Health Transformation appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What She Told Cam Newton

K. Michelle joined Cam Newton on his Funky Friday podcast for a conversation that felt honest and unfiltered. They talked about music, body image, and the years she spent recovering from cosmetic procedures.

When Cam asked what she wanted people to know, she didn’t hesitate. “I’m not against plastic surgery. Do your research. Do what you need to do if that is for you,” she said. “But no amount of plastic surgery is going to make you love yourself anymore.”

She described what it was like to have one of the most talked-about bodies in the industry while quietly dealing with pain. “I had the hugest [butt] in life. I could not walk,” she said. “People magazine said I had one of the best bodies ever. That almost cost me my life.”
She explained that once silicone is injected, it doesn’t leave.

“You can take out a breast implant. You can take out things like that. But once you inject silicone shots into your body, that is motor oil that forever lives in your body.” She called it a permanent decision for a temporary fix.

The conversation also touched on shifting beauty standards. K. Michelle is no stranger to shifting trends, especially when it comes to the body types that have been favored over the decades. The truth is, it moves fast and rarely makes room for those who made permanent choices to fit in. These days, she consistently emphasizes the importance of clarity before going on the table.

How It Started

Her honesty didn’t start with Funky Friday. K. Michelle has long been vocal about what her body’s been through.

“I had just got a new record deal, and I felt like the bigger the butt, the bigger the career,” she told Essence in 2022. “I already had a big butt. It was just ridiculous.”

In 2012, she underwent illegal silicone injections to enhance her hips and butt. “I wanted to look like a Coke bottle,” she told PEOPLE. She had already had her breasts augmented and fat transferred from her stomach to her rear. When she learned that one of her favorite rappers had done it, she decided to go through with the injections, despite knowing the man in Atlanta offering them wasn’t a licensed doctor.

For a while, she was happy with the results. Her career gained momentum, and she was cast on Love and Hip Hop. But in 2017, her body began to break down. She experienced migraines, fatigue, and pain in her back and legs. Doctors initially suspected lupus before discovering that the silicone had spread through her tissue and was threatening her ability to walk.

She tried liposuction, hoping it would remove the material. Instead, it pushed the silicone further. After a few performances on tour, she was rushed to the emergency room.

Rebuilding Her Body, Reclaiming Her Voice

What followed was a long and painful recovery including multiple surgeries, two blood transfusions, and the removal of dead tissue. Speaking with PEOPLE, she explained, “I had these lumps, and I was very disfigured.

Her body was inflamed, her mobility was compromised, and the procedures were physically and emotionally draining. She spent months healing, adjusting to a body that no longer matched the image she once pursued. The experience forced her to slow down, reflect, and begin speaking publicly about what she had endured.

In her 2022 appearance on the Tamron Hall Show, K. Michelle described the physical toll of removing illegal silicone injections. She began the process of reclaiming her health and removing the foreign substances from her body, a journey that would span years and multiple surgeries.

“It took me about 13 surgeries later in three years.” she said.

Filming Her Truth

In 2022, K. Michelle launched My Killer Body with K. Michelle on Lifetime. The show featured real people dealing with botched procedures, emotional trauma, and the aftermath of chasing beauty. It also documented her own recovery and the realities of living with permanent damage.

The show challenges how beauty is presented online, where final images rarely reflect the risk or recovery behind them.

Healing With Honesty

Recovery is ongoing. K. Michelle still struggles with the physical and emotional impact of her surgeries. “Some days, I’m like, I’m never getting back on that table,” she told Essence. “But then I might put on something, and a dent from my reconstruction is there, and I say, I’m going to get this fixed. I’m human. I go back and forth.”

She’s faced speculation about her appearance, with fans assuming she’s had more work done. But she emphasizes that her focus is on health, not perfection.

“I feel hopeful, and I feel happy to be healthy and able to function,” she said. “I think that brings another beauty within itself.”

Beauty Isn’t Always Easy

K. Michelle’s story reframes the idea of beauty. She isn’t opposed to cosmetic surgery. What she challenges is the misinformation and lack of transparency that often surround it. Her experience has become a platform for pushing safer, more honest conversations about body modification, especially in communities where access to safe care is limited. She urges people to look beyond the polished results and understand the risks, recovery, and the emotional toll.

For her, surgery is not a casual choice. It requires research, preparation, and a clear understanding of what’s at stake. You only get one body, and it deserves to be protected.

Resources:

K. Michelle & Cam get BRUTALLY honest about Love, Regret, Dating Mistakes & Country Music Truths

With ‘My Killer Body,’ K. Michelle Wants To Tell ‘The Whole Truth’ About Plastic Surgery | Essence

K. Michelle Says Removing Butt Injections Was ‘Scary’

K. Michelle Had to Get 13 Operations to Remove Botched Silicone Injections

Watch My Killer Body with K. Michelle Full Episodes, Video & More | Lifetime

The post K. Michelle Opens Up About the Toll of Cosmetic Surgery appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Family’s Statement

According to Rolling Stone “The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life … After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home, departing this life today, October 14th, 2025,” his family said in a statement. “We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind.  We ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time, but invite you all to join us in mourning his passing while also celebrating the gift of song that he has left for the world.”

D’Angelo Developed His Talents Early

Born in Richmond, VA, he learned to play the piano before age five in church and played for his grandfather, who pastored a Pentecostal church. By sixteen, he had formed two different singing groups, according to People: Three of a Kind and Michael Archer, and Precise. He tried out for Amateur Night at the Apollo twice, the first time he didn’t win. The second time, he took his prize money and invested in equipment, which eventually led to his Brown Sugar record deal.

He Was Part of the Soulquarians

The Soulquarians were a loose collective of singers, musicians, and producers that included J Dilla, QuestLove, Erykah Badu, and Common. They were at the forefront of a movement that charted new paths in soul, R&B, and hip-hop while maintaining a deep admiration for the past.

His Music was a More Sensuous Version of 70s Soul.

In the New York Times, Ben Sisario wrote, “In the years leading up to his triumph with the 2000 album ‘Voodoo,” D’Angelo was a leading light of the era’s revolution in soul music, melding the sweetly seductive melodies of classic singers like Al Green and Marvin Gaye with the beats and urgency of hip-hop.

His biggest songs, like “Lady,” “Brown Sugar,” and “Untitled (How Does It Feel),” were hailed as supreme examples of the trend, which sought not a revival of Black pop traditions but a transformation of them.

He Was Nominated For 14 Grammys and Won Four

D’Angelo was nominated for 14 Grammy awards and won 4. Best R&B Album for Voodoo, Best R&B Album for Black Messiah. He also won Best R&B Vocal Performance for “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” and Best R&B Song for Black Messiah’s “Really Love.”

Although “Untitled” won him awards, the sexy video came with unintended consequences. This led to him being named a sex symbol, a breakdown, depression, alcohol, drugs, rehab, and seclusion for periods. But he came back.

Our sincere condolences go out to his family.

About Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the pancreas. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is the most common type of pancreatic cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that about 67,440 people (34,950 men and 32,490 women) will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The pancreas is deep in the body so it is difficult to find early.

The post R&B Maestro D’Angelo Has Passed Away at 51 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Why They Chose Megan

Megan Thee Stallion, whose real name is Megan Pete, has shared about her mental health struggles in her work and during interviews. The hot girl coach is willing to share her experiences to help others realize that hope lives on the other side of their challenges. “I’m honored to receive this year’s Mental Health Champion award from The Trevor Project,” Pete said. “My goal has always been to use my platform to help break stigmas around mental health and provide resources for those seeking safe spaces to have honest and heartfelt conversations. Mental health impacts all of us, so it’s important to lead with love and empathy. I’m grateful for organizations like The Trevor Project that are committed to spreading awareness and supporting our LGBTQ+ youth in powerful ways.”

What is The Trevor Project?

The Trevor Project is an organization dedicated to eliminating suicide among LGBTQ+ young people. It provides counseling and research aimed to help those fighting through stigma, discrimination, and internalized homophobia. Their previous mental health champions of the year include Janelle Monáe and Lil Nas X. “Suicide rates among persons aged 10–24 years increased significantly during 2018–2021 among Black persons,” according to a 2023 report from the CDC. The Journal of Aggression and Violent Behavior found that “Lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth are three times more likely than heterosexual youth to attempt suicide” in 2022.

The Work That Megan Does

Pete does more than pay lip service to the importance of mental health. She partnered with the state of California to remind young people that they are not a burden for asking for help.

She develops digital tools that the everyday person can turn to for guidance. Those concrete resources help everyday people find where they can get help.

The Trevor Project Reflects on Megan’s Work

“Megan Thee Stallion is a mental health champion in every sense of the word,” said Jaymes Black, CEO of The Trevor Project, about choosing to honor Pete’s consistent work. “Her raw honesty, bold advocacy, and deep love for her community make her an extraordinary role model – particularly for Black LGBTQ+ youth, who face some of the highest rates of discrimination, mental health challenges, and suicide risk. Megan’s activism doesn’t just stop at words; she builds real, tangible resources for vulnerable communities that are too often overlooked or left behind. As a queer Black person, I wish I had someone like Megan to look up to when I was growing up. Her courage, her authenticity, and her unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy will echo for generations. The Trevor Project is proud to honor her incredible impact, especially at a time when LGBTQ+ young people are being stripped of life-saving resources. Megan Thee Stallion’s voice is not just powerful. It’s essential.”

She’s Not Just Dropping Bars, There Are Real Life Resources Available For Her Hotties

Her site Bad Bitches Have Bad Days Too features directories for therapy providers, community helplines, and helpful podcasts. The site derived its name from lyrics to the Megan Thee Stallion track “Anxiety.”

The song features the lyrics “All I really wanna hear is ‘it’ll be okay’/ Bounce back ’cause a bad b***ch can have bad days” and “They keep sayin’ I should get help/ But I don’t even know what I need/They keep sayin’ speak your truth/And at the same time say they don’t believe.”

She created the Pete & Thomas Foundation to promote healthcare access for all.

According to a 2023 article in the Journal of Psychiatric Annals, “Black people comprise 13% of the United States population, yet comprise nearly 20% of those who are living with mental illness,” and “Black people are disproportionately affected by mental illness, including depression.”

Megan is Working to Break Stigmas Around Mental Health in the Rap Community

Discussions about mental health in the rap community have become more prominent in recent years. Cardi B and Big Sean have talked about how depression has negatively impacted their careers. Lil’ Jon released an album of affirmations designed to help listeners heal their minds and bodies.

Mental health stigma affects all communities, but it shows up in distinct ways in the Black community. Pete acknowledged this during a PSA for the Ad Council’s “Seize the Awkward” campaign, an initiative designed to help young people share information about their mental health so they can get help.

“I’ve always been told I gotta be strong. Thick-skinned. Stiff upper lip. Tough as nails. But to be everything for everybody – it wears on you. Black doesn’t crack, they say. But it can. I can. We all can. Y’all, it’s okay not to be okay. Reach out to a friend if you see them going through it. No matter who you are, being vulnerable is what makes us whole,” she said.

Resources

CDC: Notes From the Field

The Journal of Aggression and Violent Behavior

Bad Bitches Have Bad Days Too

Journal of Psychiatric Annals

The post Megan Thee Stallion Is Mental Health Champion of the Year appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Burton’s Reading Rainbow won more than 250 Awards. Among them are 26 Emmys and a Peabody Award, and sparked a love of books in generations of children.

If You Don’t Know Mychal the Librarian

Mychal, a librarian at the Solano County Library in Dixon, California,  endeared himself to his growing following by simply being himself, sharing his passions for his vocation, and being vulnerable about his mental health struggles. He was an advocate for visiting local libraries, not only taking out books but also using the services.

 

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He offered positive mental health messages. While sometimes sharing his own struggles.

 

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Mychal became known for his greetings to the extent that people started making drawings to give to him.

 

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But as his notoriety grew, the online bullies and trolls wouldn’t leave him alone. And those who want to ban books would show up at his library to harass him. All of that wasn’t good for his mental health. He left his full-time job, but he has never stopped spreading the joy that can be found in libraries.

About the Reading Rainbow 4-Part Reboot

The new Reading Rainbow follows a similar format to the previous iteration. This is a case of “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” According to NPR, Buffalo Toronto Public Media, which co-produced the original series in 1983, also co-produced the new season. It will only run for four episodes.

It appears that when Burton attempted to reboot himself, issues arose between the two companies. We won’t hold that against Mychal.

 

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But in the spirit of sparking the joy of reading, here is the trailer, and some books that we think your little one will love:

Chef Carla Hall has a new picture book, Carla and the Tin Can Cake Party, about a game of dress-up gone wrong at the grandparents’ house, with a lesson learned about a family recipe.

In Dorethea Taylor’s There’s a Dragon in My Closet, a young boy blames all his misdeeds on an imaginary dragon in his closet.

Finally, get this duo by the late Faith Ringgold. Her classic Tar Beach, which features Cassie Louise Lightfoot’s magical wish for freedom, is told from the rooftop of her Harlem apartment building, also known as “Tar Beach.”  In Cassie’s Word Quilt, the follow-up, she offers readers a behind-the-scenes look at her day-to-day life—from her home to her neighborhood, school, and more. At every stop, Cassie is teaching them new words, ones they’ve never heard before.

And if you want to give your child a special treat, check out Ms. Ringgold reading Tar Beach on the original Reading Rainbow below.

Embed Video

Start at

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This year, he’s taking that work to a new level through national partnerships and candid storytelling that explores what it’s really like to live with Crohn’s.

What Is Crohn’s Disease?

Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can cause severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue, according to the Mayo Clinic. It’s an unpredictable illness that can flare up without warning, making everyday life a constant balancing act between managing symptoms and trying to lead a normal life.

From Crisis to Campaign

In September 2025, Williams partnered with AbbVie to launch Beyond a Gut Feeling, a national campaign aimed at breaking the stigma around gastrointestinal health. In the campaign video, he uses a chaotic film set as a metaphor for uncontrolled IBD. “You wouldn’t put up with an out-of-control video like this,” he says. “So why put up with uncontrolled IBD?”

The campaign marks a turning point in Williams’ journey with Crohn’s disease, a condition he didn’t fully understand until it nearly cost him his life. Diagnosed in his early 20s, he spent years pushing through symptoms while trying to stay healthy and build muscle. By 24, he was in crisis. “It just crashed. Everything shut down,” he told Men’s Health. Emergency surgery removed six inches of his lower intestine, but the damage was too severe. His intestines perforated, he went septic, and doctors raced him back into surgery.

For months, he relied on a feeding system that delivered nutrients directly into his veins and used an ostomy bag. At one point, Williams weighed just 105 pounds and was too weak to stand.

That experience reshaped how he thinks about health. In the Beyond a Gut Feeling campaign video, he reflected, ” I looked at it a lot as, well, my abdomen hurts right now. I need that to stop hurting so I can do my job,” he says. “Where the actual answer is, something’s wrong here. I need to figure out what that is.”

For Williams, recovery was physical and emotional. Williams had to reevaluate his relationship with wellness and happiness. He gave up alcohol, red meat, and coffee to reduce flare-ups. “Symptom management is important for feeling better, but it does not change the course of the disease,” he explains. “That’s why I’m focusing on long-term goals like visible improvement of the lining of the intestinal tract.”

Now in remission, Williams is sharing what he’s learned. He used to brush off his own symptoms and push through the pain just to get through the day. That approach nearly cost him everything. Now he pays attention, and he wants people to know that being well comes first.

Brotherly Wellness

Crohn’s doesn’t just affect one person; it reshapes routines and relationships. In the same interview with Men’s Health, Tyler revealed that his younger brother Tyrel also has Crohn’s disease. Tyrel’s first flare-up happened in early 2020. Since then, the brothers have focused on their health together, trading support and staying honest about what their bodies need.

“I had to learn how to stop making dramatic changes quickly and develop a better relationship with my body,” said Tyler. This journey has strengthened their bond, allowing Tyler to inspire others and offer support and empathy to those facing similar circumstances.

Awareness

It’s important to note that while Crohn’s disease is more common in non-Hispanic White populations, the rates of hospitalization and death are disproportionately higher within the Black community. According to the CDC, the prevalence of Crohn’s disease among non-Hispanic Black individuals is about 0.5%. Still, the rates of hospitalization and death are much higher compared to other racial groups. This highlights the specific hardships our community faces due to systemic disparities. Raising awareness is a valuable step we can all take toward improving our individual and collective health.

Here are some common symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease, according to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation:

• Persistent diarrhea.
• Rectal bleeding.
• Urgent need to move bowels.
• Abdominal cramps and pain.
• Sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation
• General symptoms like fever, weight loss, and loss of appetite.
• Constipation, which can lead to bowel obstruction.

Tyler James Williams’ battle with Crohn’s disease highlights the importance of looking after our health and well-being. Health issues can sometimes throw us off track, and often, we might not even know they’re there. Remember, self-care includes speaking up about your feelings and seeking help when needed. While it may feel uncomfortable at first, reaching out can make a real difference. So, if you think you might be experiencing symptoms of Crohn’s, it’s important to talk to your doctor and get the support you deserve.

Resources:

Crohn’s disease – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

Beyond A Gut Feeling

Tyler James Williams’s Big Secret for Becoming Stronger Than Ever

IBD Facts and Stats | IBD | CDC

Crohn’s Disease Symptoms: What to Watch For | Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation

The post Abbott Elementary’s Tyler James Williams On Living With Crohn’s appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Assata Shakur died Friday, September 26th, in Cuba at 78. She was revered as a political activist who dedicated her life to liberation by some. To others, she was a controversial figure who loomed large over the American political landscape.

The Cuban government confirmed that Shakur’s death occurred and attributed it to “health conditions and advanced age.” They have not released a more specific cause of death at this time.

She was a Member of the Black Panther and the Black Liberation Army

Born Joanne Deborah Chesimard, she rose through the ranks of the Black Panther Party and the Black Liberation Army.

She publicly championed revolutionary ideas that were celebrated and hated. She spoke out against mass incarceration and critiqued what she considered the limitations of public education.

Assata Shakur Was Convicted of the Murder of a State Trooper and Fled to Cuba

The story of how she came to live and died in Cuba seems unbelievable. But she was convicted of the murder of a state trooper named Werner Foerster in connection with a 1977 shootout on the New Jersey Turnpike. That incident resulted in her being sentenced to life in prison.

Somehow, Assata escaped from custody and fled to Cuba. The country embraced her and refused to extradite her. They granted her political asylum. Her escape from the Clinton Correctional Facility for Women in New Jersey became international news, followed closely by both her supporters and detractors. When the authorities posted wanted signs seeking her out, some of her devotees responded by hanging posters that declared “Assata is welcome here.”

Assata’s Case Was Frequently Cited

Assata released an autobiography in 1987 that detailed her perspective on the shootout. It was titled “Assata” and outlined her political beliefs. She maintained her innocence throughout her life.

The case was frequently cited by political pundits as diplomatic efforts between the United States and Cuba progressed. It pulsated beneath the world’s consciousness, with people across the political spectrum eager to use it as a mascot for various causes and ideas.

It inspired a ripped-from-the-headlines episode of the long-running CBS political drama Madam Secretary, where a similar case threatens to disrupt trade embargo negotiations.

News of Her Death Impacted Many

Many were deeply affected by the news of her passing. They took to the internet to share their feelings.

Following her death, a wave of social media posts has featured her photograph and quotes. Some have issued heartfelt salutes and somber farewells. Others have issued harsh declarations.

Marc Lamont Hill discussed the impact Assata’s book had on him personally on his Instagram. “Assata wrote the second book that changed ( and likely saved) my life. She taught me about the power of Freedom Dreams. She showed me the beauty of struggle. And she proved that “a wall is just a wall. And nothing more at all. It can be broken down.”

However, when he joined Joe Budden’s podcast, he offered a proper tribute, including his perspective on her case.

 

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She was Royalty in the Hip-Hop Community

However, the hip-hop community, especially, revered Assata. She was the godmother to the iconic rapper Tupac Shakur. She was a dear friend of his mother, Afeni Shakur, who was a member of the Black Panther Party. Tupac appeared to share some of Assata’s beliefs and infused them into his music. The rapper frequently spoke about ideals that were present in his godmother’s public statements in his music before his own tragic death at the hands of a Las Vegas gunman in 1996 at the age of 25.

On his 1993 single “Keep Ya Head Up,” he advocated for the kind of community initiatives that Assata and those she sat with worked on.

He expressed support for young Black women struggling on welfare and heavily criticized what he saw as cuts to social programs in favor of funding the military-industrial complex.

Following his death, the song “Changes” was released on his 1998 album. It featured lyrics that advocated for communal consideration.

The post Activist Assata Shakur Dead At 78 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Did Mimi Cause More People to Tune In?

For the first time in six years, the VMAs hit a new ratings high. It wasn’t Sabrina Carpenter who did it. It was probably the combination of Busta Rhymes and Mariah finally receiving their flowers after three decades, plus the heavy-hitter lineup. But the VMAs even beat Sunday Night Football for the top spot with 5.5M views, according to Deadline.

Her Speech Was Lighthearted, Funny, and Sincere

When Mariah accepted the VMA Vanguard award from Arianna Grande, she was calm and relaxed. “Thank you so much, MTV, for giving me the first VMA award,” the songstress said.”I just have one question: What in the SAM HILL were you waiting for?”

“I am kidding. Being here brings back amazing memories, like when I presented LL COOL J with the Vanguard Award. Or when Whitney Houston and I opened the show with a faux stand-off,” she continued.

“Music videos are my way of life, mini movies visualizing the short fantasy of it all. And let’s be honest, sometimes it’s just an excuse to bring the drama of things I wouldn’t do in real life. Like going in drag for Obsessed, or playing my alter ego in Heartbreaker.”

Mariah Carey Has Earned the Right to be Called a Diva

In 1998, VH1 debuted a series of benefit concerts featuring powerhouse female vocalists. The first concert featured Celine Dion, Gloria Estefan, Aretha Franklin, Shania Twain, Mariah Carey, and Carole King. Mariah even sang a duet of “Chain of Fools with Miss Franklin. She returned in 2000 for “A Tribute to Diana Ross,” which featured herself, Miss Ross, Donna Summer, and Faith Hill as the headliners.

However, upon reading reviews of her memoir, The Meaning of Mariah Carey, I was struck by what Ariana Davis wrote in her review about the diva persona she conceals. “By seeing all that Carey experienced far too early in her life, we come to understand that ‘diva’ image was created as a defense mechanism—a barrier to shield us all, and herself, from the pain she grew up with and still carries to this day.”

The Past Year Has Also Been Tough

Mariah has a history of bipolar II disorder, which can cause periods of depression and hypomania, she told People in 2018. Initially, when she was diagnosed in 2001, no one was talking about mental illness. And she was fearful and guarded. Hence, that diva shell we have come to know.

But in times of extreme stress,  medication may need to be reevaluated. She has had a very stressful year. We may not remember that Mariah lost both her mother, Patricia, and older sister, Alison, who passed away on the same day last August.

Mariah released a statement a few days later to People that said,

“My heart is broken that I’ve lost my mother this past weekend. Sadly, in a tragic turn of events, my sister lost her life on the same day,” the Grammy-winning singer, 55, said in an exclusive statement to PEOPLE.

“I feel blessed that I was able to spend the last week with my mom before she passed,” adds Mariah. “I appreciate everyone’s love and support and respect for my privacy during this impossible time.”

Mariah detailed her complicated family dynamics in her memoir.

Like many aspects of my life, my relationship with my mother has been marked by contradictions and competing realities. It’s never been only black-and-white — it’s been a whole rainbow of emotions,” she wrote in her 2020 memoir, The Meaning of Mariah Carey.

The post Mariah Carey Got Her First VMA Award (Folks Were Concerned) appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Tillman’s Speech

The 40-year-old, who grew up in Prince George’s County, Maryland, strode up to the podium decked out in head-to-toe white.

“You remember what you want to remember. You make time for what you want to make time for. Do the work. Show up. And most importantly, for the love of God, don’t embarrass me in public,” he exclaimed.

My first acting coach was tough, y’all, but all great mothers are. Momma, you were there for me when no one else was, and no one else would show up. Your lovingkindness stays with me. And this is for you,” he continued.

Thank you to the Academy. I am full, I am honored, I am humbled, and as my momma would say, Woo, look at God.”

 

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What You Should Know About Severance

In the not-too-distant future, workers have the option of having a brain implant installed that separates their work and home lives. Their work and home life memories are entirely separated. They have no idea what they do at work.

Gamerant describes it succinctly: “The terms they use to differentiate their two selves are ‘innie’ (work self) and ‘outie’ (home self). With the implant, their outie arrives at Lumon, boards the elevator to go down to the Severed Floor (located just above the basement), and during the elevator trip, their brain switches to the consciousness of their innie.”

The four main characters, Marc, Dylan, Irving, and Helly, work in a department at Lumon. Tillman is their supervisor, Seth Milchick. He is a company man through and through in Season One. In Season Two, part of his veneer starts to crumble.

Even Tillman Doesn’t Know That Much about Milchick

In an interview with The Breakdown, Tillman talked about the interview process for the role. “I remember Ben [Stiller] telling me even before I got the role, ‘This guy could be mean, and this guy could be nice.’ Okay, great. I don’t know how much to do with that.”

Trimmel identifies multiple roles he plays as the supervisor: teacher, mentor, enforcer, and, above all, his absolute devotion to Lumon.

“There is something that Lumon gives him that he can’t get anywhere else, and what that is has not been established yet, and that’s the fun of it,” Trimmel said.

But he equates the character he plays with a cult-like devotion to the work.

The Things That Bring Milchick Close to Cracking Mirror Our Real Lives

His character’s performance review felt like another day as an articulate Black person in corporate America, but more treacherous.

Afrodiza has broken down the character and compared it to what it is like for us in corporate environments. You don’t have to watch the series to relate.

But Yet, Trimmel Made Sure That the Marching Band Was an HBCU

Trimmel had a standout episode in Season 1, Episode 7, in which he lets loose and does a funky dance with the team, inspired by the “Music Dance Experience.” The actor didn’t necessarily want to make dancing a “thing.”

However, when director Ben Stiller came to the season finale and talked to him about his idea of a marching band, Tillman saw an opportunity. If he had his choice, it would be an HBCU-style band, and he would be the drum major.

“I went to two HBCUs, and one of them was Jackson State University. They housed the Sonic Boom of the South, one of the best marching bands in the country, and I would watch them during my undergrad years with such awe and amazement in the athleticism, the creativity, and the passion that these musicians and dancers served with,” he told Variety.

At least in that moment, he could find joy in the character he was playing. And we found joy in celebrating his accomplishments.

The post Severance’s Tramell Tillman Takes Home An Emmy appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Question That Started It All

According to Deadline, an Italian journalist named Federica Polidoro asked this question: “What was lost during the politically correct era? And what can we expect in Hollywood? Now that the Me Too and the Black Lives Matter Movement are done [according to her].

Garfield was stunned into silence. Edebiri started absorbing the unexpected macroaggressions. Roberts, the Oscar-winning actress, stepped in and said, “I’m sorry, with your dark glasses on, I’m not sure who you are talking to.”

That’s when Polidoro said “Andrew and Julia,” specifically leaving Ayo out. Then she repeated the entire question…again. The duo looked at one another. Garfield was clearly not touching that question.

I Am Going to Answer Anyway

Before Edebiri replied, she mentioned that she was curious as to why she wasn’t included in the discussion. Was it purposeful? Crickets. She received no response at all from Polidoro, as if she were not sitting there.

But the award-winning actress, primarily known for the Hulu series The Bear, said, “I don’t think it’s done. It’s not done at all. I think maybe hashtags might not be used as much, but I do think that there’s work being done by activists, by people, every day, that’s beautiful, important work that’s not finished, that’s really, really active for a reason, for a reason, because this world is really charged,” she continued.

“Maybe there’s not mainstream coverage in the way that there might have been daily headlines in the way that it might have been eight or so years ago, but I don’t think that means that the work is done. That’s what I would say.”

Garfield and Roberts agreed that although coverage is not as constant on both fronts as it once was, #MeToo, started by Tarana Burke, and #BlackLivesMatter are not over.

Some Journalists (Still) Just Don’t Understand

Reactions on social media to this interview have been swift. Some have gone to Polidoro’s social accounts to leave a few comments of their own. It prompted a statement that doesn’t make things any better for her. She mentions her long journalistic record, but never explains her erasure of Edebiri.

Reminds us of a specific person talking to a qualified reporter recently, as if she didn’t belong.

But Edebiri Will Be Moving On to Her Next Big Thing

Next spring,  the 29-year-old Edebiri is coming to Broadway. She will be starring opposite Don Cheadle in a revival of Proof. This is a Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning play by David Auburn about struggling with mathematical genius and mental illness. Edebiri will be doing the teeth gnashing after caring with her seriously ill father (Cheadle), who battled an illness related to his psychological well-being.

The title of the play comes from someone discovering some mathematical formula that is “proof” of some theory, and I suspect Edebiri will have her own tour de force every night.

So she can’t get too distracted by this dustup.

 

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And every time someone says a Black woman handles some slight with “grace,” I think about the connection between suppressed rage and autoimmune diseases. It can’t cost us our health. But that’s a story for another day,

The post Ayo Edebiri Will Not Be Ignored appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Engaging in drinking and driving is a sign of “problem drinking,” something that can deeply harm Black women’s physical health due to its adverse side effects.

You Can Have A Problem With Drinking Without Having A Drinking Problem

Being a person who identifies as an alcoholic and being a person grappling with problem drinking or alcohol abuse are not synonymous. Huger, for example, said plainly, “I’m not an alcoholic, let’s be clear,” during a clip that aired during the reunion episode of The Real Housewives of Potomac.

Huger chose to enroll in a Florida treatment center before her sentencing; the show did not specify the type of treatment center. She cited a desire to “get to the bottom” of “taking antidepressants and drinking” as her reasoning for taking that action.

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reports that “Combining alcohol with certain medications, particularly those with sedative effects, can increase the risk of adverse events.”

RHOP’s Grand Dame is not the only Black woman in the public eye with challenges connected to alcohol. Ari Lennox has shared that she is sober. Paula Patton credited alcohol with introducing and festering a level of “chaos” in her life. Naomi Campbell has been open about her commitment to staying sober.

What Is Alcohol Abuse?

According to a 2024 report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), alcohol abuse is rising among women in the United States. There has been a rise in alcohol related deaths in the past seven years, including traffic accidents. Traditionally, men have had higher rates of alcohol abuse, but women are increasing their usage.

Alcohol abuse is the continued use of alcohol with negative consequences. If your health, finances, or social life is hurt by alcohol use, then you might be abusing it. Excessive drinking can lead to Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), a serious issue. This is not a one-size-fits-all problem. “Unhealthy alcohol use ranges from mild to severe,” per the Mayo Clinic. The ranges of AUD include categories like problem drinking, binge drinking, and excessive drinking. Each can cause problems in its own way.

The threshold for meeting alcohol abuse is not as apparent as that of substance abuse, which includes illegal drugs. Alcohol is a social drug that gets glorified. It disappears into wine mom culture and cocktail mixers. “Drinking is more subtle. So, it makes it harder for you to identify and recognize that difference,” Sober Black Girls Club co-founder told ESSENCE in 2023. But alcohol is still a drug with serious side effects. Some people are engaging in sober curious behavior to evaluate the role of alcohol in their lives.

How Does Alcohol Abuse Impact Black Women?

Physical effects of alcohol abuse can take a higher toll on Black women. It causes inflammation, weakens the immune system, and hurts the liver. Some of the more serious physical effects include a higher risk of certain cancers. Studies have found that women are more sensitive to alcohol related brain damage than men.

Women compared to men suffer a greater number and severity of health consequences attributed to AUD,” and “The burden of adverse health attributed to Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD) is higher among Black compared to White women,” per the Journal of Biodemography and Social Biology.

“African American women experience high prevalence of alcohol-related consequences,” and “are disproportionately affected by negative alcohol-related outcomes,” according to the Journal of Ethnicity in Substance Abuse.

Alcohol consumption has been identified as a risk factor for breast cancer, as well. This is particularly troubling for Black women, who have a higher breast cancer mortality rate.

What Are The Alcohol Abuse Risk Factors?

Prolonged stress and childhood trauma can increase one’s chances of developing alcohol use disorder. Risk factors for alcohol abuse can include genetic factors, too. In some studies, parental alcohol use can predict the alcohol use of children.

Age is a risk factor. Young people are at the highest risk from 18 to 21, but seniors are facing challenges they didn’t face recently. “Heavy drinking and AUD are least common among adults aged 65 and older compared to other age groups, but rates have been increasing,” according to the Journal of Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews.

Can Generational Trauma Factor Into Alcohol Abuse?

When Huger was arrested, body cam footage was recorded that featured her stating that she was Thomas Jefferson’s concubine. That may have been a coded reference to racial trauma. “The relationships between trauma and SUDs can be more pronounced in minoritized women, such as Black and Indigenous women, who must also navigate societal oppression and discrimination due to race/ethnicity and sex/gender,” according to the Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment.

What Treatment Options Are Available For Alcohol Abuse?

There are a variety of treatments available for alcohol abuse, including therapy. Inpatient treatment options, like the type of facility Huger checked into, and outpatient treatment options have been proven effective.

Medications are on the market to aid in the treatment of alcohol use disorder as well.

Resources

Social vs Problem Drinking Defined

Alcohol-Medication Interactions

Deaths From Excessive Alcohol Use 

Journal of Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Science

Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment.

Journal of Ethnicity in Substance Abuse.

The post Alcohol Abuse Is Rising: How Black Women Are Negatively Impacted appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Post-Match Exchange

It seems that Ostapenko has a history of outbursts. But she was expecting an apology for a net cord that Townsend won a point off. So, instead of shaking hands like a reasonable person at the end of the match, she went on that tirade. In which she told 29-year-old Townsend, “You have no class and no education.”

Townsend replied, “You need to learn how to take a loss better.” At first, you may think this is a replay of Coco Gauff at the French Open. But this was far more inflammatory, which the Tennis podcast pointed out in the clip below. It also took days before Ostapenko’s non-apology. But Taylor needed to carry on.

 

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Townsend’s Late Night Upset of Mira Andreeva on Friday Night

The crowd stayed until midnight at Arthur Ashe Stadium to watch Taylor Townsend’s match on Friday night, August 29th. They were not disappointed. Playing against 18-year-old Mira Andreeva, she was in her element—the encounter with Ostenpenko out of her mind. While the first set was close, 7-5. Townsend seemed to dominate the second set, and Andreeva’s emotions got the better of her.

Reflections on the Incidents with Ostapenko

In a post-match interview, Townsend was asked about her last 48 hours and how she was feeling about it. Here is how she responded.

“It’s bigger than me,” Townsend, 29, said on court after the match. “It’s about the message. It’s about the representation. It’s about being bold and being able to show up as yourself, and I did that tonight. You guys saw the real Taylor Townsend tonight,” she said.

Townsend Showing Up as Herself

What made that win against Andreeva special was that it got Townsend to the Round 16 for the first time since 2019. And she was unapologetic about showing up as herself. Watching her play with Ben Shelton is especially delightful.

“God damn, this feels good,” Townsend said after her win. “All I’m going to say is welcome to the show. I’ve been putting in a lot of hard work.

Townsend is also a mother.

“I want to dedicate this win to my coach. We’ve been through blood, sweat, and tears, also to my son, Adyn. He’ll be here tomorrow. He’s been telling his teachers at school, ‘I’m going to New York to see my mom.’ So this just felt so good.”

Townsend Put Her All Into the 4th Round

On Sunday, Townsend had a tough match against Barbora Krejcikova. The second set lasted 98 minutes, according to ESPN, the longest set of any women’s draw. With a tiebreaker in the second set that ended 15-13. But in the end, she couldn’t pull it out. 1-6, 7-6, 6-3. In the second set, she was a point away from her first Grand Slam singles quarterfinal over and over again. But Townsend lost seven match points to her Krejcikova, a two-time Grand Slam Champion.

After the loss, Townsend did cry in the sideline chair before leaving the court. “It just stings because I literally gave everything,” Townsend said. “She came up with some really, really great tennis in moments where she was down, and I thought I had it.”

What Her Son Said to Her Afterward

When she saw her son, Adyn, 4, according to People, he had come to see her play, she said. “Good job, Mom!” She said, “Adyn, I lost.  He replied. “That’s okay. ‘That’s the attitude.’ So I’m trying to embody that.” Then asked her if she wanted to work out, maybe do some squats after she had played three hours of tennis.

While Townsend didn’t win the match, she did show us what a winner looks like because she is a winner through and through.

 

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Spencer’s First Role Was in the Movie Serpico

According to Deadline, Danielle Spencer was born on June 24, 1965. Her mother, Cheryl, raised her along with her stepfather, Tim Pelt. Spencer began acting at seven, appearing in  Serpico and Harry and Tonto. She landed the role of Dee, Raj’s little sister, at age 11 in What’s Happening, a sitcom loosely based on the film Cooley High.

The Young Actress Was a Breakout Star

But in the show, Spencer played Dee, who was the sassy younger sister of Roger “Raj” Thomas (played by Ernest Thomas) and the daughter of Mabel (played by Mable King). She was most known for her signature phrase, “Ooooh, I’m gonna tell Mama!”

What’s Happening!! Aired for the first time in 1976, as a four-week summer series before returning in November and then for another two seasons.

“I had never seen any young black girl in that type of spotlight, so I didn’t have a reference point in the media as to how to deal with this opportunity,” she told Jet magazine in 2014. “I was from the Bronx. What I did was use my own family as the reference on how to portray my character.”

A Tragic Car Accident Left Her in a Coma

Sadly, during the second season of production, Spencer and her stepfather were involved in a five-car accident. They were returning from seeing the movie, Star Wars.

Unfortunately, Tim Pelt was killed. And the actress fell into a coma for three weeks. InSpencer had an additional six months of physical therapy to recover.

Becoming Doctor Spencer

After What’s Happening!! and their spinoff, What’s Happening Now, were cancelled, Spencer decided on her next act. She attended UC Davis and earned a degree in veterinary science. She went on to Tuskegee University Veterinary School in Tuskegee, Alabama to become a veterinarian in 1993.

Dr. Spencer worked as a veterinarian in California for two decades before relocating to Virginia. When she got to her new city, she was back in front of the cameras. Dr.Spencer ran a pet-care segment for CBS affiliate WTVR-TV.

Dr.Spencer’s Health Challenges

In the early aughts, she developed a spinal condition that left her paralyzed for several months. But in 2014, Dr. Spencer was diagnosed with breast cancer. As a result of her diagnosis, she underwent a double mastectomy.

In 2018, she had emergency surgery to remove a bleeding hematoma—a result of the car accident that killed her stepfather. Unfortunately, she no longer had health insurance. Her loved ones launched a GoFundMe to cover Dr. Spencer’s medical expenses.

Dr. Spencer is survived by her mother and brother, Jeremy, a jazz musician.

 

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Discovering His Diagnosis While Serving Others

“My grandfather died from prostate cancer 20-something years ago, and so I was always conscious of my health,” he explained.

Eubanks was serving in his capacity as one of the organizers of the health fair at his church, demonstrating how easy it was to have one’s PSA numbers checked. Within minutes, he learned his numbers were in the danger zone.

Understanding PSA Numbers

A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. “Normal” PSA ranges vary by age.

“In general, a PSA level above 4.0 ng/mL is considered abnormal and may result in a recommendation for prostate biopsy,” according to the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health.

While working at his church’s health summit, Eubanks learned his PSA level was twice the normal level. It was in the 8s. He had previously been in the 6s, but he was never told.

“It was really shocking to find out that in 2022, it was diagnosed, but nobody said anything to me,” he continued.

How Eubanks’ Diagnosis Got Lost in the System

The longtime HCP of the frequent face on The Real Housewives of Atlanta passed away. Eubanks had no clue his records were in limbo. His new doctor never admitted they didn’t have it. Instead, they pretended they did and asked questions to try to fill in the blanks.

“My doctor didn’t come out of the gate and tell me that he didn’t have my records,” he said. “Nor did my insurance offer to provide me with any information, claiming they didn’t have anything either.”

However, Eubanks was fortunate enough to find a doctor committed to presenting him with a full picture of his health. “He was able to track [my health history] back through my labs,” he said.

Black Men and Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is extremely common. A 2025 review in the Journal of the American Medical Association states that “Prostate cancer is the most common nonskin cancer in men in the US.”

The risk is even greater in the Black community. “Black men are disproportionately affected by prostate cancer, with earlier presentation, more aggressive disease, and higher mortality rates versus White men,” according to the American Cancer Society.

They are 70% more likely to develop prostate cancer. Their outcomes are worse as well. Black men are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer. The disparity is even more significant in Eubanks’ home state of Georgia. It is fifth nationwide.

Misconceptions about PSA Testing

Eubanks cited misinformation about how PSA levels are checked as one of the contributing factors for why people do not get tested.

“Guys have to get out of their heads about having their prostate checked through the anus,” he said. PSA tests can be conducted through a rapid blood draw process. It is a quick and minimally invasive way to educate yourself about your health.

An Overlooked Symptom

He pointed out a significant symptom of prostate cancer that goes unnoticed. Previously, he attributed his frequent urination to the amount of water he was drinking. He was wrong. “That was a sign. You know? My bladder was overactive,” he declared.

Finding Purpose Under Pressure

Eubanks partnered with ZERO Prostate Cancer to help him spread awareness and increase access to those who need it the most. The organization has offered “resources, programs, and services” to those fighting or at risk for prostate cancer and their loved ones for nearly 30 years.

They are aiming to ensure 10,000 men a month get appointments for PSA tests.

Advocacy is nothing new to Eubanks. He has aided in producing health summits, community feedings, and other philanthropic events for decades through his church Victory for the World.

He has comforted others on a smaller scale as well. A frequent traveler to Saint Lucia, he has brought back items to soothe those in his life who are dealing with the symptoms of illness.

“I’ve been bringing back soursop leaves and bark and giving it to people that had health challenges, and lo and behold, I’m needing it now, so it’s just really interesting how God has been preparing me for this day, and I had no idea,” he said.

Soursop has been known to “possess therapeutic effects due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gastroprotective properties,” according to the  Journal of Molecules.

How Eubanks Practices Self-Care

He is currently meditating and working with his urologist and primary care provider on a treatment plan that is right for him.

He strongly encouraged those without resources to attend public events and gain the knowledge they need. “When you have a health fair or summit or anything free in your community, go go go! Because the information is there, you have the medical professionals there.”

It can be hard to prioritize your health as your to-do list expands. But Eubanks stressed the importance of putting your well-being first.

“I encourage people to take the time. It’s your health,” he said. “No matter how much wealth, how many bedrooms you have in your house, what car you drive, without your health, none of that is relevant.”

And while the world might know him for external elegance, Dwight Eubanks is focused on what lies within.

“It doesn’t matter what label is on your shoes or outfits. None of that matters when you don’t have good health and strength,” he added. “That’s the number one thing.”

References

NCI: PSA Fact Sheet

Journal of the American Cancer Society: The Review

Racial Disparities of Black Men with Prostate Cancer: American Cancer Society

Journal of Molecules.

The post Dwight Eubanks’ Initial Prostate Cancer Diagnosis Was Lost appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Truvillion is joining us as one of the cohosts of the BHM  Harlem Week 2025 Health Summit & Expo.

He wants us to know that we can learn to eat differently.

“That you have options to understand how the way that we are eating, the mac and cheese, the processed food, all the time is slowly killing us,” he explained.

“With more education, we wouldn’t be consuming the foods like that, and understanding that you can take care of yourself inside out.

Who Inspired Him to Try a Plant Plant-Based Diet?

Today, Truvillion has been fully committed to a plant-based diet since 2016. Erica Ash, in the BET drama  In Contempt, in which they co-starred.

“She was plant-based, and I was watching her discipline. She was telling me about Dr. Sebi, these cleanses, and how they helped her. I was number five on the call sheet, and she was number one. And I remember thinking to myself, to get to that next level, I need more discipline,” he said.

After shooting in Toronto for six months, he returned home and began planning for the future. Generally, he future-paces four to five years in advance.

But the native New Yorker, who grew up in Southeast Queens, also began looking at his life and habits.

“I have family coming over to the house. And have a drink. I go to this red carpet, have a drink. And go to this event and I have a drink,” he recalled.

“I’m at this function, and I have a drink. I look back and say, Damn, I’ve been drinking for months.”

Making the Decision to Try a Plant-Based Diet

The actor asked himself when he last practiced self-discipline and decided to challenge himself and order the advanced cleanse. It was an expensive purchase, so Truvillion committed to sticking with it.

A self-professed good cook, there were things in his pantry he could no longer use, which took some getting used to.

“I had to find all these new ingredients and new alkaline foods. And I went on this journey. And I walked in the dark for like, four to five months,” Truvillion pointed out.

“But when I got to the other side. I’m not going back. As much as I love my salmon, as much as I love my lollipop lamb chops, as much as I love my halibut and my turkey burgers and my buffalo wings.”

What Does He Like to Cook Now?

Truvillion says that his mood drives his palate. “I could go from making plant-based tuna out of chickpeas and walnuts to making a vegetable plant-based lasagna with plant-based cheese and ricotta cheese,” he recounted.

And stuff in there to make a lobster roll with lobster mushrooms, or, almost like a Philly cheese steak with morel mushrooms.”

He is not one of those plant-based purists. His family still gathers at his home for big occasions. He still fixes some of their favorites, including mac and cheese.

“There hasn’t been any fish or anything on my stove, particularly in a long time, but I made Mac and cheese and some other things for family,” he said.

And Truvillion may even eat a piece of chocolate now and then.

“I look at my grandfather, who lived to be 99. You could do anything you want in this world, just in moderation. I’m more on the lighter side of things. So if I have something that ain’t on the list, I’m good.”

Five Food Switches

The multihypenate, who can add another title to his roster, is also an entrepreneur, and says sometimes making some simple shifts in your diet can make a big difference. Here are his five suggestions:

• Try dates or agave instead of white sugar
• Try Pink sea salt instead of white salt
• Consume food containing seeds
• Add Key limes to your diet
• Add Sea Moss to your diet

Editor’s Note: Always check with your doctor, especially if you have any underlying conditions.

Be sure to check out Tobias Truvillion in-person or virtually at the BHM 2025 Harlem Week Summit & Expo. Check out this link for registration information.

The post Tobias Truvillion Believes Food Can Be Medicine appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Sanders, who is also known as Coach Prime, has faced other health issues. He had blood clots that led to the amputation of two of his toes in 2021. He learned of his bladder cancer during follow-up testing for those issues, proving the importance of routine screenings.

A CT scan of his vascular system alerted his caregivers to signs.

“Men, everybody. Get checked out. Because if it weren’t for me getting tested for something else, they wouldn’t have stumbled upon this,” he advised.

How Bladder Cancer Can Change Your Life?

The former professional football player turned inspirational football coach was transparent about his challenges following the surgery.

“I’m still dealing with going to the bathroom. It’s a whole life change,” he told the media. “I’m gonna be transparent. I can’t pee like I used to pee. It’s totally different.”

He explained that he might require special accommodations in the workplace due to the effects of the surgery. “I cannot control my bladder, so I get up to go to the bathroom already four or five times a night,” said Sanders. “I’m making a joke out of it, but it’s real. So if you see a port-a-potty on the sideline, it’s real. I’m just telling you right now, you’re gonna see it.”

Sanders chose to share his diagnosis and details about his treatment following his surgery despite speculation surrounding his absence from team practices. He shared when he was ready to.

Privacy is often important to those facing cancer.

He addressed the stigma associated with bladder cancer and instructed those watching the press conference to be proactive in their approach to their health. “Let’s stop being ashamed of it, and let’s deal with it, and let’s deal with it head-on,” he said.

Sanders shared a video of himself heading to the surgery with his friend Karruche Tran at his side. Social support is deeply important to those dealing with cancer.

How Common Is Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer is one of several cancers of the urinary system. It is fairly common. The World Health Organization says it is the ninth most common cancer in the world.

Men are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with bladder cancer than women. Of the women who get diagnosed, Black and Hispanic women are at a higher risk of being diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Bladder cancer heavily affects those in the senior population. “A total of 90% of bladder cancer diagnoses are made in those 55 years of age and older,” according to the Journal of Medical Sciences.

Sanders is 57.

What Are The Risks of Bladder Cancer?

Smoking is a significant risk factor for bladder cancer—parasite infections and extended exposure to chemicals like arsenic and chlorine present risk factors as well.

There are genetic factors associated with bladder cancer, too. It is hereditary.

What Are The Mortality Rates For Bladder Cancer?

“Bladder cancer is the? 10th leading cause of cancer death in the United States,” according to the American Cancer Society.

According to a 2023 article from BMC Urology, “Compared with white patients, African Americans tend to present with more advanced disease at diagnosis, are less likely to receive definitive treatment, and have poorer survival outcomes.” As with several other forms of cancer, early screening helps with outcomes.

The Canadian Urological Association Journal reports that “Screening for bladder cancer results in close to 80% downstaging.”

What Are The Signs Of Bladder Cancer?

Blood in the urine is one of the most apparent signs of bladder cancer. It can be faint. It can also briefly disappear and reappear.

Frequent urination and painful urination are signs as well. Back pain is associated with bladder cancer, too. If you experience any one of these symptoms, you should seek a screening.

What Kind of Treatments Are Available for Bladder Cancer?

The standard of care for bladder cancer treatment is changing. Some drugs are showing promise in clinical trials.

The type of bladder cancer determines which kind of treatment is best for each patient.

Sanders opted for bladder removal after considering the nature of his tumor. He felt that was the best path to stay there for his family and his players. The less invasive options did not depict the future he wanted.

“You guys gave me options that scared me to death,” Sanders told Dr. Kukrej.

Dr. Janet Kukrej was at Sanders’ side as he spoke. She described the tumor as “very aggressive” and “very high grade.”

“It was very high grade invading through the bladder wall, not into the muscle layer, something we call very high risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer,” she explained. “We performed a full robot-assisted laparoscopic bladder removal and creation of a new bladder.”

Resources:

Digit Health

World Health Organization: Bladder Cancer

National Cancer Institute

Journal of Medical Sciences.

American Cancer Society.

BMC Urology

Canadian Urological Association Journal

Mayo Clinic: Clinical Trials

The post Deion Sanders Wants You To Get Tested For Bladder Cancer appeared first on Black Health Matters.

We Grew Our Own Food

Before she began her modeling career, Cynthia recalled a childhood in Alabama where they rarely ate out, if at all. My mom, my grandmother, everybody cooked,” she explained.

“I came from a family where we grew a lot of our own food. We didn’t eat a lot of fast food. We didn’t know we were eating healthy; we ate what was prepared for us.”

My Grandmother Was The Doctor

The first time the RHOA reality star was ever a patient in a hospital was when she gave birth to her daughter, Noelle Robinson. “Growing up in the South, they [our elders] introduced us to preventative medicine,” she noted.

“I remember that they would make us all kinds of home remedies that you would have to eat or drink. And Vicks was the all-purpose remedy for almost everything. But I didn’t get sick,” she continued.

My grandmother was the doctor. Maybe if you broke a bone, you’d have to go to the hospital to see someone else.”

Cynthia has started to look at some of the things her grandmother and mother used, like garlic, and incorporated them back into her lifestyle today.

We are excited to welcome her back as a cohost at the BHM Harlem Week 2025 Health Summit & Expo. August 14, 2025, at Riverside Church in New York City.

I Got Intentional About My Weight Management

Cynthia had always been thin, but menopause has a way of changing our bodies. “At 58, your metabolism is slow. You breathe air, you gain weight,” she joked. However, it can be frustrating when things that previously worked for weight loss no longer provide the desired positive outcome.

She tried intermittent fasting and a few other methods before deciding to sign up for Weight Watchers. “I tried all these other things, but I decided on Weight Watchers because I needed a game plan,” she said.

Her schedule keeps her on the road between Atlanta, Los Angeles, and New York City, with considerable time spent in hotels where there aren’t stoves.

“I also needed to have a different conversation with food. Which foods work for me, which don’t? With Weight Watchers, I don’t feel like I’m on a diet, I’m on a food management plan. I can eat pretty much what I want.”

For her, that could mean having a burger with the bottom half of the bun, or a lettuce wrap. She looks at food differently.

Cynthia went in with a very ambitious goal: to lose 50 pounds in three months. Instead, she lost 25 pounds, a significant accomplishment. She is now working on the next 25.

“I don’t have the type of job where anyone can afford to stop production because I don’t feel well,” she explained.

Podcast as Talk Therapy

One of the reasons Cynthia lives on Delta Airlines is that she flies to the Los Angeles area often to film episodes of her podcast Humble Brag, wth Crystal and Cynthia. Yes, a former RHOBH with a RHOA sounds strange. But this unlikely pairing works. Their podcast launched last October, so they are close to their first anniversary.

“One of the things I am trying to do these days is operate from a place of peace 99% of the time because stress is real,” Cynthia pointed out.

“My podcast Humble Brag with Crystal Kung Minkoff has become like my two-hour therapy session. Just sitting and talking. It’s the therapy I didn’t know I needed.”

Getting to Glowissima

As she prioritizes her health, Cynthia is also putting her skin in the forefront. For years, women have been asking her what she has used on it to keep it so radiant.

Recently, with her cofounder, Dana Hill-Robinson, they launched Glowissima Skincare. “Dana and I have known each other for over 35 years and always talked about doing something together, but the timing wasn’t right, she said.

“But two years ago, everything fell into place and we started working on the line.” The clean skincare line has two hero products: Miracle Elixir Facial Oil and Ultimate Radiance Facial Cream. The products are infused with botanical ingredients from New Zealand, including manuka honey and kiwi seed oil. As well as other yummy ingredients like kakuda plum, seabuckthorn oil, and marula oil, which heal, protect, hydrate skin, and reduce hyperpigmentation.

Cynthia says, “Think of the products like boyfriend and girlfriend—the oil seals in the moisturizer. But the oil can also be used as a spot treatment. They are good together or used separately.”

In the few short months the products have been out, it has already won the Gurus of Beauty Award for Breakthrough Skincare Brand and  Best Facial Oil from Pop Sugar.

 

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Don’t forget to join Cynthia as she cohosts the BHM Harlem Week 2025 Health Summit & Expo. You can come in-person or tune in virtually. Click here for registration.

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According to the news report, “Warner died near Cocles, a beach in Limon, Costa Rica, police said. He was caught by a high current in the water and was discovered Sunday afternoon.” Updated reports reveal the actor was swimming with his eight-year-old daughter when they were caught in a fast moving current. A surfer used his board to bring his daughter to safety. A volunteer lifeguard rescued another surfer and Warner, who was unresponsive and given CPR for a prolonged period of time.

The Cosby Show actor was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, on August 18, 1970, to Pamela Warner and Robert Warner, Jr. His parents named him after Malcolm X and jazz pianist Ahmad Jamal.

Because he had an early interest in acting, his parents enrolled him in a performing arts school in New York City. Variety reports that he auditioned for the role of Theo Huxtable on the last day of NBC’s nationwide search. Bill Cosby selected Warner himself.

He had a Solid Career as an Actor.

The actor grew up before our eyes on The Cosby Show, getting his first Emmy nomination while working on the show. However, he made sure never to play the same character twice. On Malcolm & Eddie, he played opposite Eddie Griffin, and he cast off his upwardly mobile upbringing. In Reed Between the Lines, he navigated the blended family life with Tracee Ellis Ross, a triple board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon, on The Resident.

Warner was also a Talented Director.

As a teen, Warner got his start directing music videos, according to Variety. He directed New Edition and Special Ed. Later, Warner directed episodes of The Cosby Show, Malcolm & Eddie, Kenan & Kel, All That, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Sesame Street. He won the NAACP Key of Life Image Award for the AIDS awareness video “Timeout: The Truth about HIV, AIDS, and You‘ which starred Magic Johnson and Arsenio Hall.

He was a Musician and Spoken Word Artist

A true multi-hyphenate, Warner is a self-described poet and a bass player, according to his bio. In 2015, Warner nabbed his first Grammy Award for “Best Traditional R&B Performance as a Featured Performer” on Robert Glasper’s version of the Stevie Wonder classic “Jesus Children of America.” Lalah Hathaway was also featured on the track.

Additionally, Warner’s jazz-funk band, Miles Long, has performed at several prominent jazz festivals, including the Playboy Jazz Festival. They also opened for artists such as Earl Klugh and the late Luther Vandross.

He had a new Podcast Project.

Warner was excited about his latest venture. A podcast he was cohosting with Candace Kelly and Weusi Baraka called Not All Hood. He spoke to People about it in early May, and it launched last month. There are three episodes out so far.

“It’s been an interesting experience for me, because it’s a place where I feel safe enough to be able to be as vulnerable as I allow myself to be,” he told the magazine.

His Private Life Was Off Limits

While we were aware of some of his early romances, Warner did not share any information about his private life in recent years; all he would confirm was that he was married and had a daughter. Beyond that, he preferred to keep his personal life private.

Our condolences go out to his entire family.

Note: The World Health Organization says nearly 300,000 people die from drowning each year. That is 30 people every hour. 

The post Malcolm-Jamal Warner Has Died At 54 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

How Did the Foundation Get Its Name?

Megan created the foundation three years ago as a way to honor the memories of her late parents, Joseph Pete III and Holly Thomas. Thomas was also a rapper. She deeply inspired Megan and helped shepherd her career until a brain tumor claimed her life in 2019.

The gala was held to support the foundation’s programming efforts. Taraji P. Henson served as the emcee for the evening. The award-winning actress is dedicated to promoting healthcare access and has spoken openly about the need for mental healthcare resources within the Black community. Megan has previously championed the exact cause.

The Mission of The Pete & Thomas Foundation

The mission of Pete & Thomas Foundation “provides resources to effect meaningful and positive change in the lives of women and children, senior citizens, and underserved communities in Houston, TX and across the globe,” according to its website.

To achieve their goals, the foundation works in collaboration with others. Between 2022 and 2024, the foundation has partnered with over 125 community organizations to support more than 23,000 individuals, making a significant impact in their lives. Megan speaks openly about the organization’s mission.

What Are Their Main Areas of Focus?

Megan launched a digital mental health resource directory in 2022. The site was named after a saucy but soulful lyric from “Anxiety,” a powerful track from her Traumazine album. The song was released after Megan experienced the trauma of physical violence at the hands of someone in her circle, something that disproportionately impacts Black women.

The Pete & Thomas Foundation offers services and grants to communities. Its programming is split into three distinct areas: education, housing, and health and wellness. These form the foundation’s core pillars. It is particularly active in Megan’s home state of Texas.

Megan is Particularly Passionate About This Area.

Education, in particular, is a top priority for the rapper who stayed in school as she ascended to the top of the rap charts. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Administration from Texas Southern University in 2021. Megan previously expressed a desire to open an assisted living facility in her hometown of Houston, Texas. She has discussed the importance of elder care in interviews.

The Pete & Thomas Foundation has awarded scholarships to students at Texas Southern University pursuing degrees in public health fields. Visible Black leaders in public health help create a blueprint for greater representation in the field. Black women, in particular, face extraordinary barriers to building careers in public health. As pathways to professional advancement are disappearing, help from non-profits is even more urgent.

Texas Southern University is an HBCU that has received support from Beyoncé, a collaborator on Megan’s “Savage Remix,” through her BeyGood foundation.

They also supported student athletes at Audrey H. Lawson Middle School through targeted grants.

Megan Believes We All Can Do Something to Help Others

Megan shared tips for supporting communities on the carpet in an interview with Billboard. “You have to know what your community needs,” she said. “If you’re in an underserved community, figure out what it is that your community needs from you that you can directly do.”

She encouraged others to think from a grassroots perspective.

“You can maybe put together some things at a local school,” she suggested. “Your community needs to be served, but you need to figure out how to serve it.”

Putting a Spotlight on Those Making a Difference

The Foundation’s Hotties Helping grant program helps people recognize each other for the positive contributions they make to their community through acts of service. Hotties, the official nickname of Megan’s feverish fanbase, can recommend one another for a chance to get their non-profit supported by the foundation.

Megani encourages people to nominate those who work in public service, such as teachers, healthcare workers, or volunteers.

Learn more about the Pete & Thomas Foundation here.

@petethomasfdn Founded by Megan Thee Stallion in honor of her parents, the Pete and Thomas Foundation is committed to uplifting women, children, senior citizens and underserved communities through education, housing, community goodwill and health & wellness. Since 2022, the Foundation has expanded its impact by launching mental health initiatives, supporting senior citizens with generators, supporting families with resources, and providing scholarships to students in Houston and across the globe. Featured at the Pete & Thomas Foundation Inaugural Gala on July 16th at Gotham Hall in New York City, we have proudly partnered with 150 community organizations and served over 30,000 people. Learn more and get involved: www.peteandthomasfoundation.org #PeteAndThomasGala ♬ original sound – Pete & Thomas Foundation

The post What is Megan Thee Stallion’s Pete & Thomas Foundation? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

A Mother Who Spoke Up

One of the earliest voices for change was the late Bebe Moore Campbell. She was a bestselling author and someone who used her storytelling to ensure that mental health in our communities couldn’t be ignored. Her passion came from a personal place.

Her daughter, actress Maia Campbell, gained fame in the 1990s for her role on In the House. But away from the cameras, she was navigating life with bipolar disorder. At times, personal moments were shared without her consent or consideration. The headlines rarely told the full story. Through it all, Bebe never stopped advocating, not just for Maia, but for everyone lacking access to proper mental health support.

72 Hour Hold and Maia’s Return

In 2005, Bebe published “72 Hour Hold,” a novel about a mother’s fight to get her daughter the help she needs. The system in the book mirrors real life, with families struggling, institutions overwhelmed, and love often running up against numerous barriers. While fictional, the story reflects truths that still ring loud today. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, suicide was the third leading cause of death for Black youth ages 10 to 24 in 2022. That statistic alone tells us there’s so much more to be done, especially when it comes to mental health care that reflects our lived experiences.

Now, Maia is rejoining the conversation. After several years out of the public eye, she’s returned to social media with renewed energy. In a recent video, she shared her hope to see “72 Hour Hold” adapted for the screen, ideally with Tyler Perry helping to bring it to life. “It was a monumental book for me,” she said. “And July is Mental Health Awareness Month, so I’m still on that campaign. Keep me in prayer.”

 

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Healing and Creativity

Maia Campbell’s return shows growth and purpose. Her message was simple but powerful. She looked healthy. She sounded centered. More than anything, she seemed ready to explore mental health in a public way, this time pairing it with creativity by bringing her mother’s bestselling prose to life. It also reminds us that progress can look like many things, including just showing up and sharing your truth.

If 72 Hour Hold does become a film, it won’t just be a tribute to Bebe Moore Campbell’s impact. It will be a continuation of a shared legacy. Through advocacy, art, and storytelling, both women have pushed the conversation forward. In a world that often misunderstands or overlooks our pain, visibility like this can plant the seeds for something better. Sometimes, real change starts with one voice, brave enough to speak up, and generous enough to make space for others to do the same.

Resources

72 Hour Hold by Bebe Moore Campbell, Paperback | Barnes & Noble®

Mental and Behavioral Health – Black/African Americans | Office of Minority Health

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Nyong’o used her post to share parts of her story, including a discussion with her doctor, in which she inquired about how to prevent the regrowth of her fibroids. Her inquiry was dismissed.

“She said, you can’t. It’s only a matter of time until they grow again.”

Nyong’o Realized She Wasn’t Alone

Statistically speaking, more Black women are suffering from fibroids than those without. According to The Endocrine Review. “The most important and frequently reported risk factor for uterine fibroids is race, disproportionately impacting African American women.”

According to the Uterine Leiomyomata, “Uterine leiomyomata, also known as uterine fibroids, are the most common benign gynecologic tumors, occurring in 50% to 70% of females by menopause, with rates reaching over 80% in Black women.”

Fibroids impact about 15 million women in the United States alone.

What Nyong’o didn’t like was that we are taught to normalize the pain from the moment that we hit puberty. But should we accept it? Because we do, when we start having fibroid pain, many of us silently accept that, too.

As she began talking to others privately, the actress realized she wasn’t alone. And we should no longer suffer in either.

Nyong’o is Teaming Up With Others to Take Action

Nyong’o isn’t speaking up only to share her story with others. She aims to effect changes both in the legislature and in the lives of individuals with fibroids through research. On July 15th, the actress visited Capitol Hill.

She joined Representative Shontel Brown, Representative Yvette Clarke, Senator Angela Alsobrooks, and Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman to discuss uterine health. Last year, Black Health Matters stood in solidarity with Representatives Brown and Clark as they introduced the U-Fight Bill.

The late Representative Stephanie Tubbs Jones first introduced a bill in Congress to fund research on fibroids in 2001. Initially, she wanted it to direct money to the National Institutes of Health. Later, she drafted separate bills asking for a budget for fibroid research and education. Representative Brown, who now serves her constituents in Ohio, continues pushing. This year, Nyong’o joined them in their efforts to push for change.

Nyong’o is Partnering with the Foundation For Women’s Health to Raise Funds for Fibroid Research

The Black Panther actress was also on Capitol Hill discussing the launch of the FWH x Lupita Nyong’o Uterine Fibroid Research Grant with the Foundation for Women’s Health. She wants an inside-outside partnership between the public and private sectors. Fibroids cost the U.S. healthcare system approximately $6 billion annually.

When her grant is funded, Nyong’o aims to leverage the foundation’s expertise to evaluate proposals. She is seeking minimally invasive and non-invasive treatments for fibroids that offer symptom relief and enhance patients’ quality of life.

When she says ‘no more suffering in silence,’ Nyong’o hopes to make it less painful for the sisters who come after us.

Click here for more information on her grant.

 

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Resources

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Lying on The Floor in The Locker Room Before A Final is Scary

One incident occurred before the 2016 Wimbledon doubles finals: “I was just lying on the floor in the locker room; Thank God, Serena went and got the doctor,” Williams said. “And I was able to eat, and start playing… bad luck for our opponents.”

They’re laughing, but it isn’t really funny. She is a Black woman who had to play through her pain because that is what we do. They won, but what did that cost her?

The Stats

Up to 70-80% women will be diagnosed with fibroids in their lifetime. But Black women are 2-3 times more likely to receive that diagnosis, and our symptoms will be more severe.

Was Her Anemia Sjögren’s or Something Else?

Williams believed that because she had been experiencing heavy periods and was in a state of constant anemia, it was caused by her autoimmune disease. In 2011, she withdrew from the U.S. Open, revealing for the first time that she had been diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease that can cause joint pain.

Williams Didn’t Know the Extent of Her Fibroid Diagnosis

The Grand Slam Champion told Essamuah she didn’t know that her fibroid was the size of an orange. “One doctor told me, at the time I was like 37. Eh, this is part of aging, this is normal,” Williams explained.

A doctor told her her option was a hysterectomy. “I have never been so sad in my life. I had never been running to have kids,” William continued. “But to have that taken away was frightening.”

Williams Saw 12 Doctors Before She Found Someone Who Could Help

When the doctor recommended a hysterectomy, Williams began doing her own research. She found the NYU Langone Health Center for Fibroid Care, led by Dr. Taraneh Shirazian.

Dr. Shirazian said, “I think Venus’ story is a very common story. I think women do not get the care that they need. Even when she came to see me, she said, ‘I’ve seen a dozen other doctors.”

Williams then inquired why Dr. Shirazian recommended a surgical procedure—a myomectomy to remove her fibroids. “Because I know it will make you feel better,” Dr. Shirazian replied.

The tennis champ is now a year post-surgery. “I have been taking this time to rest and recover and be a happy person without fibroids.”

She has been training a bit, and the 45-year-old has not ruled out playing again. When asked if she believes having fibroids impacted her professional tennis career, she said, “I never had enough energy to play a real match the way I wanted to, of course it affected my results.”

Williams said, “You can be denied the best healthcare no matter who you are.”

Check out: TheWhiteDressProject.org

 

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He was born in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1944, according to the LA Sentinel. The family moved to Los Angeles in 1959. The Scott brothers began singing together while attending Jordan High School. The Whispers included the twins, Nicholas Caldwell, Marcus Hutson, and Gordy Harmon.

The Vietnam draft derailed their collective group goals. Walter served in the Army for two years as a signaler. While he was away, the Whispers continued to perform. After he returned in 1969, he rejoined the group.

They recorded for several labels, even landing on the top ten charts in 1970, before signing with Solar Records in 1978. That’s when their career started to take shape. Soultracks reported that The Whispers’ debut album had a modest hit with “Olivia”.

“After so many years, the Whispers seemed destined to remain a middling act that would never achieve real large-scale international attention. Then in 1980, Griffey teamed them with upcoming writer/producer Leon Sylvers, and the result was “And the Beat Goes On,” one of the most infectious songs of the disco era and the single that thrust the Whispers to the top tier of soul artists.”

After they found a formula that worked, their monster hits continued with “It’s a Love Thing” and “Keep on Loving Me.” Babyface gave the group a hit with “Rock Steady.” In the 90s, they moved over to Capitol Records and later to Interscope.

The Whispers had 15 songs in Billboard’s top  10 R&B hits starting in 1970 and eight top R&B albums in their catalog, including two No. 1s: The Whispers and Love is Where You Find It. The group was inducted into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2014.

The LA Times says the quintet’s songs were widely sampled by rappers, including 50 Cent, Mobb Deep, and Will Smith, the last of whom used “And the Beat Goes On” as the basis for his late-‘90s hit “Miami.”

Walter C. Scott, Jr. is survived by his wife, Jan; his two sons; and three grandchildren. Our prayers and condolences go out to his family.

The post Walter C. Scott Co-Founder of The Whispers Has Died appeared first on Black Health Matters.

“Official diagnosis. They used the word ‘severely,’” she continued. “My life and its challenges finally make sense. So, so much sense.” At 42, she finally has a name for what has silently shaped her world—autism spectrum disorder.

 

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A Diagnosis That Redefines Everything

Autism spectrum disorder is often diagnosed early in life, but not always accurately, and not for everyone. Black girls and women, in particular, are often overlooked by diagnostic frameworks designed around young, white boys. Symptoms can manifest differently. Behaviors are often explained away as moodiness, anxiety, or “attitude.”

The numbers speak volumes, according to the CDC’s 2025 report, 1 in 31 children in the U.S. are identified with autism, with Black children diagnosed at higher rates than white children, a trend first observed in 2020 and continuing today. This reflects broader progress in identifying autism in historically underserved communities. Still, diagnosis among Black girls and women remains delayed. Many, like Michele, spend years adapting, masking, and quietly questioning why their experiences feel out of sync with those around them. Her diagnosis doesn’t change who she is. It just changes how we understand the path she’s walked.

Career Under Scrutiny

Michele’s journey through the music industry has never been simple. While she earned early acclaim for her voice and songwriting, her 2017 performance at Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration changed everything. The backlash was intense, her label dropped her, radio support disappeared, and even some friends and family distanced themselves.
In the years since, she’s spoken openly about the fallout. At the time, she didn’t anticipate the response. Now, with a clearer understanding of her autism, that disconnect makes more sense.

Individuals on the autism spectrum often face challenges with social reasoning, risk assessment, or navigating the complexities of perception and response. Her diagnosis doesn’t redefine those moments, but it offers new context, an added layer to how she processed, navigated, and ultimately stood by a choice that became one of the most scrutinized of her career.

During the same period, Michele experienced a miscarriage and a period of deep depression, trials she spoke about candidly on social media, including the physical and emotional toll of that grief. She didn’t vanish; she simply stepped back to heal.

Showing up Without the Mask

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, processes information, and experiences the world. It exists on a spectrum, meaning it appears differently in every individual. Some may struggle with sensory sensitivity, social cues, or repetitive behaviors, while others may simply relate to the world in less conventional ways.

Since sharing her diagnosis, Michele has returned to the stage. But not in the same way. “Stripping the mask,” she called it, one show at a time. According to Psychology Today, for many neurodivergent people, “masking” is the exhausting act of hiding traits and behaviors to avoid being judged or misunderstood. It’s often developed unconsciously, especially by women. It works until it burns you out.

Now, she’s choosing differently. That doesn’t mean shouting her diagnosis at every performance. It means showing up in ways that are more sustainable, more honest, and more in line with her style. Best of all, audiences are meeting her there. The response has been overwhelmingly supportive, not just from fans, but also from others who have been late-diagnosed or have long suspected something about themselves that never quite fit the typical mold. Her story is making space for even more stories.

What Her Story Teaches Us

Chrisette Michele isn’t turning her diagnosis into a new brand. She’s not suddenly the face of neurodivergence. She’s simply saying: this is what was always true. And now that she knows it, she can move through the world with more clarity. Her journey serves as a poignant reminder of how many people carry the weight of uncertainty and how powerful it can be when they finally find clarity.

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The baby was named Chance. According to WXIA of Atlanta, Newkirk said that the baby weighed just one pound thirteen ounces and is being cared for in the neonatal unit.

The Challenges Associated With Low Birth Weight

According to the Journal of BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, low birth weight “contributes to a spectrum of adverse outcomes throughout the life course.” These could include “stunted growth, infectious diseases, neurodevelopmental impairments, compromised cognitive function, and academic performance.” The challenges associated with low birth weight can appear in the short term or the long term.

Newkirk solicited prayers from the public for her new grandchild. “He’s expected to be OK,” she said. “He’s just fighting. We just want prayers for him. Just keep praying for him.”

Adriana Smith’s Need For Medical Attention Resulted in Her Being Declared Brain Dead

Smith was a 31-year-old nurse who sought medical attention for severe headaches and was sent home after visiting another hospital. No scans were done, and she awoke gasping for air due to blood clots in her brain the next day. She has been brain-dead and hospitalized since February.

Newkirk commented on Smith being removed from life support on Tuesday and eventually laid to rest. “It’s hard to process,” she said. “I’m her mother. I shouldn’t be burying my daughter. My daughter should be burying me.”

Adriana Smith’s Case Has Garnered National Attention

Her case has drawn national attention thanks to being impacted by Georgia’s stringent abortion ban. It has drawn questions about whether or not legislation can outweigh the wishes of a family in a medical crisis involving a pregnant person. Debates about what constitutes personhood have sprung from its place in the public discourse since Smith’s family first spoke out.

The state instituted a strict six-week ban, signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp. The Fulton County Superior Court overturned it at first. The overturning of Roe v. Wade allowed the ban to be enforced in the state. It has been a major source of controversy. Newkirk and the rest of Smith’s family were left with no control over whether or not Smith could be removed from life support since she was carrying a fetus.

Now the Focus is On Chance’s Survival

On Monday, in an interview with 11 Alive, Newkirk clarified the family’s intention to care for the child. “Right now, the journey is for baby Chance to survive,” Newkirk said. “Whatever condition God allows him to come here in, we’re going to love him just the same.”

Newkirk was warned about the potential health issues that her grandson might face. “He may be blind, may not be able to walk, may not be able to survive once he’s born,” Newkirk added. “This decision should’ve been left to us. Now we’re left wondering what kind of life he’ll have, and we’re going to be the ones raising him.”

Previously, Newkirk expressed discontent at the lack of say the family had concerning Smith’s body. “It should have been left up to the family,” she said. “I’m not saying that we would have chosen to terminate her pregnancy, but what I’m saying is, we should have had a choice.” The family also claims to have incurred the financial liability of keeping Smith technically alive.

She doubled down on her belief that the family should have been consulted about their wishes.

“We didn’t have a choice or a say about it,” Newkirk said before Chance’s delivery. “We want the baby. That’s a part of my daughter. But the decision should have been left to us, not the state.

Resources

Journal of BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

The post Adriana Smith’s Baby Delivered Via Cesarean appeared first on Black Health Matters.

And they are doing it for you.

Not for headlines. Not for sympathy. But because far too many Black men are still dying from a disease that is highly treatable when caught early. Because far too many families are blindsided by a diagnosis that could have been prevented or caught sooner. And because silence, especially among Black men, can cost lives.

Why This Story Matters—Right Now

Prostate cancer is a silent crisis in the Black community. Black men are 70% more likely to be diagnosed and twice as likely to die from the disease compared to white men. These aren’t just numbers. They are fathers, brothers, uncles, teammates, coaches, mentors—and they deserve better.

This Men’s Health Month, and especially this Father’s Day, the Houstons are urging Black men to change the narrative.

“We have to talk about it. We have to be intentional,” Allan Houston says. “Being proactive about your health is not just for you—it’s for the people who count on you. For the people you love.”

Houston, now Vice President of Player and Leadership Development with the New York Knicks, founder of FISLL, and a Board Member at ZERO Prostate Cancer, is also a prostate cancer survivor. Thirteen years after his father was diagnosed, he faced the disease himself. Their shared journey is now a rallying cry for intergenerational awareness and action.

A Conversation That Could Save Lives

Coach Wade Houston, the first Black head coach in the SEC and a man revered in the basketball world, wants Black men to hear this loud and clear: “Early detection can prevent a lot of the medical challenges that happen once it’s discovered,” he says. “You have to get tested—especially if it runs in your family.”

“Sometimes it is passed from grandfather to grandson, or father to son,” Coach Wade explains. And he was right to be concerned.

Years later, Allan noticed rising PSA levels—an early warning sign. “I had a heightened awareness,” he says. “When the numbers started to go up, we had deeper conversations. But until you live it, that’s when the real conversation starts.”

For both men, the experience was about more than medicine—it was spiritual, emotional, and deeply personal.

“I didn’t tell my kids right away,” Allan reflects. “I wanted to get through it first. But when I did, I told them: God has delivered us from a lot of things. This is just another one.”

Breaking the Cycle of Silence

Black men have long been taught to suffer in silence. Coach Wade knows this well. “For such a long time, it was taboo,” he says. “You didn’t talk about it. You didn’t go to the doctor. You didn’t share what was going on. But that’s the worst thing you can do. You need that support.”

Allan echoes that sentiment with a powerful sports metaphor: “In sports, you have to trust and communicate in real time. It’s the same with your health. Find someone you trust—your doctor, your brother, your father—and start the conversation.”

“So, you have to find someone that you trust. And for Black men, that is harder. We must be trustworthy, and we must trust someone. That’s the biggest thing for me, because once you do that,  you can have real conversations.”

This isn’t just about treatment. It’s about legacy. About survival. About love.

A Platform for Change

Earlier this year, Allan joined the Board of Directors at ZERO, the nation’s leading prostate cancer advocacy and support organization. And he’s not just lending his name—he’s leveraging his platform to reach the men who need to hear this message most.

ZERO’s Blitz the Barriers will combine education, outreach, and technology to break down barriers to equitable care across 12 highest-risk urban and rural communities over the next ten years.

ZERO’s new campaign, Blitz the Barriers, is the most ambitious project in the history of U.S. prostate cancer patient programs. The grassroots initiative aims to save 100K lives over the next 10 years by addressing critical disparities in prostate cancer outcomes head-on. Focused on education, outreach, and expanding access in 12 of the highest-risk communities, the effort is rooted in equity, urgency, and real, systemic change. And Allan’s voice and community partners like Black Health Matters are central to this effort.

“Talking about prostate cancer isn’t a weakness. It’s strength,” he says. “It’s being a leader. A protector. A father.”

Because this isn’t just a health issue—it’s a matter of life, legacy, and love. Watch Allan Houston’s powerful “New” Father’s Day PSA in partnership with ZERO Prostate Cancer BHM below.

The post A Game-Changing Conversation Between Father and Son appeared first on Black Health Matters.

“She’s free, and in His heavenly arms,” Emory wrote beside a series of broken heart emoji symbols. “Lord, rest her soul,” Emory added.

Remembering Ananda’s Treasured Voice

Lewis was one of the most significant voices in the ’90s and early aughts culture. She hosted The Ananda Lewis Show and co-hosted the popular video request series Total Request Live (TRL) on MTV. She also hosted the iconic BET series Teen Summit, where she tackled serious topics relevant to teenagers with compassion. She brought a fun, frothy energy to pop culture topics. Lewis interviewed some of the top names in entertainment, including Brandy, Mary J. Blige, and Destiny’s Child.

She respected her interview subjects and did her research. Her work helped cement cultural touchstones like MTV’s Spring Break and the NAACP Image Awards.

Ananda’s Breast Cancer Battle

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death for Black women in the United States.

“Black women have a higher incidence of breast cancer before the age of 40, more severe disease at all ages, and elevated mortality risk compared to white women,” according to a 2016 journal article published by The American Cancer Society. Black women have also received inconsistent screening recommendations. The Journal of the American Medical Association strongly suggested that Black women begin screening for breast cancer eight years earlier than their counterparts.

Lewis revealed that she was diagnosed with breast cancer in an Instagram post in October 2020. She used her platform to raise awareness and encourage women to get regular mammograms during breast cancer awareness month.

 

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A post shared by Ananda Lewis (@imanandalewis)

“This is tough for me, but if just ONE woman decides to get her mammogram after watching this, what I’m going through will be worth it,” she wrote in the caption for a six-minute video where she walked her followers through her diagnosis and treatment journeys.

Her diagnosis came after a self-examination she conducted after choosing not to get screened routinely.

“If I had done the mammograms from the time they were recommended when I turned 40, they would have caught the tumor in my breast years before I caught it through my own breast exam, self-exam, and thermography,” she said in the video.

Other Black celebrities, including Monyetta Shaw-Carter and Tina Knowles, have publicly shared their fights with breast cancer to raise awareness as well. Knowles revealed that her stage one cancer might have been detected earlier had she not chosen to skip mammograms.

Lewis commented on her battle with breast cancer during an interview for the January/February 2025 issue of ESSENCE magazine as well. She explained that she questioned the medical advice she was given initially after seeing what breast cancer treatments had done to others in her family. She opted to seek treatment at an integrative facility and make extreme lifestyle changes, including eliminating sugar from her diet and doing a cleanse.

“My goal was to do things that supported my body’s ability to continue to be whole enough to heal, instead of destroying it up front,” Lewis told Victoria Uwumarogie. “ I also couldn’t figure out how to fit the double mastectomy, the full chemotherapy, and, potentially, the radiation they were telling me to have into my already overwhelmed life. More importantly, these methods went against what I believed was right for my body.

Reassessing Assumptions About Access To Care

“Structural and personal factors continue to create barriers to mammography among Black women” and “The more advanced breast cancer stage at diagnosis in Black women when compared with the general population has been largely attributed to inequities in access to quality health care, including screening mammography,” according to the Journal of Policy, Politics, & Nursing Practice.

Some assume that every person they see on television has access to unlimited resources, but that is not always the case. Despite her fame and impact, Lewis faced struggles gaining access to the care she needed.

She described the financial barriers she faced following her stay at the integrative facility during her interview with ESSENCE.

“There are no residual checks. I’m a working single mom, and insurance doesn’t cover most of these treatments. When I got back, I was given a set of instructions for things I had to continue doing. But the money problem is a recurring problem. I struggled to pay for the ongoing treatments that would have kept things at bay, and then I lost my insurance,” continued Lewis.

This prolonged her path to receiving the appropriate care. The COVID-19 pandemic’s restrictions also impacted her ability to receive proper treatment. When she was ready to do surgery, non-emergency surgeries were not being scheduled due to concerns about the pandemic spreading.

“It was two and a half years before I could really do any more effective treatment,” she added.

Lewis continued to advocate for others throughout her life, frequently spreading the message that others should undergo screening.

Lewis is survived by Emory and her 14-year-old son, Langston. Our sincere condolences and prayers are with the loved ones of Lewis.

 

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Resources

Johns Hopkins University Press/Journal of Healthcare for the Poor and Underserved

American Cancer Society: Understanding and Effectively Addressing Cancer in Black Women

The Journal of the Medical Association.

Journal of Policy and Nursing Practice

The post Ananda Lewis, the Former TV Host & VJ Has Died at 52 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Stone’s family issued a statement announcing his passing to the media. “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone. After a prolonged battle with COPD and other underlying health issues, Sly passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three children, his closest friend, and his extended family,” they wrote.

Becoming Sly Stone

According to the New York Times, he was born as Sylvester Stewart in Denton, Texas, on March 15, 1943. He was the second of Alpha and K.C. Stewart’s children. The family moved west to Vallejo, California, where Mr. Stewart found work as a cleaner and a maintenance worker at a department store.

In 1952, He formed a gospel group with his three siblings called The Stewart Family Four. They released their first single, “On the Battlefield,” and “Walking in Jesus’ Name,” on the flip side, reflecting the family’s Pentecostal musical roots. Even then, Sylvester sang lead.

He got the nickname “Sly” when someone misspelled his first name. He learned to play the guitar and quickly acquired the skills to play other instruments.

Sly worked with every genre: Black bands, doo-wop groups, and interracial bands. Then he became a radio disc jockey.

According to The Times, in 1966, he was the leader of a band called Sly and the Stoners. The following year, he merged with the band his brother Freddie was playing with, and together they became Sly and the Family Stone.

Sly was on the organ, his brother, Freddie, played the guitar, Larry Graham played the bass, and a white drummer, Gregg Errico. Cynthia Robinson on trumpet, Jerry Martini on saxophone, and Sly’s sisters Rose, who played the keyboard and sang backup, and Vaetta, who also sang backup.

Together, the group created iconic hits. The band’s brand of glittering music was infectious. It brought joy to many wedding receptions and backyard barbecues. Generations have his work embedded into the soundtracks of their memories.

Sly and the Family Stone released their first studio album. “A Whole New Thing” in 1967, followed by “Life” in 1968. The group performed at the original Woodstock in 1969.

Songs like “I Want to Take You Higher,” “Everybody is a Star,” and “Dance To The Music” are inescapable earworms that have warmed up moments all over the world. During their height of popularity, from 1967 to 1982, they released ten studio albums, three live albums, and seven subsequent compilation albums. Sly and the Family Stone were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.

What Is COPD?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive, debilitating respiratory condition and currently the third leading cause of death in the United States,” according to the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. COPD is a leading concern in the Black community, as a 2021 article in the same journal reports that “COPD is increasingly being recognized as a major health problem in America’s multicultural Black population.”

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has labeled the chronic condition “1 of the top 10 causes of death in the United States.” There are higher morbidity rates for COPD in the Black community. COPD is treatable with medications, oxygen therapy, and other methods, but there is no cure for it.

Symptoms of COPD include shortness of breath, constant coughing, excessive wheezing, elevated heart rate, severe fatigue, and a tightness of the chest, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Many who fight COPD face recurring flare-ups. Symptoms can appear suddenly.

Because its symptoms overlap with several other diseases, it can be easy for COPD to be misdiagnosed. “A person may have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) but not notice symptoms until it is in the moderate stage,” according to the COPD Foundation.

Some individuals do not experience noticeable symptoms until they reach middle age.

The Academy Award-winning actor Louis Gossett Jr. died of COPD as well.

How Will Sly Stone Be Remembered?

Stone’s family members expressed respect and admiration for Stone’s artistic contributions in the statement. “While we mourn his absence, we take solace in knowing that his extraordinary musical legacy will continue to resonate and inspire for generations to come,” they continued. “Sly was a monumental figure, a groundbreaking innovator, and a true pioneer who redefined the landscape of pop, funk, and rock music. His iconic songs have left an indelible mark on the world, and his influence remains undeniable.”

Stone’s impressive life story was told in the memoir Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin). It depicted his rise to the top ranks of the music industry. His family revealed that his story would soon be coming to the screen.

Amir Questlove Thompson also made the documentary “Sly Lives! (aka the Burden of Black Genius)”, which is streaming on Hulu.

“In a testament to his enduring creative spirit, Sly recently completed the screenplay for his life story, a project we are eager to share with the world in due course, which follows a memoir published in 2024,” the family wrote.

“We extend our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayers during this difficult time. We wish peace and harmony to all who were touched by Sly’s life and his iconic music,” they concluded.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Stone/Stewart family.

 

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A post shared by Sly Stone (@slystoneofficial)

Resources

American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

COPD Foundation

The post Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone Has Died At 82 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

This Was Not  Coco Gauff’s First French Open Final

The first time Coco Gauff was in the French Open finals was in 2022. She was just 18 at the time and playing against the number one seed, Iga Swiatek from Poland, who easily beat Gauff in straight sets.

According to Talksport, during the awards, Gauff said, “This is the first time for me, so let’s try to get through this.”

Through a steady stream of tears, she also paid tribute to her opponent and her team.   But her thank you to the crowd, who kept cheering for her, is what everyone remembers.

“Thank you guys for always supporting me,” the American said. “Hopefully, this is the first final of many. I really appreciate you guys a lot. You guys helped me so much throughout this year.”

How Her First French Open Final Made Coco Gauff Doubt Herself

Gauff talks openly about that first experience because it left an indelible mark. After winning on Saturday, she reflected on how much that first loss at the French Open devastated her.

“I had dark thoughts because this was a tournament I really wanted to win. I paid attention to every detail. When the Polish anthem played, I vividly remember thinking, ‘this is such a cool moment.’

It was a tough time. I was doubting myself, wondering if I would ever succumb to it, especially my mentality going into the match.

I was crying going into the match. I couldn’t breathe, and if I couldn’t handle this, how could I handle anything else? How am I going to handle this again?

Obviously, the US Open happened. Now I really felt ready today, regardless of what happened. I can leave it all out there and leave here proud.”

How Coco Gauff Rises Above the Drama

Coco Gauff may have studied at the Audra McDonald school of grace because they are both unbothered by controversy. They focus on their talent and don’t get distracted in the muck and mire.

If you are unclear about what I am referencing, according to SI.com, when Aryna Sabalenka, the world’s top-ranked tennis player, spoke to reporters after their French Open Finals match, she was far from gracious. She didn’t think Gauff won because she was particularly good. It was because Sabalenka thought she had an off day.

“I think it was more windy. Also, I think I was over emotional,” Sabalenka said. “Today, I didn’t handle myself quite well mentally. Basically, that’s it. I was just making unforced errors. I don’t know. I have to check the statistics. I think she won the match not because she played incredibly. Just because I made all of those mistakes, if you look from the outside, from kind of easy balls.”

Only after being called out for her rude remarks, Sabalenka acknowledged that Gauff had earned the prize (which, of course, we already knew).

“Yesterday was a tough one. Coco handled the conditions much better than I did and fully deserved the win,” Sabalenka wrote. “She was the better player yesterday, and I want to give her the credit she earned…..I didn’t play my best, and Coco stepped up and played with poise and purpose.”

When Gauff appeared on GMA Monday, June 9, 2025, Robin Roberts asked her about Sabalenka’s comments. Gauff admitted that the wind had been a factor throughout the tournament. Some of her matches had been played with the roof open, others with it closed.

“Honestly, when I stepped on the court, I was aware of the wind. We both practiced with the roof closed,” she said. “I honestly wanted the roof to be closed before the match because in my quarter-final and semi it was closed and I was playing good tennis.

But I found it was open, I saw how windy it was on the court, and I knew it was going to be an ugly wind, she continued. “If you play in windy conditions, if you play tennis, you know it is not going to be a perfect day on a windy court. I knew that going in.

After that, she continued, I was a little surprised about the comments. But I am going to give her the benefit of the doubt. I am sure it was an emotional day, an emotional match.

Every time I play Aryna, she is a tough opponent. She is a fighter. We are 6-5 in head-to-head, so it’s very close. I had to force her to play that way.”

In an interview with another outlet, she put it more succinctly. “When the wind is blowing, you’re not going to win by playing pretty tennis.”

 

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Coco Gauff Leans on Positivity and Belief

When Gauff stopped at CBS Mornings, Nate Burleson asked the young champion if she ever had any self-doubt. She said yes.

“I have a lot of self-doubt. I talk openly about it because a lot of people deal with that in their everyday lives,” she said. “I try to redirect them into positive thoughts.

Even if you don’t truly believe them. Eventually, when those moments are tough and your back is against the wall, and you don’t know where to lean. Try leaning on positivity and belief.

That’s what carried me through that match and throughout the whole tournament.”

But even when she is winning, she remembers who she is.

According to ESPN.com, she said this in one of her post-win interviews. “There’s a lot going on in our country right now with things,” she said.

“But just to be able to be a representation of that and a representation of, I guess, people that look like me in America who maybe don’t feel as supported during this time period, and so just being that reflection of hope and light for those people.”

The post Coco Gauff Wins the 2025 French Open appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Shaw-Carter shared her experience candidly. After taking a private approach to seeking treatment for her breast cancer, the mom and entrepreneur wants to raise awareness by sharing what she went through. She rang the bell on May 2, 2025, after 16 rounds of radiation.

Her First Breast Cancer Scare

“I had a biopsy about 10 years ago and it came back benign,” said Shaw-Carter. Her eventual 2024 diagnosis came after the result of a self-examination.

“Then last year in September I was doing a self-check because I felt this random sensation that I can’t really describe in my left boob. It was like nothing I’ve ever felt before. It was literally like my body was alerting me that something was wrong,” she continued.

There are conflicting medical opinions about the merits of self-breast exams. According to the Centers for Disease Control, “Being familiar with how your breasts look and feel can help you notice symptoms such as lumps, pain, or changes in size that may be of concern.”

In Shaw-Carter’s case, conducting a self-examination was helpful. The exam revealed to her that something had changed in her body prior to her meeting with a doctor. She prioritized getting further testing.

 Necessary Screenings Were Done Quickly

The following month, she got a mammogram that revealed she was dealing with stage 1 invasive ductal carcinoma. This kind of breast cancer is extremely common. Patients diagnosed with this kind of cancer have many treatment options available.

Shaw-Carter opted for a lumpectomy and radiation after reviewing the methods that could work for her specific situation. Unlike a full mastectomy, a lumpectomy involves removing the cancerous tissue inside the breasts as opposed to removing the entire breast from the body.

She Considered Her Options and Did Genetic Testing Before Making a Treatment Decision

While doing all of the biopsies and MRIs, I was first considering having a double mastectomy. But after my genetic testing came back favorable, and after sitting in my reality for some time, I decided on the lumpectomy,” said Shaw-Carter.

Those who do not routinely receive mammograms are more likely to be diagnosed in stage 3 or 4. Shaw-Carter advocated for taking a proactive approach to getting regular screenings.

“Because I caught the cancer early, I will be here for my kids,” she said. “There’s nothing more important than getting checked often and early to protect your future. Our health is irreplaceable.”

Early detection is important in all breast cancer cases, but studies indicate that it is even more crucial for Black women, who are significantly more likely to lose their lives from it. The Journal of Breast Cancer Research reports that “Breast cancer mortality rates are 40% higher in Black women compared to White women.” For Black women over the age of 50, the disparity in survival rates is even higher.

 Having Breast Cancer Can be Mentally and Emotionally Taxing.

Breast cancer impacts more than the body. It can have a severe mental and emotional toll. “It is a challenging disease that induces a crisis in the patient’s psychological balance and is perceived as a disaster in the eyes of the patient,” according to The Journal of Breast Health. Breast cancer, because of its association with traditional expectations of femininity, can compound these non-physical side effects even further.
Shaw-Carter described how she initially felt about her diagnosis. “It was obviously one of the hardest and scariest moments of my life,” she said. “Everything around me stopped. My heart dropped. I was afraid. I was angry. I was just numb,” she added.

She posted about her current state of mind in a recent Instagram post celebrating her 45th birthday, in which she wore a pink column gown adorned with rectangle-shaped crystals. It was a carousel post. She wore pink boxing gloves, pink boxing trunks, and a pink satin robe in another picture, symbolizing her fight against breast cancer during the previous year of her life.

As a Survivor, Shaw-Carter is Grateful to Be Here.

Shaw-Carter described herself as “stronger than ever” and expressed gratitude for those who supported her throughout the journey, including her family, friends, and the healthcare workers who cared for her.

“This birthday is more than candles and cake…it’s a celebration of life, a reflection of pain & purpose, of healing, and God’s grace. I’ve faced one of the biggest battles of my life… and I WON!!!”

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A post shared by Monyetta Shaw-Carter (@monyettashaw)

Resources:

University of Rochester: Breast Self-Exams Are No Longer Recommended- Here’s What to Do Instead.

Centers for Disease Control: Screening for Breast Cancer

National Cancer Foundation/Invasive Ductal Carcinoma

Breast Cancer Research Foundation: Black Women and Cancer Disparities: Why They Exist and How to End Them.

The Journal of Breast Cancer Research (Addition of polygenic risk score to a risk calculator for prediction of breast cancer in US Black women)

The Journal for Breast Health (Psychiatric Symptoms and Psychosocial Problems in Patients with Breast Cancer)

The post Monyetta Shaw-Carter Shares Her Breast Cancer Battle appeared first on Black Health Matters.

A Performance Worth Waiting For

When the 59-year-old took the stage, she gave us every reason to believe that fitness is one of the keys to longevity. In a tank, baggy jeans, and a white jacket, she sang a medley that included “Someone to Call My Lover and All For You.” She strutted and moved across the length of that stage and down those stairs with nothing to prove, and we loved it. She is an icon after all.

An Inspiring Word About Her Work

But Janet doesn’t see herself that way. In her acceptance speech,  “I am so honored and grateful,” she began. “I mean no disrespect in any way, but I don’t consider myself an icon,” she said. “My family, myself, our dream was to, it wasn’t ever to be famous…we weren’t raised like that. We always had a special love for music, dancing, and singing.”

“Fame came as a result of hard work and dedication. My story, my family’s story, is truly an American story. This could have only happened in America,” Janet continued. “The one thing that I hope for is that I have been an inspiration to others and artists to follow their dreams and succeed.”

While Janet hasn’t performed on television in years, she has been touring consistently since 2023, with 47 concerts in 2023, 58 last year. Janet has extended her Resorts World residency in Las Vegas into later this year with dates added in September.

For Fitness Inspiration, check out the Guru of Abs workouts.

The post Janet Jackson Takes Home the AMA ICON Award appeared first on Black Health Matters.

He Led a Life of Service

Rangel, known as Charlie to many of his friends, was the last of New York’s Gang of Four. An influential quartet of Black leaders, which included New York City Mayor David  Dinkins, New York Secretary of State Basil Patterson, and Percy Sutton, a lawyer and civil rights activist whose collective influence was far-reaching for decades.

Rangel was born on June 11, 1930. According to his congressional biography, he attended Dewitt Clinton High School, received a Bachelor of Science from New York University’s School of Commerce, and obtained his Juris Doctorate from St. John’s University Law School. Rangel was a veteran of the Korean War, and also served as Assistant US State Attorney of the Southern District of New York, and counsel to the New York State Assembly, and a member of the New York State Assembly before running for Congress.

In 1964, he married Alma Carter, a social worker he met at The Savoy Ballroom. She preceded him in death. He is survived by his son, Steven; daughter, Alicia Rangel Haughton; and three grandsons.

Charles Rangel’s Legacy Will Be Remembered

Rangel was a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus. The organization’s Chair, Yvette D. Clark, and members issued the following statement:

“It is with deep respect and profound sadness that we mourn the passing of former Congressman Charles B. Rangel of New York. On behalf of the 61 members of the Congressional Black Caucus, I extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.

“Congressman Rangel was the very definition of a life devoted to public service. Born in Harlem in 1930, he served with distinction in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, earning both the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for his courage and sacrifice. His commitment to serving others continued in the halls of the New York State Assembly and then the United States Congress, where he represented his community and country for nearly 50 years.

“A trailblazer and statesman, Congressman Rangel was a founding member and former Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus. He made history as the first African American to chair the powerful House Ways and Means Committee in the House of Representatives. Known affectionately as the Lion of Lenox Avenue”, his legacy is one of tireless advocacy, historic firsts, and unwavering dedication to justice and equality. May he rest in power and everlasting peace.”

We extend our sincere condolences to the Rangel family.

The post Charles B. Rangel, Former NY Congressman Has Died at 94 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

“We’re having a really hard time because my Aunt Bertha has Alzheimer’s,” Burruss told viewers of the live-streaming session.

We are twice as likely to get Alzheimer’s

“Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that mostly affects the elderly population worldwide, and which is characterized by a progressive decline in cognitive function,” according to the Journal of Biomedical Science. The CDC reports that it is a type of dementia that impacts 6.5 million people. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience reports that Black Americans are twice as likely to develop dementia as others.

Get familiar with the symptoms of Alzheimer’s

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease can include severe memory loss, a drastic shift in personality, physical and psychological aggression, and sudden mood swings. It is a disease that can be extremely difficult for loved ones and caregivers to support the afflicted person through. They are forced to watch them transform into someone unfamiliar. This can cause mental and emotional distress.

How may this diagnosis impact Burruss, her family, and   the restaurant

“If anyone’s ever dealt with somebody in your family going through that, and it gets worse, it’s not easy,” continued Burruss. “So…it’s a time.” She regained her composure after briefly appearing distressed due to the intimacy of the topic.

Burruss went on to change the subject, expressing that she did want to get “emotional” when discussing her aunt.

Old Lady Gang is a soul food eatery that offers “delicious down-home Southern recipes” developed by Jones, Burruss’ mother, “Mama” Joyce Jones, and Burruss’ other aunt, Nora Wilcox. Burruss and her husband, Todd Tucker, came up with the idea for the restaurant in 2016. The family shared their journey opening Old Lady Gang on The Real Housewives of Atlanta, where Burruss was a cast member.

Bertha played a minor role with a major impact on the reality show. She became a fan favorite when she uttered the memorable catchphrase “a scheme that Todd set up” during episode 13 of season 7. This is often quoted on social media, where people mimic her memorable expression during the scene. Patrons flooded the restaurant, hoping for a glimpse of Bertha’s trademark snark to accompany their meals.

Alzheimer’s and Women, Especially Black Women

Women have double the chance of being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease as men.

A 2023 article in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience reported that Black women have a “disproportionately high risk” for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

The same article detailed how Black women face barriers to accessing treatment that could diagnose them faster and help them navigate. Those barriers are particularly troubling as many are not diagnosed during the preclinical phase, where symptoms have not yet begun manifesting in the patient.

This phase often occurs in midlife, and recent studies have theorized that there could be a connection between Alzheimer’s disease and the onset of perimenopause and menopause.

But in our day-to-day lives, The Journal of PEC Innovation reports that we don’t have an acute perception of the risks hanging over our heads in our community about developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Our Lifestyle Puts Us at Increased Risk for Dementia

Lifestyle can impact one’s risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease. The CDC identifies binge drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, and failing to exercise routinely as modifiable habits to reduce risk.

Other risks for Alzheimer’s disease include the presence of cerebrovascular diseases, depression, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and dyslipidemia.

Resources

 Neurodegenerative Disorders

Journal of Biomedical Science: Alzheimer’s disease risk factors 

Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience: Black Americans are twice as likely to develop dementia as others

NIH: What Are the Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease?

Nature Medicine: Women are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s as men, but scientists don’t know why.

The post Kandi Burruss Reveals Her Aunt Bertha Has Alzheimer’s Disease appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Today Show fans knew Jones had been absent from our television screen for some time. On January 15th, she posted a quick note on Instagram that said.

“Hi everybody… I sincerely appreciate all of you who have reached out while I’ve been absent from the show. I want to share with you that I’m taking time to deal with a family health matter. It’s not lost on me how lucky I am to have not only the support of my Today Show family, but to also have all of you. Your kindness means so much to me. I’ll see you soon. Love, Sheinelle”

Jones and Ojech,45, were married for 17 years. In the tribute the show gave to him, they called her Jones’ perfect match, “whose joyful strength and quiet demeanor complemented her in every way.” The two were fortunate to have met early in life; he was a high school senior when she gave him a campus tour of Northwestern University as a freshman in the late 90s. They dated for eight years, and he proposed on that campus in a rainstorm. Jones and Ojech got married in Philadelphia, her hometown, in 2007. They had three children: a son, Kayan, and twins, Clara and Uche.

While Jones built a career in broadcast journalism, Ojeh became a successful consultant. He was also a soccer player, sang in his church choir, was a triathlete, and was devoted to Nigerian heritage and family, which he instilled in his children.

Melvin said, “One thing we always talked about was his kids. He loved his kids more than anything else in this world. He was just so proud,” the host continued. “He was that dad who was on the sidelines, every soccer game, he was at all of the concerts, and all the recitals. He was that guy!” (check out the whole segment below).

Our sincere condolences to Sheinelle, Kayan, Clara, Uche, and their families.

What is Glioblastoma?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, glioblastoma is the most common type of malignant brain cancer in adults. “It starts in a glial cell in your spinal cord called an astrocyte. Cancer cells rapidly grow and multiply. They can spread into other areas of your brain and spinal cord.” More than 13,000 Americans are diagnosed with GBM every year. Symptoms include vision changes, memory problems, headaches, and seizures.

While there is currently no cure, promising new treatments are making progress, and we are hopeful that one day, there will be a cure.

 

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References

For more information on the symptoms and treatment of glioblastoma, check out:

Mayo Clinic: Treatment and Causes of Glioblastoma

The Cleveland Clinic has developed new research strategies for glioblastoma.

The post Today Show co-host Sheinelle Jones’ husband, Uche Ojeh, has died appeared first on Black Health Matters.

According to the New York Times, prostate cancer experts say that once the disease has spread to the bones, however, it cannot be cured. Dr. Judd Moul, a prostate cancer expert at Duke, told the Times that men whose prostate cancer has spread “can live five, seven, 10 or more years.”

President Biden’s announcement came as a shock to everyone. Black Health Matters joins in outpouring prayers and well wishes for him and his family. Yesterday, he posted this message on social media:

“Cancer touches us all. Like many of you, Jill and I have learned that we are strongest in the broken places. Thank you for lifting us up with love and support.”

How Prostate Cancer Impacts Black Men

The former President’s diagnosis made us think about how prostate cancer impacts us both professionally and personally. I spoke with Brian Bragg, Chief Mission Officer at ZERO Prostate Cancer,  about why this is also a moment for Black men to take prostate cancer screening seriously. “Prostate cancer adversely impacts Black men in particular; sounding the alarm for them is all about early detection.”

According to research done by the Institute of Cancer Research, Black men are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer as white men because of the disparities in the accessibility of care.

Further research confirms this. “Persistent disparities in treatment for AA and emerging disparities in Hispanic men, regardless of stage at presentation, likely represent a significant predictor of higher mortality in underserved populations,” Kelvin A. Moses, MD, PhD, of Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, Tennessee, and colleagues concluded in Urology. Dr. Moses also serves on the board of ZERO Prostate Cancer.

“So, if one in eight men overall are affected by prostate cancer, for Black men, it is one in six. There is also a higher rate of disparity for veterans, those in the military, and rural areas,” Bragg says.

“All of those are high-risk communities. And we need to be mindful that they are accessing care and are having conversations with their healthcare providers about PSA testing starting at age 40.”

How Prostate Exam Testing Has Changed

Bragg wants to remind men that prostate exams have evolved from intrusive physical exams to blood tests, which are done to establish the baseline levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood and the frequency at which the testing needs to be repeated.

If prostate cancer is caught early, Bragg points out that there is a high survival rate. “Even if you ‘re diagnosed at an advanced stage, there are still therapies and modalities that can help you; it isn’t an immediate death sentence,” he explains.

Symptoms That Need to Be Checked Out

While prostate cancer can go mostly undetected without a PSA test, some symptoms should send you to the doctor for immediate overall testing, Bragg points out:

• Difficulty urinating
• Urinating often, especially at night
• Burning or pain during urination
• Blood or pain during urination

These symptoms could point to potential problems with your prostate. It is better to err on the side of caution than to self-treat and find out you have an advanced case later.

If You Have Been Diagnosed, There is Hope

If you are a Black man diagnosed with prostate cancer, organizations like ZERO Prostate Cancer have resources available that help you navigate everything from diagnosis to treatment choices to finding peer support and caregiver support.

Black Health Matters Resources

For additional information on prostate cancer prevention and treatment, check out these articles and videos from Black Health Matters:

50 Questions To Ask Your Doctor if Your Family Has a History of Prostate Cancer

What to Do After a Prostate Cancer Diagnosis

Additional Resources

Prostate Cancer Statistics

Institute of Cancer Research Study

Racial Disparities in Prostate Health

The post Former President Biden’s Prostate Cancer: Black Men Pay Attention appeared first on Black Health Matters.

“Brain death, also commonly referred to as death by neurologic criteria, has been considered a legal definition of death for decades” and “although functions of many of the body’s organ systems can be artificially supported, the brain is the main control system governing vital bodily functions,” according to the Journal of Intensive Care.

The medical professionals charged with Smith’s care are unable to withdraw the breathing tubes from her body due to the potential impact on the fetus she is carrying, per the Associated Press. Their inaction has been credited to what some are calling a “fetal heartbeat bill.”

Smith sought assistance for a severe headache before being declared brain dead. She was sent home without scans that would have shown multiple blood clots on her brain. Her boyfriend found her in distress. She was rushed to the hospital, but it was too late for an effective intervention. The ineffectiveness of those tasked with her care reflects the type of systemic racial discrimination many Black women face.

Smith’s Mother, April Newkirk, dubbed this situation “preventable.” It has brought sadness and stress to their family, including Smith’s five-year-old son.

Traditionally, families are tasked with complete medical decision-making on behalf of incapacitated loved ones. Choices about whether or not to remove ventilators and other partially life-preserving measures are made by families daily.

This case is unique as Smith cannot advocate for herself, and her loved ones have been disempowered by these complicated legal measures. They were not given a choice. It raises questions about the role of family wishes in a climate where legislation plays a larger role than ever in healthcare decisions. Physicians have differing opinions on the ethical considerations associated with posthumous reproduction.

Smith’s mother commented on the distress she is experiencing with her daughter’s physical being continuing to be kept partially alive despite her lack of brain function in an interview with an affiliate of NBC News.

“It’s torture for me,” said Newkirk. “I see my daughter breathing, but she’s not there.”

“It should have been left up to the family,” Newkirk continued during her interview with the station. She revealed that the fetus has significant health issues, according to updates she received during an interview with local news outlet 11 Alive.

“He may be blind, may not be able to walk, may not be able to survive once he’s born,” Newkirk said. “This decision should’ve been left to us. Now we’re left wondering what kind of life he’ll have, and we’re going to be the ones raising him.”

She did not express her family’s wishes in either direction. She merely stated her feelings about not being allowed to make the choice on her daughter’s behalf. “I’m not saying that we would have chose to terminate her pregnancy, but what I’m saying is, we should have had a choice,” she added when speaking to the NBC affiliate.

Smith is now 21 weeks pregnant. There are reportedly plans to keep her on life support until she is at 32 weeks and the fetus can be delivered. Newkirk told 11 Alive that the process would lead to “More cost, more trauma, more questions.”

Georgia has one of the most restrictive reproductive health environments in the nation. “In 2019, Georgia House Bill 481 (HB 481) passed by a narrow margin, banning abortions upon detection of embryonic cardiac activity, as early as six weeks of gestation,” according to the Journal of Sexual and Reproductive Health Matters. The bill, signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp, was initially overturned by the Fulton County Superior Court. Later, following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court of Georgia permitted the controversial law to be reinstated.

Smith’s family is not only grieving the loss of the 30-year-old mother and nurse they loved. According to Newkirk’s NBC interview, they are also potentially incurring financial obligations associated with her sustained treatment by the hospital.

This case has become a lightning rod for grim discourse surrounding the impact of abortion bans on pregnant individuals and their families. Pundits, activists, and commentators have raised concerns about what a person being incapacitated means for their reproductive health.

It is not the first Georgia case to garner attention following the ban’s enactment. Social media mourned the life of another Georgia mother and medical professional named Amber Thurman in 2022. Thurman died after she was unable to gain access to reproductive care, according to reporting from ProPublica.

The American Journal of Public Health theorized that adverse healthcare outcomes could arise from delays in abortion care for those affected by Georgia’s stringent abortion regulations in 2015.

Other states, including Mississippi, South Carolina, Alabama, Louisiana, West Virginia, and Kentucky, have similar austere approaches to reproductive healthcare access.

We can never forget Adriana Smith; she is more than a body.

Resources:

Journal of Intensive Care

Journal Racial Ethnic Health Disparities

AMA Journal of Ethics

Journal of Sexual and Reproductive Matters

ProPublica

American Journal of Public Health

The post Do Abortion Bans Top Family Rights? The Adriana Smith Story appeared first on Black Health Matters.

And there are so many Cassies we know and don’t know all around us; 40% of Black women will experience domestic violence in their lives, according to a study by The Institute of Policy Research. Some of them will lose their lives to intimate partner violence.

Yes it Happened

Cassie, like many victims of domestic abuse, had her experiences questioned. Denial can sometimes invalidate a woman’s lived experience because, according to Martha E. Banks, Ph.D, a Research Neuropsychologist, ‘Women are sometimes victims of romantic terrorism, coercive romanticism,” she says. “To victims, as well as people in the victims’ networks, the abuser appears to be especially loving. The abuse is private, but the public appearance is overwhelmingly — and exaggeratedly — loving.”

While the tape may have triggered some who were victims of domestic violence, others were emboldened to speak about their experiences. Dr. Banks says, “The release of this and similar videos can provide validation to victims who are repeatedly told by abusers that there is no abuse. It is sometimes easier to perceive and be outraged by the abuse of someone else than to recognize that victims themselves do not deserve abuse.”

Power Dynamics Lead to Isolation

One of the drawbacks of social media is that everyone has become an expert on everything. And we have opinions on things we know nothing about, even complicated issues like domestic violence. However, it is critical to understand that there are more factors to consider before we tell a woman to “just leave.”

“There are multiple power dynamics involved. Emotional abuse, which is present as a component of all abuse, includes isolation. Such isolation can prevent victims from financially supporting themselves, so victims remain in relationships because they cannot access paths to independence.” Dr. Banks explains. “Emotional abuse includes repeatedly telling victims that they deserve the abuse because they are “bad” people.”

The Cycle of Domestic Violence

Dr. Banks points out that we primarily know bout explosions.  “Early in the relationship, explosions are generally followed by denial — either that nothing really happened or that it wasn’t really all that bad.  Then there is a honeymoon phase — flowers, candy, romantic dinners,” she explains. “Then, the tension builds, and there’s another explosion.  After a while, the honeymoon disappears, and the cycle is just explosion, denial, and tension. Then, the denial disappears, and all that’s left are periods of tension and violent explosions.  If the downward spiral is not stopped, it ends when somebody dies.”

As we read the news about more Black and Brown women losing their lives as a result of intimate partner violence, Dr. Banks points out that there is a critical lack of information available, and the information available predates the COVID-19 pandemic. “It is important to note that increased access to gun ownership in the United States has led to increased intimate partner homicide,” Dr. Banks concludes.

The post To All The Cassies Known and Unknown appeared first on Black Health Matters.

In an interview with Lala Anthony for Vogue, Miss Ross said attending the gala was a very last-minute decision. “Everything was at the last moment. My son persuaded me, because I’m actually on tour. He said ‘Mom, you’ve gotta go.”

Miss Ross hasn’t been to the Met Gala in 22 years, but she returned in spectacular style in what she called a “forever family gown,” designed by Nigerian designer Ugo Mozie.

What makes this shawl even more amazing is that the underside of the 18-foot train was embroidered with the names of each of her five children and eight grandchildren. She said the designer “turned her vision into a tapestry of love.” A custom hat designed by Sarah Sokol Milinery, trimmed with feathers, topped off her ensemble.

Her son Evan Ross was her escort. Her daughter Tracee Ellis Ross also attended the gala but arrived later.

Miss Ross’s return to the Met Gala was a buzzworthy event for many. People captured the occasion with a rare photo shoot of the former Supremes lead singer with her children and grandchildren.

Zendaya walked the carpet shortly after Miss Ross, wearing a white suit and hat reminiscent of one worn by Miss Ross in character Tracy Chambers in Mahogany. Her influence echoes through generation after generation and refers to her and “the reference” for her look.”

Meanwhile, Miss Ross is still showing us what it means to flip the script on aging daily. She is heading to the UK, Paris, the North Sea Jazz Festival, the Montreux Jazz Festival, before appearing at the Hollywood Bowl in July.

 

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About Older Americans Month: Historically, it has been a time to acknowledge past and current older persons in our country.

The post Diana Ross Flips the Script on Aging at The Met Gala appeared first on Black Health Matters.

As a 20-year cancer survivor, Simone has a unique lens on health and prevention; this was true for her even before her cancer diagnosis. “I’ve always been in tune with my body. Staying up-to-date with my doctor’s appointments was very important. You gotta go to the GYN and to the medical doctor. You have to get your annual blood test,” she explained.

“And I’ve done that with my children, too. So with my cancer journey, they watched me. It’s about taking care of yourself, paying attention to your body. Nobody knows your body the way you know your body, right?” Simone continued. “We always talked to our children about health, going to the gym, eating well, taking vitamins, and supplements. So that plays a big role in our house.”

LL COOL J added that he has always been into exercise and fitness, and his children have seen him in the gym all their lives. “Since day one, they’ve been watching me in the gym,” he said. “They all work out and believe in the power of being physically fit.”

He also explained that he was first motivated to work out 40 years ago by guys in the neighborhood who would go away for a long time and come back bulked up. He noticed how they had created a positive outcome from a negative situation.

The then up-and-coming rapper took that as a cue.”I can be fit. But I don’t have to go away or get into trouble to get in the best shape I can be,” LL COOL J said. “Taking care of your body, early detection, and awareness are the keys. You are the architect of your own fortune.”

LL COOL J and Simone I. Smith have partnered with Pfizer to promote using the American    Cancer Society Cancer Risk360 assessment tool, which will help us understand our cancer risk factors. Check it out at PfizerforAll.

The couple agreed that the partnership felt like a natural alignment because of Simone’s previous cancer diagnosis and the program’s emphasis on early diagnosis. “You know, she got a bump on her leg and then paid attention to it and went and got detected early,” he said. “So, it was a natural connection between what Pfizer was doing with PfizerforAll and what we went through in our journey.”

Simone agreed and talked about how this partnership aligned with the work she is already doing with her successful jewelry line, Simone I Smith Jewelry. “I create pieces to uplift and empower, and it is important to give people hope and faith, so a lot of my designs inspire that,” she noted. “Maybe a year into launching my brand, I gave a portion of the proceeds to the American Cancer Society; it was something I wanted to do as a 20-year cancer survivor.”

“Especially because science is everything. The more you give, the more they can research, and the more they can find cures for all these different cancer forms,” Simone continued.

“So partnering for this campaign came very naturally. Because it is all about early detection, it’s all about getting your scans. Early detection is what saved my life. I could have been somebody who didn’t pay it any mind, but early detection absolutely saves lives.”

It is no small feat for LL COOL J to reach four decades in hip hop. We have seen so many legends leave us before their time. With Rock The Bells, he can create a legacy with intentionality. “Rock The Bells ” is about hip hop culture’s preservation, elevation, and innovation. And so, you know, for me, you have to do something bigger than you in life. You have to think two, three, four hundred years from now, 1000 years from now,” he said. “And you want to do something that’s gonna maximize your potential on earth, and set the world up to be a better place than when you came.”

LL COOL J said he could have focused his energy on his career so that it was solely financially rewarding, but it would not have been spiritually rewarding for him. 

“So, I started Rock The Bells so some of the people who helped lay the foundation for me, who helped pave the way for me, could have access to the type of insights, creativity, and energy I put into my projects. That’s why I have the channel on Sirius XM, Rock The Bells Radio, that’s why we have the Festival, and collaborations with Simone I. Smith,” he continued. “That’s why I do all the things, give the early pioneers and icons jobs, embrace younger artists and introduce them to audiences that may not know them, mashing those generations together, which to me is super important.”

Music is still a driving force in LL COOL J’s heart and mind. “Music isn’t a cure, but boy, life would be miserable without music and hip hop,” he said. “There is something spiritually rewarding on a deep level in hip hop culture in the music,  and the people, and what it does for us as human beings.”

Go to Pfizerall.com to check out the American Cancer Society CancerRisk360 assessment tool.

The post LL COOL J & Simone I. Smith On Putting Our Health First appeared first on Black Health Matters.

King noted that the American Cancer Society recommends a mammogram every one to two years for women over 55. Knowles missed hers during the COVID pandemic and forgot to reschedule it until last year. And that’s when doctors found two tumors. One was benign, the other had Stage One cancer.

“It was Stage One, which I thought was the earliest stage. But when I told my sister, she said no, there’s actually a stage 0.’ If I had gone for my mammogram, they would have caught it in the zero stage. Thank God, it was very small and it hadn’t spread.”

Knowles had a very slow spreading cancer and chose a lumpectomy procedure to remove the tumor from her left breast. She told King how all her girls came to the hospital, told her jokes, and showed her videos to make her laugh.

“But then I thought about the song ‘Walk With Me,’ that they used to sing all the time,” she said, getting emotional.”Michelle wasn’t there, Solange filled in, Angie sang, and they sang “Walk With Me.” It’s about God walking with you and protecting you.” Knowles said she felt protected as she walked into the surgery.

Last October, Knowles was honored as Glamour’s Woman of the Year, but she was almost unable to attend because of a complication after surgery. She contracted a terrible infection.

In her acceptance speech, she said, “I’ve been so blessed in my life to do many things.  I’ve had many careers. But I’ve always said that the best job that I’ve had in my life is being a mother. I’ve had the privilege of raising and helping to raise four daughters. Two that were born to me, and two that were a gift to me from God. You know, I was somewhat of a rebellious teen and young adult, and I didn’t always follow the rules, but the day that I became a mother, I decided that this was the one thing that wouldn’t screw up.”

Ms. Knowles has a little anxiety putting her book into the world to be scrutinized because people always have something to say. She said her book was initially 1,000 pages, and she had to whittle things down. “I hope people will be inspired by the things I have overcome.”

Note: In 2021, Ms Knowles’ ex-husband, Matthew, revealed his breast cancer diagnosis. 

 

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The post Tina Knowles Reveals Breast Cancer Diagnosis in “Matriarch” appeared first on Black Health Matters.

In a tight race where she received 52% of the vote, the mayor-elect said in a statement, “I accept your choice with a deep sense of responsibility, humility, and love.”

The special election followed the recall of former Mayor Sheng Thao, a decision driven by frustrations over governance and rising crime, compounded by an FBI investigation that led to her indictment. The recall itself reflected a growing demand for change in Oakland’s leadership. Mayor-elect Lee’s opponent, Loren Taylor, ran a strong campaign, pitching himself as a fresh voice who could tackle crime and revitalize the city’s economy. While Taylor resonated with some voters, Mayor Lee’s deep ties to the community and decades of experience ultimately gave her the edge.

For over twenty years, Mayor-elect Lee represented Oakland in Congress, becoming known nationwide for her commitment to her principles and her dedication to equity. Her congressional career included pivotal moments, such as her lone vote against military action after 9/11.

Now, as Mayor-elect, she’s shifting her focus to local issues and is determined to make an immediate impact.

Oakland, a city with a population of about 430,000, is known for its vibrant diversity and progressive history. It’s the birthplace of the Black Panther Party and has long been a hub for social movements. But the city faces many challenges. Homeless encampments, public drug use, and crime have all become pressing concerns. Economic struggles have added to the strain, with a growing budget deficit leaving the city strapped for resources. Even California Governor Gavin Newsom has stepped in, deploying Highway Patrol officers to support crime prevention efforts.

Mayor-elect Barbara Lee is hitting the ground running with her “Plan for the First 100 Days,” tackling Oakland’s challenges with a mix of bold ideas and practical solutions. Public safety is front and center. She’s bringing together police leadership and business representatives to create coordinated strategies while deploying crews to clear fire hazards in high-risk areas. On homelessness, she’s focused on securing funding from Alameda County to expand housing and support services for unhoused residents.

Economic growth is another priority, with plans to streamline city processes for small businesses and collaborate with Oakland’s largest employers on initiatives that benefit the entire community. She’s also committed to modernizing city governance, appointing a task force to strengthen accountability and reform Oakland’s Charter.

And let’s not forget the basics: Mayor-elect Lee is staffing crews to tackle illegal dumping and blight, auditing city contracts to ensure funds are spent wisely, and pushing for a budget stabilizing Oakland’s finances while prioritizing public safety.

In the words of Mayor-elect Lee: “We must not be a city divided, but a community united. I’ll bring people together, such as Labor and Business, and work to solve Oakland’s toughest challenges. As Mayor, I’ll lead a government that serves the people, not special interests. Let’s work to stabilize our city’s budget and deliver the services you rely on.”

While her win is the beginning of a political shift for the city, it’s also a big step forward for representation. Oakland has deep roots in Black history, and Mayor-elect Lee’s leadership marks an important step forward for equity and representation. As her tenure begins, residents are watching closely, hopeful that her leadership style and track record will be what Oakland needs to turn the page and move toward a brighter future.

On Easter, she mentioned that her top ten priorities were tackling the city’s $130 million budget deficit. Today, the mayor-elect held her first press conference, and she said,

“Public safety, meeting with our police chief and department heads, looking at all the issues, unsheltered population, moving forward with economic development and creation of jobs.”

Votes need to be certified before Mayor-elect Lee can get down to business. She won’t be sworn in until mid-to-late May, and since this was a special election, there will be another election next year.

Resources:

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/19/us/barbara-lee-oakland-mayor.html

https://abc7news.com/post/barbara-lee-holds-first-press-conference-oakland-mayor-elect-winning-tight-race/16216920/

Priorities — Barbara Lee for Oakland Mayor | Official Campaign Website

The post Barbara Lee is Oakland’s New Mayor appeared first on Black Health Matters.

“This is me doing a full smile by the way,” he said in the video, laughing in disbelief. “I can’t even laugh right, bro. Oh my God!”

Lil Nas X, who is 26, urged fans not to feel sorry for him. He was doing his best to joke his way through this.

People reported that fans, including Taraji P. Henson and Wanda Sykes, sent their well wishes. “In the comment section, Lil Nas X fans and some of his celebrity friends voiced their concern. Taraji P. Henson wrote, “Get well baby .” Wanda Sykes commented, “Get well, love. Sometimes your body tells you to sit down somewhere. Rest up..”

 

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A few days later, the rapper reported feeling better, according to a story on Billboard: “The Hotbox MC provided an update via his Instagram stories. “It’s much better, it’s much better,” he assured viewers, adding, “my eye still has to play catch-up. But like, but like I can give a genuine smile, so that’s good. I’m still winkin’ at mothaf–kers, but…. yeah.”

To date, Lil Nas X has not revealed his diagnosis, but there could be several causes (which fans and social media onlookers have speculated about:

Bell’s Palsy

According to the Cleveland Clinic, Bell’s Palsy temporarily weakens or paralyzes facial muscles. It occurs when the seventh cranial nerve is swollen or inflamed. Stress, a viral infection, autoimmune diseases, and other factors can cause this. Those with this condition develop a droopy appearance on one—or sometimes both—sides of their faces. The condition isn’t serious and will go away in a few months with or without treatment.

Ramsey-Hunt Syndrome

Some fans have speculated that Lil Nas X may be suffering from the same condition that Justin Bieber had, which can impact anyone who had chickenpox. According to the Mayo Clinic, Ramsey-Hunt Syndrome symptoms can present in two ways: a painful rash in and around one ear or facial weakness and paralysis on the same side as the affected ear.

Other things can cause facial paralysis, including a stroke, a brain tumor, Lyme disease, and an MS flare-up.

We wish Lil Nas X a continued recovery.

The post Lil Nas X Is Still Recovering After Experiencing Facial Paralysis appeared first on Black Health Matters.

 

 

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How many women die every day because of preventable childbirth or other pregnancy-related events or conditions? The CDC estimates around 800. This startling statistic is just one of the many reasons maternal health, both in the Black community and overall, is taken so seriously, with various related objectives from top agencies like the World Health Organization (WHO), the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Let’s look at the most common issues that pregnant women face, the many risk factors for preventable complications, some sobering statistics, and what is being done on the national and global levels to improve maternal mortality rates.

Common Pregnancy Health Concerns

There are a few discomforts women can expect during their pregnancy. Women can avoid acidic foods to aid heartburn and eat more fiber to help treat constipation, especially early on, to easily treat some discomforts at home. Women often turn to family or friends for advice to help treat such things, finding unique ways to ease soreness or dry skin. Even expected symptoms of pregnancy can affect maternal health, however, and easing them can increase mood and help expectant mothers look forward to the birth of their child.

Other Symptoms You Might Experience:

• Cramps

• Feeling faint

• Hot flashes

• Incontinent

• Dry skin

• Back pain

• Headache

• Pelvic pain

• Stretch marks

• Tiredness

• Morning sickness

Risk Factors for Pregnancy-Related Complications

The Office of the Surgeon General published a “Call to Action” acknowledging the higher-than-average maternal mortality rates in the United States. In it, they call attention to the disparities within the Black population, suggest what should be done to reduce mortality rates for all mothers, and lay out a long-term plan with strategies to affect this and future generations.

But when do symptoms become risk factors and dangerous for both mothers and the child? Therefore, it’s critical to work closely with an OB/GYN or other health services throughout your pregnancy, so risk they can identify risk factors, monitored, and treated as early as possible.

High Blood Pressure

More women are at risk of high blood pressure (hypertension) prior to pregnancy, mainly due to increased obesity rates. Many women are waiting until later in life to start a family, also contributing to the probability they will begin their pregnancy with high blood pressure, develop it during, or experience a spike during delivery that may all lead to complications. High blood pressure during pregnancy is called preeclampsia.

Diabetes

If a woman did not previously have signs of diabetes but develops it during her pregnancy, they will diagnose her with gestational diabetes. Diabetes significantly increases the chance for complications and it closely related to preeclampsia. Managing maternal health in this condition is vital, as it can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, birth defects, and more.

Obesity

With higher rates of obesity, it is becoming a more common risk factor for maternal health in the United States especially. An unhealthy weight can contribute to other conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and mental health that can contribute to other maternal health concerns, compounding the risk of pregnancy complications.

Illness and Infection

From Covid-19 to a common cold to more serious infections like chlamydia or HIV, illnesses and infections can affect maternal health and the health of the infant. A mother should work closely with a physician if they are diagnosed with an illness or infection prior to or while pregnant. Most times, there are ways to mitigate the risk to the baby before and after birth. However, many of these risks are preventable causes and can be reduced through education and other community resources, such as sexual and reproductive health.

Substance Use Disorders

A substance use disorder can describe everything from nicotine and alcohol to methamphetamine and cocaine. According to the Surgeon General’s report, 12% of the pregnant women polled reported using some type of nicotine product within the last month and 10% reported drinking alcohol. Another 5% reported drug use. Not only does substance use affect maternal health, but it increases health risk to the baby because of pregnancy complications.

Mental Health

Maternal health and mental health are closely linked. This can include pre-existing mood diseases, such as depression or anxiety, or postpartum depression which affects up to 20% of new mothers. In fact, over a ten-year period, they found that nearly 10% of all pregnancy-related deaths were because of a mental health condition. Only by addressing mental health stigma and offering more patient-centered care in the United States can we support maternal health as well.

Domestic Violence

In some states, especially in the south, domestic violence is the single most common cause of maternal deaths for the Black population. This violence often begins during pregnancy or soon after it. Intimate partner violence among Black Americans is one of several preventable causes of maternal and child deaths in the US, especially when addressed at a socioeconomic level.

More Maternal Health Statistics

The United Nations Population Fund offers insight into the global importance of maternal health and that women everywhere are susceptible to preventable causes of maternal mortality. Around the world, nearly 300,000 women died in 2017 alone, mostly due to:

• Severe bleeding

• Obstructed labor

• Sepsis

• Unsafe abortion

• Eclampsia

These deaths are significantly lower than those recorded in 2000, but are still unacceptable. Many of these deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa or Southern Asia, and global efforts are making an impact.

The Commonwealth Fund analyzed data from the WHO, National Center for Health Statistics, and other studies to get a better picture of who is at the highest risk. In the United States, mortality rates are getting worse year after year, starting in 2000, and worsening significantly since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. The current maternal mortality rates are three times that of the country with the next highest death rate, New Zealand. The hardest hit are African Americans, who account for more than half of all maternal deaths.

A National and Global Response

Maternal health is a concern not only in the United States, where it affects the Black population and multiracial people disproportionately but the world over. What is being done to improve health outcomes?

US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

Health and Human Services has formed a workgroup comprised of four US federal agencies working together to address maternal health as a national crisis and the disparity affecting the non-Hispanic Black population. The workgroup has focused not only on supporting women and infants directly but also by addressing other emerging health concerns that affect maternal death, such as drug use and sexually transmitted diseases.

American Public Health Association (APHA)

The American Public Health Association is focused on addressing preventable causes of maternal death. They do this by investing in sexual and reproductive health education, preventative health care for women, and more. Like other agencies, they have focused their efforts on the disproportionate affects of poor maternal health on Black Americans, partnering with the Center for Reproductive Rights for “Black Mamas Matter” and the World Federation of Public Health Associations for “Reducing Maternal Mortality as a Human Right.”

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

The focus of the United National Population Fund is sexual and reproductive health care, promoting basic health standards around the world, especially where maternal deaths are most common. Working in sub-Saharan Africa, Southern Asia, and other regions, the UNFPA supports programs that train providers in preventative care during pregnancy, emergency birth response, and critical care for newborns. These initiatives have improved health outcomes over the last two decades and more improvement is expected.

The World Health Organization (WHO)

The World Health Organization helps to support all members with their individual efforts to address maternal health, especially maternal deaths. They closely monitor the progress being made and how effective initiatives are at supporting those that are most vulnerable. This includes the United States, where the majority of those affected are Black people and deaths continue to increase.

Maternal Health: Disparity in Preventable Deaths

Yes, women experience common symptoms during pregnancy. Most will agree that these symptoms are well worth the discomfort once their child is born healthy. However, many women don’t have the same access to care or are at risk for miscarriage, preterm labor, cesarian birth, birth defects, other birth complications or even maternal death because of an increase in risk factors that could be preventable.

Maternal mortality rates have only worsened over the last two decades in the US and this trend will only change with more education about maternal health and better access to care for those disproportionately affected. Black Health Matters is helping to do just that by raising awareness, challenging the system, and bringing more resources to the Black population most vulnerable.

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The answer would vary, depending upon who you ask. On Tudum, Uzo Aduba describes her character as a woman who is “strong, she doesn’t mince words and she’s unapologetically herself.” Finding the right costume for the character was an integral part of the storytelling. “Cordelia wasn’t going to look like [she’s a] part of this world that we’re all familiar with, Aduba says. “And it felt emblematic that she doesn’t fit into any world. She is a woman that is entirely her own — singular — and she is OK moving through the world in that way.”

Cordelia Cupp is More Than a Columbo or Monk

After the body of the White House’s head usher (Giancarlo Esposito) is discovered during a State Dinner with Austraila. The Chief of DC Metropolitan Police Department, who has jurisdiction, calls in Cupp (who has a global reputation for solving murders). She’s more like Hercule Poirot. While the men in high places play tug of war over who can overrule Cupp’s investigation, she ignores them. She gets down to business, putting intricate puzzle pieces together and introducing us to all the players while providing a healthy dose of references to birds and a side of birdwatching in the middle of the investigation.

Fans Have Laid Out Their Clues

Online audiences are talking because they see evidence, at the very least, of an autistic-coded character in Cordelia Cupp.

Here’s the Official Definition

According to DSM-5, to meet the Autism Spectrum Criteria, individuals would have persistent deficits in social communications and social interaction across multiple contexts.

• Deficits in social-emotional reciprocity range, for example, from an abnormal social approach and failure of normal back-and-forth conversation to reduced sharing of interests, emotions, or affect and failure to initiate.
•  Symptoms cause clinically significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of current functioning.
• These disturbances are not better explained by intellectual development disorder (intellectual disability) or global developmental delay. Intellectual development disorder and autism spectrum disorder frequently co-occur.

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder may become fixated on certain topics and may also socially isolate themselves. In Cordelia Cupp’s case, her fixation with birds was a constant throughout the series. Then, it was combined with social isolation later in the series.

However, on the flip side, although she didn’t pick up on social cues, she did empathize with her friend, the Metropolitan Police Chief, and made a decision that helped him when he needed it most.

But here’s the thing: Cordelia Cupp knows she’s different. I will be very vague here for those who haven’t watched The Residence yet. Remember the conversation with her nephew in Episode 4, when they are birding, and he wants to give up?

“Do you ever think this is unhealthy?”

It is a word my mom uses when she talks about you.

“Single-minded.  Difficult, Obsessive, Un..” he says.

“Uncompromising,’ Cordelia chimes in.

Then, she tells him the story about his mom’s strawberry socks. At the end of it, Cordelia says. “This is not the only way to be, but this is the way that I am.’

In the same episode, she gifts her nephew a birding book and talks about what she uses hers for.

“I like to sketch things I see. I learn a lot from drawing. I put down what I saw, where I looked, what questions I have.”

But Aduba also said birding speaks to Cupp’s patience. “Birding takes an incredible amount of patience. You have to wait, wait, wait for the moment to come to you rather than chase after birds.”

So, in this case, birding becomes a metaphor for how she methodically solves cases.

The post Is Cordelia Cupp of Netflix’s “The Residence” on the Autism Spectrum? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

 

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A Rough 2024

Cole describes 2024 as a rocky year. She told People, “Our corporate overhead was about $10 million,” Pinky stated. “I was chasing something that I couldn’t catch for so many reasons.” Though she knew the fast-food chain was special and connected to a large audience — famous for consistently having hours-long queues — the corporate spend was too much for the entrepreneur to catch up with, calling it “a situation where something is just too far gone,” in which “the best thing that you could do is let it die so that you can rebirth it.”

Admitting that she wasn’t an operational person, Cole said she had people in place who ran the business side. But she learned that she could never take her hands off the wheel.

Putting Slutty Vegan in the Hands of an Assignee

Slutty Vegan needed to go through a restructuring and although Cole fought it for a long time, she decided that she had to do it in early February of this year. According to People. “I fought it for a long time, to be honest, and I didn’t want to do it. I didn’t want to face the public scrutiny,” she confessed. “I didn’t want to face the opinions of others because I know I built something that’s so doted by so many people. I could have easily gone to social media and did a rally cry for help, but I didn’t want to be a victim.”

She’s No Stranger to Failure

The 37-year-old entrepreneur wrote a book for entrepreneurs entitled “I Hope You Fail.” Cole  also lost her first restaurant to a grease fire in 2016, has been evicted, and had her car repossessed. She considers herself an expert at failing.

However, having a mattress thrown at her caused Cole to think about how she wanted to do business in the future. She hired a headhunter to find new leadership for the company, under the banner, “Ain’t Nobody Coming to See You, Otis LLC,” 1998 film The Temptations.

 

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The Future of Slutty Vegan is Global

Cole told People she wants to “hyper scale” Slutty Vegan 2.0. There are currently eight locations in the United States—five in Georgia and one each in Alabama, Maryland, and New York. “Global expansion is big for 2.0,” she revealed. “We’ve been talking about Dubai and Africa and just really scaling Slutty Vegan beyond the U.S.”

When she talked about her business journey she told the magazine, “There’s going to be a couple of left turns that you’re going to make, you’re going to make a couple of U-turns. There’s going to be some speed bumps in the road,” she said of her business journey. “Somebody’s going to throw a mattress at you — but that is not reason enough to give up.”

The post Slutty Vegan’s Pinky Cole Lost Control of Her Business & Almost Lost Her Life appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Bishop Jakes says he didn’t realize what had happened to him until he arrived at the hospital in an ambulance.

“I was fussing about this happening while I was onstage. Then a doctor leaned over in my ear and said, ‘You’ve had a massive heart attack,'” he recalled.

One of the reasons he didn’t know he was having a cardiac event was that Bishop Jakes wasn’t experiencing the symptoms he’s heard about, numbness or sharp pain. “I just sort of… drifted off to sleep. I didn’t know what it was…but I almost died. [The doctor] said five minutes later, I would have been dead on arrival,” Bishop Jakes explained.

Jakes continued. “The right side of my heart had stopped giving blood at all. As long as I was up preaching, I felt fine, but when I sat down, the adrenaline dropped, and it exposed the fact that I was preaching with half of my heart closed through a clot.” That required surgery.

Melvin and Bishop Jakes talked about being so close to death and that he was at peace the whole time. “And then I had my whole church, and when I say my whole church, I mean global, not just the congregation. Even people who didn’t go to my church, people everywhere were sending prayers. I am so thankful and want to use this opportunity to thank them,” he said.

“And while they were praying, the surgeons were operating while I was awake. They never put me to sleep; technology is amazing,” Bishop Jakes continued.

You would think that after recovering from a massive heart attack, Bishop Jakes would slow down. No, he is doing more. Look for a new podcast coming soon.

 

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When Wade got to his doctor’s appointment, he was very transparent. He shared his symptoms with his HCP, including some things he had been feeling. “Sometimes, when I would go to the bathroom, my urine would come out a little slow; it would take a little more time. Sometimes I would have some cramps, some pain a little at times,  in my stomach,” he explained. Wade wanted to understand what was going on with his body.

Wade hadn’t kept with regular medical exams since retiring from the NBA in 2019. He was fortunate that his father’s diagnosis propelled him into action.

There is no telling when he may have gone in for a check-up. It had been four years already. Imagine if he had waited longer; most Black men do.

When Wade got a call from his doctor that there was something concerning about his kidney, “Immediately, they tried to say, we don’t if it is cancerous, but there is something on there, and you are a young man we want to make sure that you can live this healthy lifestyle,” Wade said.

Wade talked, doing his due diligence. He got a second opinion, then a third. But he realized that he had to have surgery to confirm whether he did indeed have cancer.

The operation in December 2023 led to the removal of 40% of Wade’s kidney.

In her appearance last month on Jenna & Friends, Wade’s wife, Gabrielle Union, explained that he was “a little more hesitant” at the time to bring his family along on his “journey of healing” from the cancer.

“That level of vulnerability, to go through removal of a good chunk of his kidney and the healing that involved, he needed us to be OK with his vulnerability. But more than that, he needed to be OK with his vulnerability,” she said. “It was a challenge to give grace and receive it.”

Wade discussed having to shed his personas of being the “strong” one,” the hall of famer.” “I’m a very prideful man. I was most afraid of being that vulnerable in front of my wife,” he confessed.

Now cancer-free, Wade makes sure he and his family talk about their genetic health history so that their children aren’t left guessing about what diseases may impact them in the future. Knowledge is power.

 

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To learn more about kidney cancer treatment diagnosis and treatment options, go to kidneycancer.org.

The post Dwyane Wade Talks About His Kidney Cancer Journey appeared first on Black Health Matters.

His Musical Legacy

Tony! Toni! Toné! hit the scene in 1986, bringing a fresh mix of soul, jazz, and funk to the R&B world. As a guitarist, songwriter, vocalist, and producer, Wiggins helped redefine the genre. Alongside his brother Raphael Saadiq and his cousin Timothy Christian Riley, Wiggins crafted timeless hits. Their debut album, Who?, dropped in 1988, but it was their second album, The Revival (1990), that made them stars. Packed with hits like “Feels Good,” “Whatever You Want,” and “It Never Rains (In Southern California),” the album went platinum and cemented the group’s place in R&B history.

In 1995, D’Wayne Wiggins started Grass Roots Entertainment, running it from his West Oakland studio, the “House of Music.” The space wasn’t just a recording studio, it became a home for artists to grow and create. Wiggins worked closely with Destiny’s Child early on, signing them to his label and helping shape their first three albums, all of which went platinum. He also contributed to Alicia Keys’s The Diary of Alicia Keys in 2003, an album that won three Grammys and sold over 5 million copies in the U.S. These are just two examples of how Wiggins helped shape the sound of R&B.

Wiggins grew up in East Oakland, attending Castlemont High School, and his hometown was always a big part of his story. He made sure Oakland’s energy and soul were reflected in his work and gave back by mentoring local artists and supporting the music scene. Whether through his own songs or the careers he helped build, Wiggins’s impact on music runs deep and will be felt for years to come.

“D’Wayne’s life was incomparable, and his music and service impacted millions around the world, including in his hometown of Oakland, California. He was a guitarist, producer, composer, philanthropist, mentor, and founding member of Tony! Toni! Toné! He was deeply passionate about providing artist development and mentorship to emerging young musicians, helping to shape the early careers of many,” the Wiggins family shared in a statement.

D’Wayne Wiggins wasn’t just a talented musician, he was someone who truly cared about his craft, his community, and the people around him. His story reminds us that great music doesn’t just come from talent; it comes from the heart.

Shining a Light on Bladder Cancer

While celebrating Wiggins’s contributions to music, his passing also highlights the importance of bladder cancer awareness. This disease doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, but its impact is significant.

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 84,870 new cases of bladder cancer are anticipated in the U.S. this year, with men accounting for the majority. Black men, while less likely to be diagnosed compared to their white counterparts, face higher mortality rates; this reflects the systemic inequities in healthcare that our community faces. Awareness is the first step in fighting bladder cancer, and early detection can significantly increase survival rates. Look at a few common symptoms of bladder cancer, provided by Mayo Clinic:

* Blood in the urine (hematuria) may appear pink, red, or dark brown.
* Frequent or painful urination.
* A persistent urge to urinate, even when the bladder is not full.
* Back pain.

These symptoms can be subtle, but paying attention to them and seeking medical advice could make all the difference. If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, consider making an appointment with your doctor.

We send our heartfelt condolences to D’Wayne Wiggins’s family, friends, and everyone who loved him. His music touched so many lives, and his legacy will continue to inspire for generations.

The post R&B Legend D’Wayne Wiggins Has Died appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Having his operation at the University of Washington Medical Center meant he came home to do it. Robinson, 40, was a “Husky” star and a point guard for their team.

 

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As a reminder, Black men comprise 17% of all chronic kidney disease cases.

Robinson has had a long journey. In October 2022, he announced that he had been battling renal failure for four years. However, he discovered his kidneys were an issue as early as 2005, but he went on to have an 11-season career.

After his surgery, Robinson told CNN through his agent, Polo Kerber, “I’m thankful for my doctors, the University of Washington, my family, my donor, and his family. Kerber added that Robinson was already feeling and looking better post-surgery and was up and walking around.

According to ESPN, Robinson received his new kidney from a live donor during hours-long transplant surgery. After the former Three-Time Dunk Champ made his plight public, he learned the University of Washington was flooded with offers from people willing to donate their kidneys.

Last fall, Robinson went through a series of preparatory procedures, including a colonoscopy, as the doctors whittled down the number of potential donors. And he found one in a man named Shane Cleveland, who Robinson has called “family at first sight.”

 

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Shane says he has found another mother in Nate’s mom, Renee Busch.

If Robinson had it to do all over again, he would have sat out his rookie year and gotten a kidney then, but hindsight is always 20-20. But after waiting so long for a kidney, Robinson told ESPN he wasn’t planning to take it for granted.

“Later on in life, when I get a kidney, I’m going to be looking back, like, ‘Damn, I really went through all this,'” he said. “That kidney I get, I’m going to cherish it. I’m going to treat it like a baby. I’m going to do everything I’m supposed to do.”

The post Ex-NBA-Player Nate Robinson Has A Successful Kidney Transplant appeared first on Black Health Matters.

While Gotti’s cause of death has not been announced, the music mogul had suffered a series of strokes and had also battled some diabetes-related health complications.

According to the New York Times, Gotti was born Irving Lorenzo Domingo Junior in Queens, New York. He was the youngest of eight children, and his father was a taxi driver. When he was a teen, his siblings gave him a turntable and a mixer, which he played with and practiced on. At 15, he began DJing parties.

According to the New York Times, Gotti started his career as a talent scout. He is credited with helping discover rap stars like Jay-Z and DMX before securing a position in A&R at Def Jam.

Gotti executive produced DMX’s 1998 debut album, “It’s Dark and Hell is Hot,” which debuted at Number 1 on the Billboard 200 Chart. According to Billboard, Ja Rule became Murder Inc.’s flagship artist. Between 1999 and 2005, the rapper amassed 17 Hot 100 Hits, including three number 1s.

Gotti also discovered R&B singer Ashanti, who had three hits in 2002. Billboard lists them: Ja Rule’s “Always on Time,” featuring Ashanti, was a two-week Hot 100 No. 1; Fat Joe’s “What’s Luv?,” featuring Ashanti, peaked at No. 2; and her own “Foolish” spent 10 weeks atop the Hot 100.

Billboard also notes that Gotti is credited as a producer on 28 charting Hot 100 hits, from Ja Rule, Ashanti, DMX, Jay-Z, Mary J. Blige, Fat Joe, and Ye.

Murder Inc. and the Gotti brothers faced challenges when their offices were raided by the FBI, and they were put on trial for alleged money laundering for their association with Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff. But they were acquitted by a federal jury in 2005.

After the acquittal, Gotti renamed the label The Inc. and worked with artists including Vanessa Carlton, Christina Milian, Memphis Bleek, and Kanye West.

Later, he became interested in television and film projections, including BET Tales, a scripted anthology series of song stories that turned hip-hop lyrics into mini-movies.

The Hollywood Reporter talked to Lyor Cohen, former CEO at Def Jam, about Gotti’s passing and he said,

“Def Jam has lost one of its most creative soldiers who was hip-hop,” says Lyor Cohen, who held chief executive roles at the label from 1988 to 2004 and was a presence from its nascent days (he currently serves as global head of music at YouTube). “When we were on bended knee, he brought the heat and saved our asses. He comes from a very tight, beautiful family from Queens, and it’s an honor and a privilege to have known him. Irv, you will be missed.”

Gotti is survived by his three children, Angie, Sonny, and Jonathan Wilson; his mother, Nee Nee Lorenzo; sisters, Tina and Angie; and his brother, Chris Lorenzo, with whom he co-founded Murder Inc.

 

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The 2024 four-part Lifetime documentary “Where Is Wendy Williams?” revealed Williams had been diagnosed with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia. According to the journal Nature Reviews Neurology, “Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) is a disorder of declining language that is a frequent presentation of neurodegenerative diseases such as frontotemporal lobar degeneration.” The Alzheimer’s Association reports, “The nerve cell damage caused by frontotemporal dementia leads to loss of function.”

Understanding guardianship is essential, no matter one’s social or financial status.

Guardianships can occur in anyone’s life. You might be placed under guardianship due to illness or injury. You could also be called to serve as a guardian.

Williams described her surroundings. “I’m in this place where the people are in their 90s and their 80s and their 70s,” Williams continued. She described individuals facing challenges sharing their space. “There’s something wrong with these people here on this floor,” she added. Williams revealed she spent her past three birthdays alone and preferred that to being in the presence of facility residents. “I keep the door closed. I watch TV,” she said.

“I watch the window, you know? And I sit here as my life goes by.” The Breakfast Club host Charlamagne Tha God, who has long-standing personal and professional histories with Williams, alleged she is “trapped.”

“Wendy can make her own decisions. She is not cognitively impaired. She is not incapacitated. She is being taken advantage of,” he told the audience. Williams declared,

“This system is broken.” Williams’ niece, Alex Finnie, who participated in the interview, agreed. “She’s there in New York, in this place, essentially like what some call a luxury prison.”

What Is A Guardianship?

According to the International Journal of Law, Policy, and the Family, “The purpose of legal guardianship is to protect the interests and rights of a person with decreased mental capacity and to ensure they receive the necessary support.” Guardianship laws vary by state.

In New York, where Williams is, “A judge can appoint an Article 81 guardian to help a person manage their personal needs or property or both,” according to the New York Courts.

Guardianships are typically enacted following evidentiary hearings. The purpose of these hearings is “to have the input and background from medical professionals to assist the judge and determine whether or not somebody is incapacitated or incapable,” according to attorney Thalia Dubose.

Dubose commented on the importance of introducing full reports at hearings. “It is paramount, it is imperative, to have a comprehensive report and background of anybody, that the family or court is going to possibly decide on whether or not they are incapacitated or incapable of handling their own medical decisions,” Dubose told Black Health Matters.

What Kind Of Information Is Considered In Guardianship Updates?

Dr. La’Tesha Sampson, PhD, who has been subpoenaed in several guardianship cases, stressed the need for adequate time to be given to medical professionals making reports in guardianship cases. “Many times, the legal profession does not understand the length of time it may take to have a doctor write a comprehensive report,” she said. “They just subpoena things like the notes. Well, I can tell you, as a medical professional, oftentimes in notes, a lot of jargon is used.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Journal of Patient Education and Counseling report that non-professionals can misunderstand and misinterpret medical jargon.

What Challenges Do Guardianships Present?

An article in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society in 2022 stated, “Guardianship may pose an ethical dilemma for physicians, who must balance protecting vulnerable patients from potential safety concerns with respecting their autonomy.”

In 2016, the Journal of Aging, Longevity, Law & Policy reported that “over the years, the concept of surrogate decision-making has changed to move away from a “best interests” model toward “substituted judgment” standards in which the guardian or other surrogate uses the person’s values and preferences in making choices.”

Williams expressed that her wishes for things, such as the type of hairbrush she wanted to use, were not being honored during the interview.

Why Do You Need To Understand Guardianships?

“To educate yourself, it is to empower yourself,” said Dubose. “You need to have a full understanding of signs to look for when you believe that a parent or a loved one is displaying symptoms of incapacity.”

You must understand how these evaluations are made so you can speak for your loved one if required because the person determining their fate might not understand them.

Finnie expressed that those unfamiliar with her could misinterpret her aunt’s zany personality.

The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that “it has been observed that even in situations where a standardized medical tool is available, medical doctors assess mental capacity inconsistently.”

“Medical health is a practice,” said Dr. Sampson, PhD. “It is based on the professional’s clinical assessment of the person at that time. So, I may assess a person at 8 AM, and someone else may assess a person at 8 PM and get two totally different outcomes. This is why it’s so important that people be educated about these issues.”

Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, MD, pointed out that the degree to which someone’s cognition can be diminished varies based on their circumstances. “I think it’s very important that it’s individualized because not everybody fits a textbook,” she told Black Health Matters.

She described how treating someone under guardianship requires nuance. “It’s a delicate dance because you want to make sure that that person’s autonomy, who they are, that central core to who they are, is preserved, honored, and recognized,” said Dr. Curry-Winchell, MD.

How Can Being In A Guardianship Affect One’s Mental Health?

Dr. Curry-Winchell, MD, explained why being placed under a guardian can make someone feel imprisoned. “Your rights are taken away, and when that happens, prison is a perfect word to describe the loss of your ability, or your autonomy to do what you would like to do,” she told Black Health Matters.

Dr. Sampson, PhD concurred. “You are essentially stripped of your constitutional rights,” she said in an interview. “People in society don’t understand what that means. You are unable to make any and all decisions regarding every aspect of your life.”

Dr. Sampson, PhD explained what it could feel like to be under a guardian you have no relationship with. “Imagine if every single decision in your life was made by someone else, who is not a family member, who’s not intimately familiar with you, your medical condition necessarily, or anything about your culture, your customs, your beliefs, your values,” she said.

How Are Guardians Chosen?

Guardians are court-appointed. Sometimes, they are loved ones. However, in cases where the court suspects a conflict of interest could harm the person under guardianship, a stranger can be assigned.

Guardianships Can Be Reevaluated

Not all guardianships are permanent. Cognitive abilities can fluctuate in some cases.

“I never want to put someone in a category and say you are this. And that’s how it’s going to be forever,” said Dr. Curry-Winchell, MD. “I think we need to utilize the technology, the medicine, [and] the ability to just make sure that person is really at that level still.”

Finnie indicated Williams’ cognitive abilities had not been tested again. “She hasn’t had, from what I understand, medical evaluation to see if her rights can be restored,” said Finnie during the interview.

How Can Clinicians Help Those In Guardianships?

If a clinician suspects that a guardian is taking advantage of their charge, they are required to speak up. They do not need hard evidence to raise a claim. Dr. Curry-Winchell, MD, shared that clinicians should feel empowered to advocate for their patients. “It’s okay to be wrong. We’re human. But you wouldn’t want to miss out on maybe helping someone, and not every clinician is an expert in everything and when it comes to abuse,” she said.

The post Wendy Williams Speaks Out About Her Guardianship Experience appeared first on Black Health Matters.

How Four Online Brands Measure Up

Bra shopping, in general, can be overwhelming; shopping for bras online can pose an even more significant challenge. Without the ability to try styles on, we are forced to rely heavily on brand marketing and customer reviews. We still wanted to explore a few of these online bra brands to see how they measure up based on key factors like support, suitability for workouts, style, and overall comfort.

Shapedly focuses on shaping and smoothing, the most popular way to highlight seamless styles. Customers appreciate the comfort level and no-show appearance under clothing, but high-impact support and cuteness are not their primary focus.

Yitty: Founded by Lizzo, the brand focuses on comfort, size inclusivity, and body positivity. Like Shapedly, Yitty emphasizes smoothing and shaping but does not offer the high-level support needed for intense workouts or high-impact activities. Thanks to its unique designs in various fun colors, Yitty’s cuteness level ranks pretty high.

FeelinGirl: One of the newest viral sensations, this brand is often associated with offering various styles and colors at incredibly affordable prices. Overall, cuteness ranks high with FeelinGirl, but some of their styles are less likely to provide long-term support. Also, comfort levels may vary depending on body type and lifestyle.

Delimira: Fans of Delimira appreciate their style offerings in a range of sizes (including larger cup sizes) at reasonable prices. As a bonus, Delimira offers different levels of comfort and support, some suitable for light workouts. The brand offers a selection of trendy bra options, but overall, its focus is affordability and functionality over fashion.

The Bottom Line

Style Factor

Hands down: Yitty and FeelinGirl

Workout Friendly

None of these is ideal for high-intensity workouts, but some Delimira and Shapedly styles could be options for lighter activities.

Comfort

Shapedly for the win! Overall Support: Shapedly & Delimira (depending on style) generally reviews higher

Without knowing personal preferences and individual body types, these ratings provide a general overview and assessment based on brand focus and online reviews. Determining what works best for you and your lifestyle is the best way to determine what bra brands and styles will offer your desired support.

One Size Doesn’t Support All

It all starts with the right fit – but it can be easy to get lost in a sea of confusion when shopping for a well-fitting bra. Many women find the process of bra sizing to be confusing, often misinterpreting the relationship between band and cup size. Introduce the growing trend of S, M, and L sizing, which, albeit convenient, usually features bra styles that fail to provide proper support, especially for diverse body types. The generic sizing charts pose challenges for women with fuller chests, who often struggle to find comfortable and supportive bras.

Why The Right Size Matters

Wearing the wrong bra size is not only uncomfortable, but it can also result in a range of health issues. Studies have shown an ill-fitting bra that doesn’t offer adequate support can lead to breast skin damage—often visible to us as stretch marks.

Bras that don’t offer proper support have also been associated with breast pain, neck, shoulder, and back pain, headaches, and bad posture, to name a few.

Board-certified plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr. James D. Namnoum shared studies showing that “80% of women wear the incorrect bra size, with 70% of women wearing bras that are too small and 10% wearing bras that are too big.”

These alarming statistics may not be surprising, as finding the right bra size can be challenging. However, the long-term consequences override the short-term process of identifying the best fit, brand, and style that works for your lifestyle.

Of the long-term consequences of wearing an ill-fitting bra, at the top of Dr. Namnoum’s list is Breast, Shoulder, & Back Pain. “One of the first things you may notice from wearing the wrong size bra is breast pain. Complaints are more typical of people with larger breast cup sizes, who exercise infrequently, or who are premenopausal.” Dr. Namnoum adds that “if your bra is too small, it can dig into your breasts. If it is too big, your breasts may have too much room and can become prone to bouncing around, contributing to tenderness [and potential sagging].”

Relating to shoulder, neck, and back pain, the Atlanta-based surgeon notes that while these types of pain are not solely linked to ill-fitting bras, improper breast support can only exacerbate these conditions. Bras designed with larger straps are recommended to disperse weight and offer full support, but, in some cases, straps themselves can cause unnecessary pain. (Think of deep grooves in your shoulders from strap pressure). If cases like these ensure or lead to more serious nerve pain, it is essential to discuss them with your healthcare professional.

Another painful result of wearing the wrong bra is ill-fitting bras that are too tight, which can lead to rib cage pain. These symptoms are typically seen in underwire bras, but wire-free styles can pose the same issues if you’re not wearing the proper band size.

Retailers and Designers alike have accepted that the bra-fitting process can be challenging for women and are doing their part to support consumers in their efforts to avoid these long-term health consequences.

Dillards partnered with the National Breast Cancer Foundation to produce The Bra Fit Guide, which aims to raise awareness about proper breast health and help women look and feel their best. The comprehensive guide explains how to measure your cup and band size correctly and features a range of styles to help you choose the right size and bra for your lifestyle and clothing preferences.

The best way to ensure you are wearing the right size bra is to have it fitted by a professional bra specialist. But if you’re in a time crunch, the Bra Fit Guide explains how to self-measure when schedules don’t allow an in-person fitting.

Finding the Right Bra: Expert Advice

Finding the right bra and fit for your lifestyle can be overwhelming and confusing, but it doesn’t have to be.

Bra Specialists Helene Delince and Stephanie Vincent are Sisters and Co-Owners of The Fitting Curve, a Bra Fitting and lingerie Boutique in Long Island, New York.

Stephanie stresses the importance of a professional bra fitting because “every woman’s body is different.” She adds, “Different women can wear the same bra size but have different breast shapes, density, comfort levels, lifestyles, etc., which is why a bra fitting with an expert is key.”

Helene also shares how a Professional Bra Specialist can educate the consumer on different bra manufacturers and how sizing, fabric, cups, and bands vary between different brands. “It is important to try everything on; with different brands, you may fall under different sizes, and you need to try different sizes to identify the best fit. You can’t do that when shopping online.” Furthermore, different styles in the same size and brand can also fit differently, reiterating the importance of trying styles in real time.

Beyond the measurements. Lifestyle is key. A professional bra fitting can offer a personalized and holistic approach to finding the right size bra. “A woman can come in for a fitting and has been wearing the wrong size for years, mainly due to mass market chain availability – but once she shares details about her lifestyle, it easy to recommend a more supportive style or sports bra type over a t-shirt bra if she has more of an active lifestyle,” Stephanie added. Lastly, Helene recommends visiting a Professional Bra Specialist for a fitting annually, on average, to update your bra collection or more frequently if lifestyle habits have changed or weight has fluctuated.

Even for those who are more comfortable and prefer generic sizing (SML), it is still ideal to get fitted by a bra fitter to identify the proper band size. Overall, SML sizing can be tricky. After all, it is challenging to find bras that offer the perfect cup and band fit.

Taking full control of your breast health begins with prioritizing a proper bra fit and construction. Always get a professional bra fitting with a specialist who will help you make informed decisions about your overall bra lifestyle experience.

‘IG bras’ easily catch our attention, but their focus on viral fashion trends can reveal how much they compromise functionality. They may leave women with larger busts feeling unsupported and, in some instances, experiencing discomfort or even pain. This lack of support can have long-term consequences, reiterating the importance of proper bra construction and sizing over social media sensations.

The post Do Viral Bras Offer Us The Support We Need? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

“I did get diagnosed with it,” he said. “I’ve taken all the power away from the term narcissism because I’ve researched it totally. You call me whatever you want,” Cannon continued.

He shared more details about how he was adjusting to the medical label with People while volunteering at the Los Angeles Mission. “I feel like there are so many labels out there, but it’s like being able to embrace it and say, ‘Look, I’m healing. I need help. Show me.’ I embrace mental health and therapy in such a strong way,” said Cannon.

Discussions surrounding narcissistic personality disorder have become more common, but there are many misconceptions about it. Below is what you need to know about the disorder. What is narcissistic personality disorder?

According to a 2017 article published in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine, Narcissistic personality disorder is defined as “is characterized by a persistent pattern of grandiosity, fantasies of unlimited power or importance, and the need for admiration or special treatment. Individuals with NPD may experience significant psychological distress related to interpersonal conflict and functional impairment.”

Cannon said he did not meet all of the nine specific symptoms included in the criteria to be diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder. These symptoms include intense rage and a lack of empathy. They are pervasive.

“I have no rage,” said Cannon. “I’m very empathetic.”

How common is narcissistic personality disorder?

Your Instagram explore page might be saturated with endless narcissistic abuse tales, but clinical diagnoses for the disorder are handed out sparingly. According to the Journal of Current Psychiatry Reports, between “0.5% and 5% of adults in the U.S. have narcissistic personality disorder.” Camille Lester-Riley, LMHC, LCPC, confirmed this. “It’s not as common as we think,” she told Black Health Matters during an interview. “Everything can’t be narcissism,” she added.

Asha Tarry, CLC, offered a potential explanation for the rare rate of diagnosis for narcissistic personality disorder. “That’s mostly because people with that clinical diagnosis are not often seen in therapy,” Tarry told Black Health Matters. “So they don’t find a reason for themselves to need or seek support in that way.”

Is narcissistic personality disorder always apparent?

It is not always easy to instantly spot someone with this disorder. “Someone may see a person with this type of disorder at work and see them a few hours of the day and think of them as charming and sincere and likable and approachable,” said Tarry. “They’re not getting the full breadth of this individual.”

How can you deal with a narcissist?

“You want to be mindful of what you say about them in public because they are very sensitive to embarrassment and criticism,” advised Tarry. “And although they may not snap on you where people are around to see it, they will create a smear campaign against you. If you go against them, they will do things to harm you psychologically.”

It is essential to be thoughtful in your interactions with someone you suspect is a narcissist. Consider the consequences of any action you take against them.

Narcissists might cut you off from a support system. “They will alienate you from other people, so you must take it seriously,” Tarry added.

Can narcissistic personality disorder be treated?

There are limited treatment options for narcissistic personality disorder. According to the University of Chicago, “Psychiatrists use psychotherapy, but the often-stigmatized personality disorder is a challenging condition to treat in part because so little is known about its biology. The Journal of Behavioral Medicine reported that “A prominent challenge in the conceptualization of NPD cases revolves around the heterogeneity in the presentation of the disorder and significant symptomatologic overlap with other Cluster B personality disorders.”

Progress is being made, however. The Journal of Personality Disorders published a study investigating potential biological causes of the disorder, which could advance treatment options.

Who can diagnose a narcissist?

No matter how many hours you spend on the clock app, you are not a clinician. The only person who can diagnose a narcissist is someone with the letters behind their name that empowers them to do so. Armchair diagnoses are not only inaccurate, they are dangerous. There are strong stigmas associated with NPD. Lester-Riley has concerns about the casual labeling of people by those not qualified to hand out diagnoses.

“I think specifically personality disorders, feel extremely stigmatizing because it shows that there’s like a lack of trust that people might have with you or with who you are portraying to be,” said Lester-Riley.

Why should you avoid tossing around the term narcissist?

It’s understandable to want to declare every annoying ex, shady former friend, and micromanaging boss a narcissist, but that is not your place.

Avoid labeling people with terms you don’t understand, and focus on what is best for your mental health. Just because you disagree with someone or you feel like they are being a jerk does not mean that they are a textbook narcissist.

“People are using things that they don’t necessarily understand because maybe they feel someone has mistreated them, and so they’re taking the term out of its own proper and appropriate place,” said Tarry.

“There’s such an overuse of the term,” Lester-Riley said. “I think ‘therapy speak’ is so frustrating.” “It’s just harmful, and I think it downplays the severity of NPD across the board,” she added.

“I would never ask anyone that’s not a trained professional to diagnose anyone or even use that language,” said Lester-Riley.

“That word we’re using colloquially shouldn’t be used by lay people. It’s a clinical term used in social science and medicine,” added Tarry. “We’re seeing it over-indexed in just everyday jargon.”

BHM Recommends: Your Mental Health: Setting Boundaries Unapologetically

The post Nick Cannon Has Narcissistic Personality Disorder appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Cologuard allows anyone to collect a stool sample, ship it out, and have it screened. The majority of the process occurs in the privacy and comfort of their homes.

The twenty-somethings standing on nightclub couches when the original song was released in 2002 are now forty-somethings at the prime age to get screened. “3-6-9, damn, it’s time/If you’re 45 screen with it, get in line,” are just some of the hysterical revised lyrics.

His track aims to use humor and nostalgia to encourage people to get screened before symptoms appear, something tough for those reluctant to be seen by medical professionals due to a history of systemic exclusion.

“Black and Brown people, we do not like to go to the doctor until something’s wrong,” Lil Jon told Black Health Matters in an interview. “I’m so happy I’m doing this campaign because, you know, we could catch some things.”

A 2021 article in the AMA Journal of Ethics said that “Transgenerational trauma is a potential barrier to achieving a healthy and holistic patient-physician relationship, particularly for Black Americans.”

He is not bashful about the theme of bathroom humor. “I think that’s the only way to do it,” he said. He knows people need entertainment to focus on something this serious because he requires the same. “I saw the Cologuard commercials, but I never really paid attention to what it was about,” he admitted.

“It kind of grabs you right away,” he said about the fun song. “We all get the joke, it’s a funny commercial. Y’all can go to getlow2.com to see the commercial and also to order your kits. But it just makes it easier to palette this subject because it’s funny because the song is called ‘Get Low #2,’ and you have to take a #2 to do the colon cancer screen with the Cologuard kit. So I thought it was pretty hilarious.”

Colon cancer is a serious threat to the health of the Black community. According to a 2018 article in The American Journal of Pathology, “African Americans have the highest incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) of any ethnic group in the United States.” The American Journal of Preventive Medicine reports that “Blacks have a higher mortality from this malignancy, particularly men, yet screening rates in this population are often found to be lower.”

Colon cancer has snatched the lives of hip-hop greats. Beloved hip-hop podcaster Combat Jack lost his battle with it in December of 2017. He used some of his last months to spread awareness by encouraging others to get screened. Recently, DJ Clark Kent succumbed to it.

This is not Lil Jon’s first foray into promoting health care in the Black community. “I’m all about health,” he said. “I’ve always kind of been about my health, but I took it to another level in the last two years.”

He released an album of Manifest Abundance: Affirmations for Personal Growth in April. He wants to normalize seeking mental health treatment for his fellow Black men. “We kind of suffer in silence, you know? We don’t talk about our problems. Therapy has been made to be taboo for just Black folks, in general,” he said.

He began committing to preventative health measures in his personal life after seeing someone in his circle be forced to have a triple bypass surgery. “It just shocked me enough to say. I need to get my health in check,” he said.

Since then, he has worked with trainers on his diet and exercise regime. He is so dedicated that he has memorized the healthiest menu options near his Las Vegas residency. Hopping off stage and shoving chicken rings and cheese fries in his mouth after every set isn’t an option.

“It’s okay to say, eat a fast food burger now and then, but you can’t eat it daily. We need to incorporate more fruits and vegetables in our diets,” he said.

“It helps me to be on point with my eating because eating is, you know, one of the main parts of being healthy,” he added.

“Much of this boils down to what you put in your body.”

Nutrition is important, but laughter is one of the best medicines. In the silly but catchy video for “Get Low #2,” he reminds viewers, “The Cologuard test can catch pre-cancer before it becomes cancer/ OH-KAY!”

He is thrilled with its reception. “People are having fun with it, and this social media response has been overwhelmingly great and amazing, and people love it,” he continued.

“A lot of people said they were going to order their kits and get screened. So, it’s already doing what it’s supposed to do.”

Watch the full video below.

The post Lil Jon Wants Us To “Get Low” To Check For Colon Cancer appeared first on Black Health Matters.

“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” the family said in a statement. “And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.”

According to the New York Times, Quincy Delight Jones, Jr., was born on the South Side of Chicago on March 14th, 1933, to Quincy Sr. (a carpenter who worked for local gangsters) and Sarah (Wells) Jones. The paper also says he and his brother Lloyd became separated from his mother when she developed schizophrenia and were sent to live with their maternal grandmother in Lexington, KY before their father remarried a woman named Elvera, who had three children of her own. The family eventually settled in Seattle, WA, and expanded even further.

According to the Washington Post, Jones’s father was mostly absent, and his stepmother showed a preference for her children. She beat him often, and he and his brother had to fend for themselves. With friends, Mr. Jones broke into a local recreation center to steal food and soda.

“Eventually I broke into all the supervisors’ rooms, and there was one where I saw a little piano in the room, and I closed the door,” he later told rapper and record producer Dr. Dre on his Beats 1 radio show, “The Pharmacy.” “Something said to me, ‘Idiot, go back in that room!’ I went back in the room and touched the piano … and every drop of blood in my body said, ‘This is what you’re going to do for the rest of your life.’… And it saved my life.”

He joined the chorus and band at his middle school and convinced trumpeter Clark Terry to give him lessons for a month when he was in town doing a gig with Count Basie’s Band—he also befriended a young Ray Charles when they both played with a local bandleader, Bumps Blackwell. This was all before he was out of high school.

After attending Schillinger House (now Berklee School of Music) in Boston, he went on tour with Lionel Hampton in 1951. In 1956, he became the musical director of Dizzy Gillespie’s band. He also recorded his first album the same year. Then, he moved to Paris to work for Barclay Records as its staff arranger and conductor. The New York Times says he stayed there off and on for five years. In the ’60s, he pivoted to pop and became the first Black executive at a white-own record label (Mercury).

Later, Jones set his sights on scoring film and television, including memorable films like “In the Heat of the Night,” “For the Love of Ivy,” and “In Cold Blood.” He also composed television theme songs, including “Sanford & Son,” before a brain aneurysm in 1974 threatened his health. He wasn’t expected to live, but he pulled through two operations. The following year, he created Qwest Productions.

Jones was the musical supervisor for the film adaptation of “The Wiz.” There, he met Michael Jackson, which led to their epic three-album collaboration, “Off the Wall,” “Thriller,” and “Bad,” which sold more than 46 million units (worldwide sales are said to be double that ).

“In 1985, Jones produced “We Are The World,” a charity single featuring 40 stars, including Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, Bob Dylan, Cyndi Lauper, and Ray Charles, to alleviate famine in Africa. He also co-produced the film “The Color Purple” (1985), directed by Steven Spielberg, and handpicked Winfrey, then a rising Chicago-based talk show host, for her breakout dramatic role.

 He made his mark in television with a co-venture with Time Warner, producing series that included “The Fresh Prince of Be-Air,” “In the House,” and “MadTV,” and later as the cofounder of the music magazine Vibe in 1993.

According to Billboard, Jones became the first African-American to be named musical director and conductor for the Oscars; he later served as executive producer for the Academy Awards in 1996. His acceptance of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 1995 marked another first for an African-American. With seven Oscar nods, he tied with sound designer Willie D. Burton as the African-American with the most nominations. According to the Associated Press, Jones was to receive an Honorary Academy Award later this month.

Last year, Jones also celebrated his 90th birthday with a star-studded two-night tribute at the Hollywood Bowl,). The celebration, led by his goddaughter Patti Austin and featuring performances from Stevie Wonder and rising jazz star Samara Joy, captured Jones’ seven-decade career and legacy as an artist, producer, arranger, and conductor. From soulful renditions of Jones’ classics to tributes from his longtime collaborators, the event underscored his profound impact on generations of musicians.

Our condolences go out to the Jones family: Daughters Rashida Jones, Jolie Jones Levine, Rachel Jones, Martina Jones, Kidada Jones, and Kenya Kinski-Jones; son Quincy Jones III; brother Richard Jones; and sisters Theresa Frank and Margie Jay.

The post Quincy Jones, Musical Icon Has Died at 91 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

On His Health

While we admire Hudson’s sculpted physique, he does not spend every day in the gym. He has always been mindful of what he eats. “There never been a period when my weight has been out of control; I’ve always been conscious enough to rein it in before it got too far out of control,” he says.” Also, being an actor always made me aware of the image I wanted to maintain.”

But Black men, for example, are taught to be strong and brave. “We don’t need certain things; we can brave them on our own, which is very foolish,” Hudson says. “Things are going on with our bodies that we’re unaware of.

For example, I had prostate cancer diagnosed back in 1998. There are no signs. You feel pretty good until it happens. And if you don’t take care of it, you can die from it. For me, you have to be vigilant.”

Hudson pointed out that yearly checkups are essential. “It’s nice to have people in our lives to remind us to take care of ourselves,” he says. “Some people are afraid they will get news they don’t want to know; I want to know something is happening.”

 The Rated RSV Campaign

Most of us associate Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) with babies and young children, but seniors are also a vulnerable population. “When Pfizer came to me and asked me to be part of this campaign and get the word out on RSV, I was very excited. Because one of the things I’ve become aware of is friends my age have not taken care of themselves,” Hudson notes.

“And I want to let people know that this is something most of us hadn’t heard of, that it’s out there, and we have to do what’s necessary to take care of ourselves.”

Senior citizens, 75 and older, are being impacted by it, but those 60 and older with chronic conditions like asthma, heart disease, diabetes, and COPD should also consider being vaccinated.

“The CDC says  from 60,000 to 160,000 people might end up in the hospital because of this,” he says. “That was alarming and I wanted to get the word out along with getting a yearly checkup and taking care of yourself.”

Sixty Years of Work

Ernie Hudson has been acting for six decades. The first film he was in, “Leadbelly,” was directed by the legendary Gordon Parks. His list of credits includes, of course, “Ghostbusters” but also cultural groundbreaking series like “Oz” and current BET+ hit Carl Webber’s “The Family Business,” which has been running for five seasons.

“When I am onstage with another actor, bring your best. I’m going to bring my best,” Hudson says. “We’re going to have some fun. And if we have fun, the audience is going to have fun. But I’m not worried about them. Let’s dance.”

What Brings Him Joy

At 78, Ernie Hudson is letting go of life’s urgencies surrounding him. “Joy is knowing it is a beautiful day. I can sit in the sun, soak it in, and smile, and somebody will smile back at me,” he says. I am still on the plane of existence and can appreciate and give thanks for things around me. I can have a meal spread before me and take a bite. And that’s enough for me—to know that I am.”

For information on RSV and to schedule a vaccination, go to VaxAssist.com.

The post Ernie Hudson On Work, Health, & Preventing RSV appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Personalization is the Way to Healthy Hair

Prose offers personalized hair care solutions backed by science and innovation. They use advanced technology to create custom-made formulas and provide valuable resources like expert advice, hair care tips, and community stories in their Blog.

Helen Nwosu, VP of Social Impact at Prose, shares, “With every purchase, we provide educational materials on the products and ingredients so the consumer knows what our team selected for their formula and why.”

How to Use Prose:

1. Online Consultation: Visit the Prose website and complete an online consultation. This questionnaire will assess your hair type, texture, goals, and concerns.

2. Personalized Recommendations: Based on your consultation, Prose will recommend a customized set of hair care products, including shampoo, conditioner, and hair oil.

3. Product Customization: You can choose from a variety of options to further personalize your products, such as fragrance preferences or additional ingredients.

4. Order and Receive: Place your order and receive personalized products shipped directly to your home.

What You Get:

• Custom-Made Formulas: Prose creates unique formulas based on your hair needs, ensuring optimal results.

• Scientifically Validated Products: Benefit from products backed by rigorous clinical research.

• High-Quality Ingredients: Enjoy premium ingredients and cutting-edge formulations.

• Personalized Experience: Receive products with your name on the label, showcasing Prose’s commitment to understanding individuality.

• Ongoing Innovation: Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in hair care through Prose’s continuous product development.

Popular Product:

The brand recently reimagined one of its products, the Prose Custom Hair Oil, a multitasking oil used to tame flyaways, smooth frizz, and seal in moisture. Use it as a pre-wash treatment, styling primer, or finishing touch. Add Prose’s Signature fragrance—vanilla, caramel, and musk notes ($48).

Culture Drives Community

Developed for the tightest textures, OurX offers personalized hair care solutions, expert guidance, and a supportive community. Users can connect with like-minded individuals, get one-on-one coaching, and quickly find textured hair professionals.

OurX goes beyond personalized products. OurX Founder Cecil Kurzman says, “The idea is to create an end-to-end solution designed to help people reach their hair goals, deliver personalization, expert guidance, and data-informed product development for the tightest textures.Their culturally relevant content and accessible team of experts help users navigate textured hair care and make informed decisions.OurX’s Hair Reset Program, a 75-day journey to healthier hair and scalp, requires an investment of $80 every two weeks. Many users report significant improvements after completing the program.

How to Use OurX:

1. Take the Hair Assessment: Start by completing the in-depth online hair assessment to receive personalized recommendations.

2. Explore Products: Discover a range of customized hair care products tailored to your needs.

3. Connect with the Community: Join OurX’s online community to connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and seek advice.

4. Consult with an Expert: Schedule a one-on-one consultation with a hair care expert for personalized guidance and recommendations.

5. Access Educational Resources: Explore the Education Tab on OurX’s website and social media for valuable hair care tips, trends, and expert advice.

What You Get:

• Personalized Hair Care: Receive products tailored to your unique hair type and goals.

• Expert Guidance: Receive personalized advice from their team of experts.

• Community Support: Connect with a supportive community of individuals with textured hair.

• Educational Resources: Stay informed about hair care trends and techniques.

Popular Product:

Pre-Cleanse Micro Oil, $38: This popular product detoxifies the scalp, removes buildup, and nourishes hair with omega acids and antioxidants.

How long will it take? Once your products have been shipped, they will arrive in five to seven business days (depending on the carrier).

As a haircare expert and self-proclaimed product snob, I’m impressed by Prose and OurX’s innovative approach to addressing industry gaps with science and wellness. Prose and OurX challenge the one-size-fits-all approach by offering personalized solutions and empowering consumers with data-driven information and support.

The post How Tech Platforms Personalize Black Haircare Solutions appeared first on Black Health Matters.

In an interview with VladTV, he said, “I played all kinds of music back then. Funny enough, it wasn’t about a certain style.”

He was already doing gigs when rapper Dana Dane hired him to be his DJ at his gig at Washington Irving High School.

Clark Kent was a quick study, learning to produce and create remixes, which allowed him to work with rappers and R&B acts. In 1995, he produced the Notorious B. I.G. Group,  Junior M.A.F.I.A. hit song, Player’s Anthem, introducing us to Lil’ Kim. The following year, he produced a trio of tracks for Jay-Z’s Reasonable Doubt album, including ‘Brooklyn’s Finest,” which also included Biggie. His collaboration with Mariah Carey in 2001 for her Glitter album, “Loverboy,” reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

An avid sneakerhead, the collector had amassed more than 3,000 pairs in his collection. Nike offered the following statement. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and true cultural icon, DJ Clark Kent. At Nike, we were honored to collaborate with Clark on projects that celebrated not only his deep love for sneakers but also his unwavering dedication to pushing creative boundaries and elevating culture,” Nike said in a statement issued to Billboard by a company spokesperson.

Clark Kent valiantly battled colon cancer for three years before succumbing to the disease. Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in our community among both men and women. We are also being diagnosed at younger ages. More than one in three Black people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Check here for more information on prevention and screening.

Our sincere condolences go out to his wife, Kesha, daughter, Kabriah, and son, Antonio. And we look forward to the documentary “God’s Favorite DJ: The Story of DJ Clark Kent,” directed by Angie Martinez.

 

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A post shared by DJ Clark Kent (@djclarkkent)

The post DJ Clark Kent Has Died After a Battle With Colon Cancer appeared first on Black Health Matters.

BHM: Many of our readers are familiar with your stardom from Real Housewives of Miami, but can you briefly share your career journey and what led you to the hit TV network and franchise show?

GA: My journey to Real Housewives of Miami has been colorful! I started as a wedding and event planner, driven by a passion for creating unforgettable experiences. When RHOM approached me, it felt like the perfect platform to bring my personality, culture, and life journey to a broader audience. I wanted to show that being a Black Haitian woman in Miami could bring a fresh perspective to the show and allow me to represent my community authentically.

BHM: Can you share your initial breast cancer diagnosis and how it affected your life, particularly as a Black woman in the public eye?

GA: Receiving my breast cancer diagnosis was a moment of shock and disbelief. I was busy balancing my career, role on RHOM, and responsibilities as a mother and wife when the news hit me, which brought my life to a halt.

I was forced to confront my vulnerability and the reality that cancer affects Black women in unique ways. Being in the public eye added pressure, but I felt a responsibility to be transparent.

My diagnosis intensified my sense of purpose, and I wanted to share my journey to encourage other women to prioritize their health.

I’ve tried to show the raw reality of facing cancer, using my story to promote early detection and self-advocacy.

BHM: What were some of your biggest fears and concerns (if any), considering the unique challenges faced by Black women with breast cancer in the US?

GA: My biggest fear was becoming a statistic and leaving my family behind. I worried about the impact on my family—how would my children cope if my health deteriorated, and how would my husband manage everything?

I was well aware of the disparities Black women face when it comes to breast cancer outcomes, with us often being diagnosed at more advanced stages and receiving lower-quality care.

Hearing that Black women have a 40% higher breast cancer death rate despite a slightly lower incidence rate compared to White women was alarming. The thought of navigating this journey in a system that has historically failed Black women weighed heavily on me. But I was determined to advocate for myself and ensure I received the best possible care.

BHM: As a woman of color (and public persona), how did you navigate the healthcare system and access the treatment and resources you needed?

GA: Navigating the healthcare system was a mix of advocating for myself and being surrounded by a solid support system. I spent time finding the right doctors who specialized in breast cancer treatment and had experience with Black women’s unique health concerns. Being in the public eye added a layer of urgency to my situation—I knew people were watching, and I wanted to set a positive example for other women.

I leveraged my platform to bring awareness to the disparities in healthcare, especially for Black women, and to encourage others to speak up for themselves.

BHM: What were some of the most supportive resources or organizations that helped you during your treatment and recovery?

GA: “To be honest, I leaned heavily on my family throughout my treatment journey. The support of my husband and children was my anchor. I also had incredible care at Memorial Regional Health System, where the staff went above and beyond for me. Organizations like the Susan G. Komen Foundation, Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), and the American Cancer Society (ACS) have been invaluable in providing resources, and I’m particularly connected to SurviveHer, which is a cause close to my heart.”

BHM: What final message do you wish to convey to Black women who are currently diagnosed and looking for support balancing healthcare, family, and work?

GA: My message is simple: prioritize early detection and make your voice heard. A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but there is a strong community here to support you.

Lean into your support network, whether that’s family, friends, or a local support group. When it comes to balancing healthcare, family, and work, give yourself permission to rest, delegate tasks, and seek help.

Your health is your most important priority, and everything else can wait. Finally, know that by taking care of yourself, you’re setting an example for other women who need to see that it’s possible to come out on the other side stronger and more empowered.

Guerdy Abraira’s health journey is a powerful reminder that despite life’s obstacles, resilience and advocacy can light the pathway forward. Her battle with breast cancer has deepened her sense of purpose, motivating her to use her platform to break down stigmas surrounding breast cancer and empower women to prioritize their health. Her message is simple but powerful: you are not alone, and with early detection, self-advocacy, and support, there’s always hope. Guerdy Abraira’s voice carries far beyond reality TV – it calls for resilience and courage to meet life’s challenges head-on.

The post Breast Cancer Turned RHOM Guerdy Abraira’s Life Upside Down appeared first on Black Health Matters.

A Personal Mission

Jonathan Lyndale Kirk, better known as DaBaby, is a well-known music artist who has turned his personal tragedy into a mission to help others. Losing his brother was a wake-up call that pushed him to take action. He teamed up with Mental Health America of Central Carolinas to create a platform that gives young people the mental health support and education they need.

The Importance of Resources

One of DaBaby Cares’ key features is the free Mental Health 101 Guide. Co-written by DaBaby and Mental Health America, this guide covers the basics of mental health and aims to get people talking about it. It’s easy to understand and packed with helpful information.

The program also includes the Glenn Johnson for Mental Health initiative, named after DaBaby’s brother. This initiative focuses on providing real-time support to those struggling with mental health issues. By offering these resources, DaBaby Cares hopes to create a community where people feel safe to seek help.

One of the biggest challenges in mental health care is the stigma that surrounds it. In many communities, especially within our own, mental health issues are often misunderstood or ignored. DaBaby’s platform aims to change this by normalizing conversations about mental health and encouraging people to seek help without fear of judgment.

Making a Real Difference

DaBaby Cares is more than just a program; it’s a push for collective awareness. It urges individuals, communities, and organizations to support mental health initiatives. By providing resources, education, and support, DaBaby Cares is paving the way for a future where mental health is a priority and people feel empowered to seek the help they need.

The Rising Suicide Rates in Our Communities

Recent statistics highlight the urgency of DaBaby’s mission. Suicide rates among Black adolescents and young adults have seen a concerning increase. As reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the suicide rate among Black individuals aged 10-24 increased by 36.6% from 2018 to 2021.

Additionally, the CDC has released data stating that the suicide rate for Black youth between the ages of 10 and 19 passes that of white youth for the first time. That is why we know initiatives like DaBaby Cares are vital. There are so many layers to getting help, whether it be gathering the strength to ask for help, having access to mental health services, or even finding professionals who truly understand you.

DaBaby’s initiative shows how one person can make a big difference. With DaBaby Cares, he’s honoring his brother and helping to fight mental health stigma. This initiative highlights the importance of discussing mental health openly, checking in on our loved ones, and being kind to strangers. It also encourages those who have the means to develop their initiatives. As we all may deal with mental health challenges at some point in our lives, programs like DaBaby Cares can remind us that we’re not alone and that help is available. Let’s strive to keep supporting ourselves and each other; mental health should be a priority in our lives.

The post DaBaby Launches ‘DaBaby Cares’ to Support Mental Health appeared first on Black Health Matters.

“This is the first time I’m writing about what I’m actually going through right now; it’s very cathartic,” Muni shared. “Part of my motivation here is being diagnosed with lupus. A lot of Black women, women, but specifically Black women, get diagnosed with autoimmune disorders because we suppress a lot of things.

The ‘strong Black woman’ trope is actually very toxic, and we should talk about our feelings. We should talk about what we’re going through.

“One song that just evokes a lot of emotion is the title track, ‘Revenge,’ because I talk about some domestic violence in the bridge. I don’t think a lot people understand that I’ve been through a lot, and I don’t talk about it,” Muni said.

“Muni disclosed that she was experiencing domestic violence while trying to embrace her success in the R&B world. When asked about the role of faith during these tough times, Muni shared how challenging it was to navigate her struggles while being told to pray.

“A lot of times, organized religion and old-school thinking will have you in bondage to some very misogynistic beliefs and ideals. And so, a man can do wrong a million times, and you should forgive him because that is the blank thing to do, right? It’s the right thing to do. It’s the Christian thing to do, it’s the feminine thing to do, it’s the wife thing to do, right?”

“But what about all this stress and drama and all that whatever, and him knocking me upside my [head]?

“How much of that should I take before a grown-up realizes I’m out of control and need help? There’s only so much you can do for somebody who doesn’t see the error in their ways. I was a little bit embarrassed that it was happening to me.”

“Muni continued, “I present myself as this very strong [person], which I am, but when you got somebody that’s like 200 pounds coming at you, it’s nothing you can do, you know? If you want to leave, they follow you. It’s very nasty. I don’t wish it on anyone. It’s not that I didn’t want to leave, but the way my life was set up, you don’t expect the love of your life to turn into your enemy.”

“Muni elaborated on the challenges she faced in getting proper support and acknowledgment for her domestic violence experiences from people in her personal life. She highlighted how her abuser skillfully crafted and maintained a specific image, all while neglecting the responsibility of genuinely embodying the persona that others believed.”

“As a mother of one, Muni was determined to change her circumstances. She planned to become a successful singer to escape.

She said, “I just knew no one was coming to save you. I walked down the aisle, so I’m gonna have to figure out how to get up out of this.”

“Viewers likely felt a sense of relief when Muni said, “I’m out of it. I’m free.” She bravely escaped her domestic violence situation and pushed forward, using her music as a personal diary. At the same time, she raised awareness and became an inspiration for domestic violence survivors everywhere.”

During her chat with Terrell, Muni shared that she hasn’t experienced any lupus flare-ups since leaving the toxic environment. This should make us consider how much our surroundings affect our health and well-being.

“Muni’s journey is a powerful testament to prioritizing your physical and mental well-being. Her resilience is truly commendable, and we hope her story inspires other survivors of domestic violence to find their paths to safety. Even if you haven’t experienced domestic violence yourself, it’s essential to believe and support those who have. Your understanding and compassion can make a real difference.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800)-799-7233 or text START to 88788.

The post Muni Long Opens Up About Overcoming Domestic Violence appeared first on Black Health Matters.

According to The New York Times, Ms. Houston was born Emily Drinkard in Newark on September 30th, 1933. She was the youngest of eight children born to Delia Mae and Nicholas Drinkard. Her father encouraged her to sing. By age five, she sang with her sister Anne and brothers Larry and Nicky in local churches as part of a quartet called the Drinkard Four, later called the Drinkard Singers, who once opened for Mahalia Jackson at Carnegie Hall in 1951. They recorded an album, “A Joyful Noise,” on RCA in 1958. While raised in the AME church, she became the Minister of Sacred Music at New Hope Baptist Church.

After her first marriage ended in divorce, she met and married John Houston, with whom she had three children: Gary, Michael, and Whitney. While many equated Cissy Houston with gospel music in the early 1960s, she was better known for R&B music when she collaborated with her family members, nieces Dee Dee and Dionne Warwick, in the girl group The Sweet Inspirations. According to USA Today, the group provided backup vocals for many artists, including Otis Redding, Dusty Springfield, and the Jimi Hendrix Experience.

By the 1970s, Houston was a solo artist releasing records ranging from soul-pop to disco before returning to gospel. In 1997, she won a Grammy in the best Traditional Soul gospel category for her Face to Face album, and two years later, she won again for the album “He Leadeth Me.”

Whitney sang backup on her mother’s albums before she began her solo career, and Cissy sang backup on her daughter’s debut album.

The NY Times quotes Baylor professor Robert Darden, who said Ms. Houston was “a significant figure not because she sold a lot of records, but because of the people she influenced who did sell a lot and because of her work as a sustainer and nurturer of the gospel music tradition.”

Ms. Houston was the matriarch of her family, and although she was under hospice care, her family is feeling her loss. Her daughter released the following statement on behalf of the family:

Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We lost the matriarch of our family,” Pat said in a statement. Mother Cissy has been a strong and towering figure in our lives. She was a woman of deep faith and conviction who cared greatly about family, ministry, and community. Her more than seven-decade career in music and entertainment will remain at the forefront of our hearts.”

Pat continued, “Her contributions to popular music and culture are unparalleled. We are blessed and grateful that God allowed her to spend so many years with us, and we are thankful for all the valuable life lessons that she taught us. May she rest in peace alongside her daughter Whitney, granddaughter Bobbi Kristina, and other cherished family members.”

We extend our sincere condolences to the Houston family.

 

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The post Cissy Houston, Mother of Whitney Houston Has Died at 91 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, John Alan Amos, Jr. was born December 27, 1939, in Newark, NJ. His father drove a tractor-trailer, and his mother, Annabelle, was a housekeeper who became a nutritionist. However, his mother cleaned the home of the cartoonist who drew the Archie comics, and a live taping at Radio City Music Hall sparked his imagination and interest in the industry. He drew comics and acted at East Orange High School but was also a star running back. So Amos was offered a scholarship to Long Beach City College in Southern California and later went to Colorado State University.

“God kept telling me, ‘I don’t want you playing football,” he said. “The direction I was getting from above was to be a performer, to be a writer, something that I had always done and came easy for me.”

Still, Amos did try to play pro football. He tried out with a few teams in the US and Canada, including the Denver Broncos and the Kansas City Chiefs (they cut him twice) trying out with many teams, but it wasn’t meant to be. While in a Vancouver training camp, he met a writer who encouraged him to come to Los Angeles. He landed his first writing gig working for the CBS variety program Leslie Uggams Show. Two producers there were developing the Mary Tyler Moore show and thought Amos would be an ideal choice for Gordy, the weatherman, his first major role. Gordy led to “Maude”, then “Good Times”.

The LA Times says, “For three years and three seasons, Amos was adored by audiences around the country as the tough-loving patriarch of the Evans family on the 1970s sitcom “Good Times.” Amos played James Evans, a hard-working Korean War veteran with a withering stare and sharp wit who did everything he could to provide for his family.”

Evan was like any other great TV dad and loved all his children equally. Amos took issue with the scripts, focusing on JJ Walker’s comedic side at the expense of the other children. His differences with Norman Lear got him killed off of the series. It was never the same.

However, what may have seemed like a loss at the time was an incredible opportunity. Amos landed the chance to play the adult Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking miniseries Roots.

“I couldn’t believe it. It was like I hit the lottery, ” he told the Television Academy in 2014. He was nominated for an Emmy for his work.

Amos had a long, enduring career and went on to play several iconic roles from Cleo McDowell in both “Coming to America” movies and was also a part of the cast of “The West Wing.” He played Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Percy “Fitz” Fitzwallace. His most recent roles were in “The Last Rifleman,” “The Righteous Gemstones,” and “Suits: LA.”

He is survived by his son, Kelly Christopher, and daughter, Shannon. We offer our condolences to their family.

His son said:

“He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold… and he was loved the world over. Many fans consider him their TV father. He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor…”

 

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Following his passing, the NBA released a statement calling Mutombo “larger than life.”

“Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life. On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in the history of the NBA. Off the floor, he poured his heart and soul into helping others,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver wrote.

Mutombo was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He was a bit of a late bloomer. Dikembe didn’t pick up a basketball until he was 17 years old. But it didn’t take much time for his potential to be realized. Not long after he started playing, Mutombo was recruited to play college basketball for Division One powerhouse Georgetown University under Hall of Fame coach John Thompson.

He was named Big East Player of the Year twice at Georgetown in 1990 and 1991 before the Denver Nuggets selected him fourth overall in the 1991 NBA Draft.

In 1196 career NBA games, Mutombo nearly averaged a double-double with 9.8 points and 10.3 rebounds per game.

Mutombo is widely regarded as one of the greatest centers of all time and has the resume to support that claim. Mutombo was named an NBA All-Star eight times, selected to the All-NBA team three times, and the NBA All-Defensive team six times. He is also one of three players to win the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year award four times (Ben Wallace, Rudy Gobert).

Despite already having a Hall of Fame career on the court, Mutombo’s second act was perhaps even more significant. Following his retirement after his last season with the Houston Rockets in 2009, he went all-in with his Dikembe Mutombo Foundation, doing humanitarian to improve the quality of life in his hometown of the Congo.

Mutombo then extended his reach even further. Through his participation in the NBA’s Basketball Without Borders program, he traveled to several parts of Africa, teaching residents basketball and helping improve the infrastructure.

His work earned him several awards, including the NBA’s J. Walter Kennedy Global Citizenship Award and the President’s Service Award, the nation’s highest honor for volunteer service. Following Mutombo’s passing, multitudes of tributes poured in from friends, colleagues, and others Dikembe had touched throughout his life.

“No matter what you know about him as a basketball player, he was an even better human being. One of the most beautiful, beautiful human beings I’ve ever known,” ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith said on Monday’s episode of First Take.

“Dikembe was beloved by the entire NBA community, and his tireless humanitarian efforts left an indelible mark on our league,” Houston Rockets’ owner Tillman Fertitta said.

May Dikembe Mutombo rest in peace.

 

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The post NBA Star Dikembe Mutombo Dead at 58 After Brain Cancer Battle appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Tito Jackson’s journey in music began as a guitarist and background vocalist for the Jackson 5, a group that created hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “I’ll Be There.” Under the guidance of their father, Joe Jackson, the Jackson 5 became a household name and was admitted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.

Outside of his role in the Jackson 5, Tito was a dedicated musician who continued to perform and record music throughout his life. He played with his brothers in the reformed group The Jacksons and pursued a solo career as a blues guitarist. His passion for music was evident in every performance, whether on stage with his family or playing the blues.

In a 2021 interview with Blues Blast magazine, Tito Jackson shared why he chose to transition to the blues genre and how it had always been a part of his musical experiences.

He said, “The blues got me interested in the guitar. I wanted to play music, and I wanted to be on stage again. The blues had been the main music in my family. I just wanted to jam.”

Born on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, Tito was the third of nine Jackson children, which included global superstars Michael and Janet Jackson. The Jackson family’s music careers took off in the late 1960s, leading them to relocate to California to pursue their dreams. Tito’s contributions to the family’s success were tremendous, and his legacy will be remembered for generations.

While the cause of Tito Jackson’s death has not been officially determined, it is believed that he suffered a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma on Sunday. However, an autopsy is being performed to confirm the details. We do know heart disease is a severe health threat to our community.

His passing was a significant loss to the music community and everyone who knew and loved him.

In a 2009 interview with the Associated Press, Tito Jackson reflected on the impact of his brother Michael’s death on the family, saying, “I would say definitely it brought us a step closer to each other. To recognize that the love we have for each other when one of us is not here, what a great loss.” It is heartbreaking to think that these words now resonate as we mourn the loss of another beloved Jackson family member.

With Tito Jackson’s passing, we can remember a man who brought joy to countless lives. From his early days in Gary, Indiana, to his global success with the Jackson 5 and his solo career, Tito’s journey was one of talent and purpose. Beyond the stage, he was a father, a brother, and a friend who touched the hearts of many. His legacy will continue to inspire, reminding us of the joy and warmth he brought to the world.

We extend our condolences to the family, especially his sons Taj, Taryll, and TJ, who lost their mother, Delores Martes Jackson, in 1994.

 

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Michaela DePrince passed away on September 10th, and her mother, Elaine DePrince, died on September 11 during a medical procedure. She was not aware of her daughter’s death, according to a Facebook post by family spokesperson Jessica Volonski.

When she was born in Sierra Leone in 1995, her name was Mabinty Bangura. The New York Times review of her Young Adult memoir, Taking Flight  (which she co-authored with her mother, Elaine) says, “DePrince suffered more in her first four years than most children who will encounter this book could ever understand.” Those things include rebels killing her father when she was three and her mother dying of disease and starvation not long after. Her uncle labeled her devil-child because of her vitiligo (a skin condition in which you lose patches of color) and left her at an orphanage, and there she became orphan number 27, the least favored child.

In her memoir, DePrince recalled carrying only a page torn from a magazine when the orphans fled to Guinea.

“[A]white lady . . . wearing a very short, glittering pink skirt that stuck out all around her.” That ballerina photo, she writes, was one of the only things “that reminded me I was alive[.]”

The page was one of the first things she showed her adoptive mother. And so she began dancing as a young child.

Michaela DePrince received the Youth American Grand Prix Scholarship to train at the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School at the American Ballet Theater. Also, she trained at the Rock School of Dance Education in Philadelphia. Her professional journey, along with that of other aspiring ballet dancers, was chronicled in the documentary First Position. Plus, there is a Disney short called Ballerina, where DePrince shared her story—from Sierra Leone to the present.

DePrince made her professional debut as a guest principal dancer at the Joburg Ballet in South Africa. She was 17 when she performed with the Dance Theatre of Harlem. At 18, she joined the Dutch National Junior Company. In 2021, she joined the Boston Ballet as the second soloist.

However, DePrince also had the distinction of being recruited to dance in a Beyoncé video. According to The WSJ, “She said I looked like I was a creature from another planet,” DePrince said of an exchange with the pop star. She recalled being starstruck by the singer. “She walked up to me and said, ‘It’s such an honor to have you here.’ I was really cheesy and said, ‘The honor is mine.’ I was on cloud nine.”

Beyond dancing, DePrince was a humanitarian; she served as an ambassador for War Child, whose mission is to improve the resilience and well-being of children worldwide who live with violence and armed conflict.

During her time with us, DePrince made her mark through ballet, books, film projects, and humanitarian efforts. She also showed others with vitiligo that the condition was nothing to be ashamed of. No cause of death is known at this time.

We extend our sincere condolences to the family and the loss of Michaela and Elaine DePrince.

 

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Check out her website’s collaboration page to learn who Michaela DePrince was.

The post Ballet Dancer Michaela DePrince Has Died at 29 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

He made us happy.

According to The Philadephia Tribune, the crooner was born on December 6, 1946, and was influenced early by gospel music and singing in the church. He got the nickname Frankie because he was a fan of Frankie Lyman. While attending Germantown High School, he formed his first short-lived group, the Blenders, inspired by doo-woop groups.

In 1963, he founded the Butlers. They became Raw Soul in 1971 after moving to San Francisco. According to the New York Times, Marvin Gaye took the group under his wing after suggesting the final name change, to Frankie Beverly & Maze.

He created a soundtrack that transcended generations.

If you read Rolling Stone’s stats, they don’t capture Beverly’s true impact and what he meant to our community.

“Between 1977 and 1993, Beverly and Maze enjoyed a wildly successful run, during which they dropped eight studio albums and two live records. Eight of those 10 projects earned gold certification, and two — 1985’s Can’t Stop the Love and 1989’s Silky Soul — topped the Billboard R&B Albums chart. Those two records featured the group’s two Number One songs on the R&B Singles Chart, too, “Back in Stride” and “Can’t Get Over You.”

The Amsterdam News got it right when they called the baritone “the quintessential soul man and voice of the cookout.”

The paper wrote, “No better tune exemplifies the slow-yet-steady rise of Maze than “Before I Let Go.” Originally released in 1981 as a studio cut on a live album, the song peaked at No. 13 on Billboard’s R&B chart. In the 30-plus years since, the song grew to be played at the end of parties, the beginning of receptions, and everywhere in between.”

But Beverly was also the unofficial King of the White Party. He often donned all white for his performances, and his audiences followed his dress code. It became the “official attire” for the group’s concerts. One of the most significant places it was on display was EssenceFest.

Frankie Beverly & Maze was the official closing act for the festival’s first 15 years. This summer, organizers paid tribute to him before he returned home to perform for the final stop of his farewell tour at the Dell Music Center in North Philly on July 6th. After 50 years of performing, the crooner had announced his retirement.

Just a couple of months earlier, on the 6000 block of Norwood Street, near his childhood home in Germantown, he participated in the ceremonial renaming of “Frankie Beverly Way.”

The cause of Beverly’s death is unknown at this time. We extend our condolences to his family and all who loved him.

The band will continue as Maze Honoring Frankie Beverly, according to Billboard.

We thank him for all the happy feelings he gave us.

Finally, listening to Frankie Beverly’s music may have improved our mood and outlook. Psychology Today says. Listening to happy music can influence how one perceives the world in a stressful situation. Upbeat tunes, for example, can give one an optimistic outlook and make one feel better.

The post Frankie Beverly, R&B Soul Singer and Maze’s Main Man Has Died appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Jones was a talent who could meet us at every level. He got his start doing Shakespeare and loved doing everything from “King Lear” to “Othello.” According to the New York Times, Jones was among the first Black actors to appear in Guiding Light and As the World Turns in the 1960s. We loved seeing him in revivals like “Cat on a Hot Roof,” “On Golden Pond,” and “The Gin Game.” Action-adventure and animated features.

But before his voice became known as that of Darth Vadar and for his turn in “Field of Dreams,” he was  Roop in “Claudine,” who romanced Diahann Carroll. Cut up with Sidney Poitier and Bill Cosby in “A Piece of the Action.” He gave Eddie Murphy a hard time as King Jaffe Joffer in “Coming to America” and offered wise counsel as the voice of Mufasa in “The Lion King.”

Jones especially enjoyed working with playwright August Wilson. He won his second Tony award for Lead Actor (play) for Wilson’s “Fences” in 1987. When PBS American Masters asked him about his experience working with Wilson, Jones said,” Most of August’s plays are about migration from greater pain to lesser pain—from the greater pain of the rural South to the lesser pain of urban Pittsburgh.”

Jones was born in Arkabula, Mississippi, on January 17, 1931. The Vicksburg Post reports that he was sent to live with his grandparents at five. It was after moving to Michigan that Jones developed a severe stutter.

In an interview with achievement.org. Jones said, “I was an adopted child of my grandparents, and I don’t know how I can ever express my gratitude for that because my parents would have been a mess. And there were considerations about that, “where should I go,” and that began to bother me when I’d hear those discussions at night.

“Where should James Earl go?” But it was the journey itself that I really felt. The being ripped from the soil is what set me into a state of trauma. So, by the time I got to Michigan, I was a stutterer. I couldn’t talk. So my first year of school was my first mute year, and then those mute years continued until I got to high school.”

It was a teacher in high school who helped him find ways to manage his stuttering.

While the cause of James Earl Jones’ death has not been disclosed, the actor did have type II diabetes. He was first diagnosed in the 1990s when he was in his 60s. However, he did not publicly discuss his diagnosis until 2018, when he talked with Good Housekeeping about it.

The actor told Good Housekeeping.

“I didn’t notice any symptoms,” Jones says. “I had gone to a diet and exercise program hoping to lose some weight and ended up falling asleep sitting on a bench in the gymnasium. My doctor, who happened to be there, said that’s not normal. He encouraged me to go get a test, and I did — and there it was: type 2 diabetes. It hit me like a thunderbolt.”

Jones continued to work on Broadway and in movies for more than thirty years with type II diabetes, which is a testament to his diligence in following the critical things he cited: a support group, a balanced diet, exercise, and attention to mental health.

In a 1998 interview, Denzel Washington said, “There weren’t a lot of serious Black actors for us to emulate, to follow, to admire. There was Sidney [Poitier]; it was James Earl Jones on stage. That’s what I remember.”

With Jones’ death, two of the performers who inspired the most decorated Black actor in Oscars history are gone. But what a legacy they have left behind.

Our condolences to the family.

The post Award-Winning Actor James Earl Jones Has Died appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Check out her special message.

[Full Transcript]

0:00
Hi, everybody.

0:01
Today I have the opportunity to talk to Sherri Shepherd, talk show host, comedian, actress, podcaster, and we’re talking today about her journey as Type 2 diabetic and her partnership with Pfizer in the This is Your Shot campaign, which is to raise awareness on the risk factors on pneumococcal pneumonia.

0:30
So stay tuned as we have a brief discussion on her journey as a type 2 diabetic, how she’s taken charge of her health, and why she partnered with Pfizer on this campaign.

0:44
Because she’s a type 2 diabetic, she has increased risk factors for contracting pneumococcal pneumonia, and she’ll tell us about that.

1:09
So Sherri, this is an exciting time for you and your career.

1:12
You’re gearing up for season three of your award-winning talk show.

1:19
You and Kim Whitley are keeping us laughing with two funny Mamas.

1:24
You’re touring with your stand up, you’re acting, and you’re still Jeffrey’s Mama.

1:30
Even though he’s grown.

1:31
Grown.

1:32
He thinks he’s grown.

1:33
When do you sleep?

1:34
Yes, I don’t.

1:37
I don’t sleep, but I keep reading.

1:41
I keep reading that I need sleep.

1:43
So I try to build it in and and don’t let, hey, a nap is very, very underrated, but I’m into naps.

1:51
Naps are good.

1:51
Naps are good.

1:52
But seriously, sleep is important, especially when you have a health condition like diabetes, like type 2 diabetes.

1:59
So, I see how you stepped up your health and fitness regimen, right?

2:03
I’ve been watching your Instagram, especially since you started your talk show and I see you in the gym. I opt. I’ve been watching your Instagram, especially since you started just talking, your talk show, and you moved back to New York.

2:15
Yeah, walk.

2:17
Since you moved back to New York, NY, what other adjustments have you made since you optimized your health when you were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes?

2:30
Well, I’ve really been working on being fit and eating better, really, really eating better because so much, you know, how you feel is what you put inside of you.

2:43
So definitely the eating better.

2:46
Again, looking at my health, there are things that I can prevent, which is why I partnered with Pfizer because I learned that being diabetic, I’m at a five times higher risk of getting pneumococcal pneumonia.

2:59
That scared me, so I went and got vaccinated.

3:03
And you know, that’s another thing, just like looking after my health. That’s myself here, right?

3:10
That’s that’s a really important, that’s a really important point.

3:13
So being being proactive with your health really, really, really important.

3:19
So, what do you think was the biggest obstacle you overcame when you started thinking about being in better health?

3:28
Because it’s not an easy journey.

3:31
So the biggest obstacle I had to overcome was I think it was discipline, you know, because I’m a stressor.

3:42
So anything, anything happens.

3:43
I want something fried.

3:45
I want something chocolatey that melts in your mouth.

3:47
It’s gonna make me zoom out.

3:50
And that was a that was a very hard thing for me.

3:52
I mean, off addition to sugar and and you know, fried foods and stuff that was not good for me.

3:59
But you know, I had to do a lot of self talk and think about what I wanted for my future.

4:04
I just think about what I wanted for my son.

4:06
And again, like I was saying, I when I learned about the fact that because I had diabetes, I was at risk for pneumococcal pneumonia and that I could be in the hospital, I could even possibly die, that really, you know, made me sit up straight.

4:24
So what?

4:25
Let’s talk about this partnership with Pfizer for a minute.

4:28
So why would tell us why, you know, it’s the, the, the risks are high, but was especially a critical talk to talk to me about being a diabetic and, and knowing the risks and talking to other diabetics about understanding, you know, what it means to be a diabetic and understanding living as a diabetic and how you have to know your risks for other things.

5:08
I think, you know, being diabetic, I think a lot of people thinks, think that it’s just, you know, diet and exercise.

5:16
But when you’re a diabetic, like I’m a type 2 diabetic, I’ve been at .2 diabetes since probably 2007.

5:24
Your body’s just vulnerable to so many more things, you know, and I think a lot of people don’t realize that.

5:31
They don’t realize we’re susceptible to many things like a pneumococcal pneumonia.

5:38
I didn’t know that, you know, I thought, oh, I’m, I’m working out at the gym and I’m eating, right.

5:43
But the fact of the matter is, is I have diabetes, which my immune system is compromised all the time.

5:50
And I think a lot of people who have diabetes, they don’t know that.

5:53
And so I’m really, anybody who knows me knows and I am so passionate about health and living a successful life with diabetes.

6:03
And when I found this out that I’m at a five times higher risk of getting pneumococcal pneumonia than anybody else.

6:09
When I found out that the people from the ages of 19 to 64 are susceptible to pneumococcal pneumonia if they have asthma or COPD or diabetes and that you can prevent it or, you know, you can take a preventative measure by getting vaccinated, I was like, you know what, I gotta let people know this cause a lot of people we just don’t know.

6:33
So if somebody somebody has is at risk for pneumococcal pneumonia, what do they need to do?

6:41
They need to talk to their pharmacist or their doctor about getting vaccinated and they can go to vaxassist.com and it’s VAX assist.com.

6:52
It’s really, really, I think people don’t realize what a serious issue it is.

6:56
Sometimes we think, oh, we get sick, you know, we just take our little, you know, that, you know, a cold and cough medicine and we’re fine.

7:02
But no, when you’re diabetic, you have underlying conditions like diabetes or asthma or COPD.

7:08
It’s much more serious if you get pneumococcal pneumonia because it’s a, it’s a bacterial lung infection, which means it literally can put you in the hospital.

7:19
You could die from this.

7:20
And when I talk to people having diabetes, it’s like we got a family.

7:25
You got people who are depending on you, you have children, you have your partner.

7:29
So it’s so serious.

7:30
And I really, really encourage everyone to talk to their doctor, talk to their pharmacist, go to vaxassist.com to find out more about getting vaccinated and taking a preventative measure so that you can, because it’ll get you anytime, any season, any day.

7:47
It’s not something that just comes for a month.

7:50
You don’t know when you can catch this.

7:52
So if you know better, what is that saying?

7:54
If you know better, you can do better?

7:57
Exactly, Exactly.

7:59
And I think that also we know more about having type 2 diabetes and that we should take it more seriously, right?

8:08
So you have lost family members to type 2 diabetes and you have changed the narrative in your family.

8:17
So how let’s encourage other people to change the narrative And there’s What would you suggest to people who want to do the same?

8:27
You know, I think that we lead the way.

8:29
We’re so amazing.

8:29
We lead the way of so many things.

8:31
Everybody wants to be like us, you know, and I think that we’re falling behind and getting this vaccination so that we can prevent pneumococcal pneumonia.

8:41
And I would just encourage everyone to, you know, really take it seriously.

8:45
Diabetes, we so used to calling it the sugar, and that’s a cute term, but it’s not, it’s not at all accurate.

8:51
It is something that if we don’t take care of our diabetes, we don’t learn to manage it.

8:56
We don’t take the preventive measures.

8:58
This is something that could really take us out as it has done many members in my family.

9:04
And I don’t believe that our life is supposed to be cut short that way.

9:07
So I would just encourage people go to your doctor, go to your pharmacy pharmacist and ask them about getting that vaccine for getting vaccinated for pneumococcal pneumonia.

9:20
Because again, like I said, if you have underlying conditions like COPD, like asthma, like diabetes, diabetics were five times a higher risk than everybody else.

9:32
That’s a lot.

9:33
And you got a big wide age age group, 19 to 64.

9:39
So that would affect everybody.

9:41
That’s not, this is not a old people’s disease, 19 years old.

9:45
My son Jeffrey is 19.

9:48
So I just would urge everybody call up your doctor, call up your pharmacist and ask them about getting vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia.

9:58
Take the take the preventive measures so at least you can feel comfortable and confident about living day-to-day and knowing, OK, I’ve done something.

10:08
I feel good.

10:08
Well, thank you, Sherry.

10:11
Thank you.

10:11
I really appreciate your time.

10:14
Thank you for doing fight in a good fight and be and be an example of what you’re supposed to do when you have type 2 diabetes.

10:23
Because if if we see more of this, we know what to do.

10:29
Yeah, I want people to know diabetes is not a death sentence because if we’re doing things that where we can prevent things for happening to us because we’re in a vulnerable position, you’ll feel so much better.

10:41
You’ll feel so much more confident and you will feel like you can take life by the what does that say?

10:45
Life by the horns and and live.

10:48
But we want to live.

10:49
We want to do, you know, so that’s why I’m so I’m so like gung ho about telling people to, you know, talk to the pharmacist, talk to the doctor about getting vaccinated.

10:59
So that’s one less thing you got to worry about on that road to moving forward.

11:05
Exactly.

11:07
Now Sherry can do it.

11:08
We can do it y’all.

11:11
Absolutely.

11:13
Thank you, Sherry, thank you so much.

11:17
Have a great day.

The post Sherri Shepherd On Diabetes and Pneumococcal Pneumonia appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Since my diagnosis, I have worked with my team of doctors to manage my overall health and wellness. But I have also spread the word about kidney education in our community, particularly AMKD. We celebrated the first annual APOL1-mediated Disease Day on April 30th, but it won’t be our last. Here is why I think recognizing the day and the condition was significant:

What is APOL1-mediated kidney disease?

APOL1-mediated kidney disease, or AMKD, is a genetic kidney disease caused by certain variants in the APOL1 gene. AMKD progresses silently, and many people don’t have symptoms until the disease reaches an advanced stage. This can cause severe kidney damage and even kidney failure, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.

What role does genetics play in this disease?

The APOL1 gene plays a role in our body’s immune system to fight threats. Everyone has two copies of the APOL1 gene passed down to them from their parents. Some people are more at risk for developing AMKD based on the copies of the gene they receive. Certain APOL1 variants are associated with developing AMKD; if an individual inherits a “risk variant” from both parents, they may develop AMKD. Genetic studies show that these APOL1 risk variants are found worldwide in people with African ancestry.

The link between APOL1 and kidney disease was only discovered in 2010, and many people haven’t heard of APOL1 or AMKD – which is why it’s especially meaningful to raise awareness for this disease and its underlying cause.

What should we know about kidney disease in our families?

Since AMKD is a genetic disease, I encourage you to be proactive in starting conversations to see if others in your family have been diagnosed with kidney disease and/or AMKD. It can be difficult to open the dialogue at first, but the information you gain is extremely valuable in determining whether you should talk to your doctor about AMKD. If you’re unsure where to start, check out the AMKD Conversation Guide on PowerForwardTogether.com or visit the American Kidney Fund’s website for additional resources.

Why are Black populations at an increased risk for AMKD?

Over the past 3,000 to 10,000 years, the APOL1 gene evolved in people who lived in Western and Central Africa to protect them from resistant forms of the parasite that causes human African trypanosomiasis. While these genetic variants help protect against human African trypanosomiasis, they may also cause kidney disease, known as AMKD.

As people from these regions have migrated around the world, they have taken these genetic variants in the APOL1 gene with them. Today, people of African ancestry may carry these APOL1 variants, including (but not limited to) people who identify as Black, African American, Afro-Caribbean, and Latino/Latina.

Approximately 13% of African Americans have two APOL1 risk variants, which significantly increases their risk of developing kidney disease.

In what ways does AMKD affect our lives?

AMKD can progress silently, and you may not notice any symptoms until the disease has progressed significantly. It can lead to severe kidney damage, life-long dialysis, a kidney transplant, or even death.

I was at the height of my basketball career when I started noticing extreme lethargy and swelling in my legs and feet, but I assumed these symptoms were just a result of my rigorous training and travel schedule. It wasn’t until I had my regular check-up that my doctors found abnormalities, which eventually led to my kidney disease diagnosis. I worked closely with my doctor and care team to stay as healthy as possible and was fortunate to receive a kidney transplant eventually.

The best way to manage AMKD is to detect it early, so I encourage you to be proactive about your health and see a doctor regularly.

If you have chronic kidney disease, can you be tested for AMKD? What does the process involve?

If you are of African ancestry, have a family history of kidney disease, or have symptoms of AMKD, talk to your doctor to see if getting tested may be the right next step for you. An early diagnosis is important to getting back in the game, and, for AMKD, to confirm an AMKD diagnosis, that is genetic testing. You can learn more about APOL1 genetic testing on PowerForwardTogether.com or KidneyFund.org and talk to your doctor about whether genetic testing is right for you.

What does it mean to you personally to help raise awareness for AMKD?

Raising awareness about AMKD is important to me because I know that there are people out there who are living with kidney disease and may not even know it yet. I brushed off my own symptoms as the effects of my rigorous basketball training schedule. It was only when my routine lab results showed abnormalities that I realized it was a more serious matter and one that would eventually change my life.

I want to encourage others to be more proactive than I was at first. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about your kidney health. Ask questions and find out if your family has a history of kidney disease.

Taking the initiative to learn about AMKD has also been an empowering journey. I lived a very active lifestyle, so my diagnosis came as a shock. However, after contributing my genetic information to a 2010 study that identified the genetic cause of AMKD, I understood that I wasn’t at fault for developing AMKD; it all came down to my genes. I want to share that feeling of empowerment with as many people as possible.

Why was it necessary to set aside a day specifically for AMKD Awareness? How is it different from National Kidney Month?

It’s important for each of us to take charge of our kidney health because many people suffer from chronic kidney disease, but AMKD continues to go misdiagnosed or undiagnosed because people have no idea it exists. AMKD Awareness Day is an initiative to spread information about this form of kidney disease and encourage people to talk more proactively with their families, friends, and doctors about kidney health and AMKD.

What was the theme/messaging of the first-ever AMKD Awareness Day?

The American Kidney Fund encouraged everyone to “Be APOL1 Aware” for this inaugural AMKD Awareness Day. Again, a lot of people don’t know about AMKD or how family history and genetics can impact their chances of developing it. I want more people to know how game-changing it is to be proactive. AMKD is a rapidly progressive disease that can lead to severe kidney damage or kidney failure. If we remain unaware, we remain uninformed. Spreading awareness gives people the resources to be proactive and seek out information about their family history and their chances of developing AMKD.

Why was the American Kidney Fund an important part of this initiative?

The American Kidney Fund has led the charge in establishing AMKD Awareness Day, and I am grateful for their leadership in spreading information about AMKD and providing resources to help people power forward and take charge of their health. I hope their resources and information will help empower people, especially those of African ancestry, to start conversations with their families and doctors about kidney health.

Alonzo Mourning is a paid spokesperson for Vertex Pharmaceuticals.

The post Basketball Hall-of-Famer Alonzo Mourning Reflects on the Importance of the First Annual APOL1-mediated Kidney Disease (AMKD) Awareness Day appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Check out their chat (and the transcript is also below).

Roslyn Young-Daniels (00:15):

So listen, Mr. Rucker. Yes ma’am. What does Black health mean to you?

Lamman Rucker (00:20):

Oh, that’s such a huge question, but really it means everything. It means being, well, it means it’s beyond feeling good. It’s being well, and I think that’s the difference we’ve gotten in the habit of just making sure something hurts. Let me do what I can to feel better. But the problem’s not solved. We don’t really know even where the issue may come from. We know it hasn’t gone away, but we don’t really want all the information because then the truth really forces us to do something different. So, just for me, it’s really my hope that we get beyond the short-term gratification of how we’ve defined black health and really understand the long-term, not just definition, but the long-term value of wellness.

Roslyn Young-Daniels (01:19):

What inspires you?

Lamman Rucker (01:21):

I don’t even know how I found myself here, to be honest with you, but at the same time, of course I would. How can you not? Because I’m a human being, first of all. I live in, I got a body, I have a mind, I have a heart. And even I talk a lot about even just being an artist. I’m always navigating the worlds of what’s happening with other people. Then, as an educator, my life has been committed to children and families and the community. And then there’s countless stories and testimonies of what it means to be well, and you know what unhealthy families look like. You know what malnourished children look like and how all these things are interconnected. How unhealthy environments contribute to us being mentally not well contribute to everything from all the other factors that we can think of. So when you look at cycles of violence, they’re all typically reflections of desperation or fear or other deficiencies that exist.

(02:38):

So that’s something that I was never comfortable with, just being okay with. So one of the things I was taught, one of the things that just I learned, and I don’t even know if this language was given to me, but I just always felt like it was more important to be part of the solution and not part of the problem. So whatever ways I can contribute to how we move the needle forward and heal ourselves, there’s only so much healing of one another that we can do, but we can encourage, facilitate, and model. We can provide information, resources, encouragement, inspiration, motivation, and information. So to me, how many jobs is that? And I’ve just always found my way into that space. But as an actor, artist, educator, activist, entrepreneur, philanthropist, all the adjectives or labels I can put in front or behind my name at some point, it’s just about living in your own humanity and connecting to the humanity in other people.

(03:53):

And I don’t know, maybe even as a little boy, we all want to be superheroes. So, this is my way of saving lives. This is my way of putting an L on my chest, not Superman, just being myself, right? This is my version of being incredible Hulk, or being Spiderman or Batman or all the things you imagine as a child. You want to be part of what’s good. You want to, and I really, even philosophically, I think everybody should figure out what is your superpower? You have it you. There’s something about you that’s special, and that’s supposed to impact some other public and the greater good. And I think the sooner you figure that out and the sooner you even find what that is for you and about you, then you can’t wait to give it away. We can’t take it with us. And if you do, it’s gone once it’s gone.

(04:54):

Unless you give it away to everybody you possibly can, then it never dies. That love, positive energy, healing, teaching, whatever that is, it keeps going. And that’s what’s got us this far. That’s true on this continent. We’ve been dealing with a whole lot of stuff. There’s no way we’d be here without those same elements. So I’m just doing what’s already been done before. It just happens to be on a loop, maybe more public platforms, but I’m living the life and doing the things that my ancestors have been doing for countless, countless, countless years. So I’m just continuing to just do my part in whatever way I can. Best ways. I know how.

Roslyn Young-Daniels (05:32):

That’s wonderful. One last question. When we have these types of events, women make up about 80% of our audience,

Lamman Rucker (05:40):

I didn’t notice.

Roslyn Young-Daniels (05:43):

What can you personally say to the brothers out there to make them be more proactive about their health? To have them show up and engage more in health services processes and in their access to care?

Lamman Rucker (06:00):

Well, that’s one. Hey brothers, all the women are here.

Lamman Rucker (06:06):

Alright. Eight to 80 are here. No, but no, but at the same time, more seriously, I think, and this is the kind of work I’m even actively doing now, I’ve got a mental health tour where one of the topics that always comes up is men being honest about what’s really going on with them. And I think that that’s something that you all can all help us with. Men can do that not only for themselves, but for one another and not just, oh baby, you need to go to the doctor. But it’s that a lot of how we’ve all been socialized, and again, no disrespect is that the woman’s body is the only body that’s important. Our bodies aren’t important. Our job is the work ourselves to death for you, but never to prioritize our own health, our own wellness. And some women actually perpetuate that as opposed to no son, father, husband, brother, daddy, uncle, whatever.

(07:06):

Your body is just as important as mine. Just because you can’t bear children doesn’t make you any less valuable. I need you. I want you here. Do this together. When y’all go get checked, take him with you. And similarly, like I said, hey, come. These shouldn’t be things we do in segments or fragmenting the household. Oh, okay. Oh, there’s a health summit. Okay, alright baby, you go here, you go to that. I’m going to go over here and do this. No, let’s do this. Right? This is a family event. This isn’t a women’s event. And even when it is, there’s still information at these women’s events that benefits us. I’m learning all the time when I’m in the green room, I’m learning all the time. I’m listening. I was having a conversation last night and I’m learning about women coming into their womanhood as teenagers and preteens stuff I’ve never heard.

(08:02):

As long as I’ve been doing this work, as much as I’ve even been involved in educated in reproductive health and working with young girls and families and so forth, I’m learning new stuff every day. So there’s so much to learn. If we stay engaged and we make sure that we are actively participating and not feeling like we’re on the sidelines, this is just as important to us. Even knowing about you all and knowing what’s going on with you is helpful to us. It helps us love you more. It helps us understand you even when we don’t understand you most of the time, or no, I’m saying even when we don’t know what’s going on, there’s ways for us to know and learn and understand that if we’re part of the conversation. Instead, we often see ourselves as doing two different things. Oh, that’s for them.

(08:50):

This is for us. We forget that. However different our bodies are, our bodies are also very much the same. Our hearts are the same. We might go about how we communicate a little differently, but we’re still often asking for the same needs. It’s the same conversation that’s being had. We might just be having it a little differently. So we got a lot of stuff we have to work through. But there’s also ways that some of this can maybe speak to us a little bit more. How is this experience maybe targeted to women in ways that it’s not actually targeted and market to men? Sometimes that happens even unbeknownst to you. So there’s some of that. I think there are things we can do differently, but a lot of it is just encouraging men to tell the truth and acknowledge how well you really are. Like you said, go to the doctor.

(09:41):

The truth doesn’t stop being true just because you don’t go and find out the truth. Our heart health, our bodies, our minds, all that’s important. Don’t wait until something’s a problem before you go to the doctor. Go long before any problems ever show up. So these problems can be prevented. And if we really want to take care of our families, if we really want to provide and show up and protect and all these things, we can’t do that if we’re not here. We can’t do that if we’re not healthy or well inside and out. So you can look as good as you want to look. You have as many muscles as you want, but if you’re not really well, we’re not well. Our families aren’t well, and again, those things perpetuate if we’re not careful. So there are numerous different things, but much of it is just staying connected. Keep us in the conversation, talk to us, and love and encourage us to participate in this in support of you and solidarity with you, but also for our own good.

Roslyn Young-Daniels (10:45):

Awesome. Alright. Thank you, Lamman.

The post Lamman Rucker On Advocating For Health, Wellness and Black Men appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Affectionately known as “The Finisher,” Mister Cee was previously a disc jockey on Hot 97 and a fixture on the party scene in New York and New Jersey. Up until the time of his death, he was spinning at 94.7 The Block. The latter released a statement on social media reacting to LeBrun’s sudden passing in a joint post with another host at the station, Shelley Wade.

“Yesterday was such an emotionally traumatizing day. For hours, we were concerned because we couldn’t reach Mister Cee…and then we got confirmation that he had passed away,” the statement read. They posted a still image of the iconic Apollo Theater, a loving farewell tribute to LeBrun, acknowledging the gap in the culture he left behind.

According to the American Journal of Public Health, “Black men continue to have substantially lower life expectancy at birth than Black women and White women and men” and “There is a lag in increases in survival between the ages of 45 and 75 years for Blacks with the largest gap in survival for Black men.” In 2019, NPR reported that “Black men have the lowest life expectancy of any major demographic group in the U.S.”

LeBrun is not the only legendary producer or artist to leave the limelight tragically early. Biz Markie died at 57 as well after suffering a severe stroke. COVID-19 claimed the life of DJ Kay Slay at 55. The sun set on Phife Dawg’s life due to diabetes complications at just 45. Heart failure led to the death of Craig Mack at 46. Their absence reflects the truth that fame does not isolate Black men from devastatingly short life expectancies. Pioneers in hip-hop like Mister Cee, who worked closely with the late Notorious B.I.G. and Big Daddy Kane, arrived on the scene before the maturation of the genre’s financial potential, placing them in a different economic position than the moguls who succeeded them.

Miss Jones, another iconic radio personality, commented on the need for hip-hop to have a health fund to help provide access to care for those called to create and promote the art form during an interview with PIX 11. She implied that a duty of care is owed to hip-hop people who paved the way and that a fund should be established. The same argument has been made for legends in other industries, including professional sports. Rappers Method Man, Fat Joe, French Montana, Busta Rhymes, and Chuck D have called for greater transparency in healthcare pricing, calling on Congress to pass legislation preventing opaque business practices.

Like many creative careers, those who dedicate their life to hip-hop often have trouble accessing health insurance consistently. D.J.s are among them. Even those lucky enough to find consistent work that offers traditional health care plans frequently find that later in their careers, they are playing catch up. Leaving a large chunk of time that they are uninsured or underinsured creates a prickly legacy of barriers to treatment. This lets routine and preventable ailments go left untreated.

The post The Sudden Death Of Mister Cee Highlights The Need For Healthcare in Hip-Hop appeared first on Black Health Matters.

‘Some people’s bodies reject dialysis. And thank God that mine accepts it, and I can live… If I didn’t go to dialysis, I wouldn’t live probably longer than a week or two, “Robinson told The Daily Mail. “So it’s serious, can’t miss a day.” The Three Time Dunk champion has been hospitalized several times due to painful vomiting. When Robinson was drafted and ended up with the Knicks in 2005, he was told his blood pressure was high. Follow-up tests showed his kidneys were failing, yet he went on to have a career that spanned 11 seasons.

We wanted to know more about the factors at play regarding Black men and kidney disease, so we went to Dr. Kirk Campbell, President-Elect of the National Kidney Foundation, and Irene and Dr. Arthur M. Fishberg Professor of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital.

BHM: Nate Robinson isn’t the first athlete we’ve heard of who battled kidney disease. What factors are at play that lead to their diagnosis?

Dr. Campbell: An active lifestyle with healthy dietary practices is important for overall and kidney health. However, individuals can still get kidney disease due to non-lifestyle related reasons. These could include genetic predispositions, hypertension, diabetes, and other systemic medical conditions.

BHM: Are there genetic predispositions at play?

Dr. Campbell: Approximately 10% of patients with chronic kidney disease have identifiable causative single-gene mutations. This does not include even more common genetic modifiers of kidney disease. An example is mutations in the gene APOL1, encoding Apolipoprotein L1. Approximately 14% of African Americans have APOL1 high-risk genotypes. These mutations account for up to 70% of nondiabetic kidney disease in African Americans and up to 40% of end-stage kidney disease requiring dialysis in this demographic.

BHM: Are Black men more predisposed to kidney disease than Black women?

Dr. Campbell: Black men in the US are the demographic group with the highest lifetime risk of kidney failure. A recent report found that though Black Men made up a little over 6% of the US population, they accounted for almost 17% of chronic kidney disease cases. The reasons are multi-factorial and include potentially higher rates and variable management of kidney disease risk factors, including hypertension and diabetes. Access to care and socioeconomic factors could also contribute.

In the meantime, Robinson is holding on for when he feels healthy and normal to spend time with his family and children. And there is still time for Robinson to find a compatible donor.

The post Ex-NBA Veteran Nate Robinson Desperately Needs a Kidney Transplant appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Anthony Anderson is a paid spokesperson for Novo Nordisk and this article is sponsored by Novo Nordisk.

Can you tell us about your experience with type 2 diabetes?
I was first diagnosed at age 29. I was familiar with the symptoms, such as excessive thirst and frequent bathroom trips,¹ but one night, no matter how hard I tried to quench my thirst, I couldn’t. That’s when I knew something was going on. I went to see my doctor and after tests showed my glucose level was off the charts, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. It was a reality check. Immediately I thought, okay, where did I go wrong? What did I do that led to this? What do I do now? At first, I went on medication and followed a plan, but looking back, I didn’t take the disease too seriously. I was the first person in my family to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, followed by my mother, Mama Doris, and, finally, the father who raised me.

What did you do after you were diagnosed?
I made a lifestyle change, starting with being conscious about my health, getting fit, and listening to my healthcare professionals. No matter what your lifestyle is like, prioritizing healthy eating and exercise takes a lot—but you can also start small and go from there. At first, I took the stairs instead of the elevator. I walked around my neighborhood and ate healthy foods, but also took the advice of my doctor to enjoy things in moderation before phasing them out of my diet. Over time, it made a difference. I’ve learned there’s no secret to type 2 diabetes—you’re either managing it, or it’s hurting you.

How did you “get real” about your diabetes?
My diagnosis made me think back to my childhood. I remembered things about my dad’s life: the late-night bathroom breaks, the midday sleeping and being lethargic. I realized he had diabetes my entire life and had never been diagnosed. Ultimately, we lost him to cardiovascular disease. It wasn’t until his death that we learned he had been living with type 2 diabetes all this time, completely unmanaged. It was a tragic loss and made me think, “I don’t want to do that to my family. I don’t want to become a statistic.” That’s when I got real about managing my type 2 diabetes.

What do you want people to know about type 2 diabetes and its associated risks?
Most importantly, learn what puts you at risk of getting type 2 diabetes. This includes family history, obesity, age, whether you live an active lifestyle or are part of a high-risk ethnic group, like me as a Black man.¹
My doctor told me that having type 2 diabetes also puts you at increased risk of CKD and experiencing a major cardiovascular event like stroke, heart attack, or death^2-4 Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in people living with type 2 diabetes.⁷ On top of that, about 40% of people with type 2 diabetes live with CKD,⁸ yet nearly 90% of adults with CKD don’t even know they have it.⁹

Since your diagnosis, what were you most surprised to learn about the impact of the disease?
As a Black man, I felt especially surprised to learn that certain ethnic groups are considered high-risk. The Black community is disproportionately impacted by type 2 diabetes and the risks associated with it. ^5,6 Black Americans are more than three times as likely as White Americans to have kidney failure¹⁰ and six times more likely than White Americans to get kidney failure from their high blood pressure.¹¹ It’s scary stuff.

As someone living with type 2 diabetes, are there other long-term effects you have discussed with your doctor?
Yes. I’ve learned that, if not managed over time, high blood sugar can cause harm to your heart and kidneys.¹² The longer you have type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease, the more likely you are to have kidney damage.¹³ It’s all connected, but there are ways to lower the risks and by educating yourself, and talking to your doctor, you’ve already taken the first step!

To anyone who has type 2 diabetes or knows someone who does, what would you tell them?
Get proactive and GET REAL! Talk to a healthcare professional to learn the risks for yourself and share them with your family or community—someone might be pre-diabetic or going through the same things. Living with type 2 diabetes and managing it successfully is a daily commitment that’s worth it. I always say, I’d rather live with this disease than die from it. It’s up to each of us to understand type 2 diabetes and associated risks, get the information we need and talk to our family members.
If you or someone you know is living with or at risk of type 2 diabetes, it’s time to get real about the link between type 2 diabetes, CKD and CVD. Talk to your healthcare professional about ways to manage your risks, including testing and treating early, managing your blood pressure and understanding genetic factors.
To learn more about type 2 diabetes, the increased risk of CKD and CVD, or to help you get real about your diabetes, visit www.GetRealAboutDiabetes.com.

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References:
1. Cleveland Clinic. Type 2 Diabetes. Accessed October 8, 2024.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21501-type-2-diabetes.
2. American Diabetes Association. Cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Accessed September 18, 2024. https://diabetes.org/about-diabetes/complications/cardiovascular-disease.
3. de Boer IH, Rue TC, Hall YN, et al. Temporal trends in the prevalence of diabetic kidney disease in the United States. JAMA. 2011;305:2532-2539.
4. Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) Diabetes Work Group. KDIGO 2020 clinical practice guideline for diabetes management in chronic kidney disease. Kidney Int. 2020;98:S1–S115. Published May 15, 2020. Accessed June 24, 2024.
5. Saab KR., Kendrick J, Yracheta JM, Lanaspa M A, Pollard M, Johnson R J. New insights on the risk for cardiovascular disease in African Americans: the role of added sugars. J Am Soc Nephrol.,2015;26(2):247–257. DOI:10.1681/ASN.2014040393
6. Osayande A. Assessing the relationship between racism in medicine, medical mistrust and cardiovascular disease among Black American adults. (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 4355. https://doi.org/10.18297/etd/4355
7. American Heart Association. Target: type 2 diabetes. Accessed September 18, 2024. https://www.heart.org/en/professional/quality-improvement/target-type-2-diabetes/.
8. Feng XS, Farej R, Dean BB, et al. CKD prevalence among patients with and without type 2 diabetes: regional differences in the United States. Kidney Med. 2021;4(1):100385.doi:10.1016/j.xkme.2021.09.003
9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic kidney disease in the United States, 2023.Accessed October 4, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/kidney-disease/php/data-research/index.html.
10. National Kidney Foundation. Race, ethnicity, & kidney disease. Published January 7, 2016. https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/minorities-KD#:~:text=Black%20or%20African%20Americans%20are%20more%20than%203.
11. American Kidney Fund (AKF). Race/ethnicity – kidney disease risk factors. Published October 29, 2021. www.kidneyfund.org. https://www.kidneyfund.org/all-about-kidneys/risk-factors/raceethnicity-kidney-disease-risk-factors.
12. National Kidney Foundation. Diabetes and kidney disease (stages 1-4). Accessed July 2, 2024. https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/Diabetes-and-Kidney-Disease-Stages1-4
13. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Diabetic kidney disease. Accessed June 24, 2024. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health- information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/diabetic-kidney- disease#:~:text=The%20A1C%20goal%20for%20many,check%20your%20blood%20glucose%20levels.

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The American Cancer Society says prostate cancer begins when cells in the prostate gland start to grow out of control. The prostate is a gland found only in males. It makes some of the fluid that is part of semen. When the cancer has not spread outside of the prostate, it is localized. When it has spread to lymph nodes and surrounding areas, it is categorized as regional, and if it has reached the lungs, bones, or liver, it is a distant stage.

It is the second leading cause of death among American men. However, African American men and Caribbean men of African descent have higher risks. Men in our community are 1.7 more likely to develop prostate cancer and also 2.1 times more likely to die from it. And like many other cancers that impact us, there is a higher chance that they might be diagnosed with an advanced stage of the disease.

Dexter King received his diagnosis at a younger age than most men. 60% of men are diagnosed at 65 or older. Even when Black men are diagnosed early, however, they may not receive treatment, a recent study reported. Researchers analyzed more than 300,000 patients with localized prostate cancer and found that Black men were 27% less likely to receive treatment (radical prostatectomy, external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy, or cryotherapy) than white patients.

It is imperative that we encourage the men in our lives to get screened for prostate cancer annually. The Prostate-Specific Antigen, or PSA, is a protein produced by normal and malignant prostate gland cells. The PSA test measures the level of PSA in the blood, and the level will be elevated in men with prostate cancer.

While the screening age is 50, Black men should begin getting screened at 45, especially if they have a father or brother who was diagnosed with the disease before age 65. If he has had more than one first-degree relative diagnosed, then screening should begin at 40.

Possible symptoms of prostate cancer include:

• Blood in the urine or semen.
• Back pain, pelvis pain, or hip pain.
• Difficulty getting or keeping an erection.
• Unexplained weight loss.

For more information on prostate cancer risks, diagnosis, and treatment, check out the following:

Prostate Cancer in the Black Community

50 Questions to Ask Your Doctor If You Have a Family Has History of Prostate Cancer

As we mourn the loss of Dexter Scott King, let’s also take this as an opportunity to encourage Black men to take their health seriously.

The post Dexter Scott King Died of Prostate Cancer (Why it Disproportionately Impacts Black Men) appeared first on Black Health Matters.

This study looked at the habits of those 18 and younger. It analyzed 90 studies involving more than 600,000 participants. Regarding girls, 1 in 10 didn’t just use a nonprescription weight loss remedy in their lifetime; they’ve used them in the past year.

Why is this dangerous? Here’s the issue: use of diet pills and other weight loss medicines can result in other health issues. Experts warn that in the long term, unhealthy weight control behaviors, including weight loss products without a doctor’s prescription, can contribute to increased body weight. Using these products can also put youth at risk for developing eating disorders within just a few years. According to StatNews, studies have also found that the use of the products is associated with low self-esteem, depression, and substance use. And young people have died from using these solutions.

“The incidence of eating disorders has increased pretty dramatically after the pandemic. We’ve seen the numbers skyrocket,” Dr. Paula Cody, medical director of adolescent medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, told CNN. “So I think that the concern I had before was not a small matter then — I’m even more concerned now.”

According to an article written on the subject. You are probably thinking eating disorders are not an issue in our community, but we are not immune. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), eating disorders “affect people from all demographics of all ethnicities at similar rates. People of color — especially African Americans — are significantly less likely to receive help for their eating issues.”

Rachel Goode, an assistant professor in the School of Social Work at the University of North Carolina Nutrition Research Institute and an adjunct assistant professor in the Center for Eating Disorder Excellence, says looking at eating disorders in our community is complex. And what you should know is that eating disorders from our community are often associated with the strong Black women syndrome.

The good news is that states are making moves to regulate the sale of the supplements. New York, for example, New York State has banned over-the-counter diet pills. Lawmakers have also introduced legislation to regulate them in California, Maryland, Massachusetts, Missouri, and New Jersey.

What do you need to do? Find out if your teens, especially your daughters, know  about “budget Ozempic.” Share the dangers. If you suspect they have body image issues, check out resources like About Face and The National Alliance for Eating Disorders.

The post Budget Ozempic: Talk to Your Teens About This Dangerous Trend appeared first on Black Health Matters.

While seeking therapy is met with skepticism by some members of our community, it is time to reconsider our opinions about it, especially because it can be an essential element in helping Black boys and men to feel worthy and achieve wholeness. Dr. Smith says, “Therapy is a safe place to overhear the inner conversations you have with yourself every day.”

Vance says his therapist asked him, “Are you willing to sit in the mud until the water becomes clear?” In other words, the work Black men must do to heal will neither be quick nor pretty, but the clarity they get will be worth it.

To learn more, check out Courtney B. Vance and Dr. Smith in conversation with Tony Cornelius at the session, The Invisible Ache: Black Men Identifying Their Pain and Reclaiming Their Power, at our Fall Summit in Los Angeles.

Courtney B. Vance and Dr. Smith’s book, The Invisible Ache: Black Men Identifying Their Pain and Reclaiming Their Power is out now. 

The post Courtney B. Vance Gets Real About Black Men’s Mental Health appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The post Celebrating Black Celebrities Who Overcame Prostate Cancer appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Genesis of “Girl Dinners”

https://www.tiktok.com/@elevateyourboutique/video/7256963145535622443

Originally, the “girl dinner” trend served as a tongue-in-cheek response to societal expectations. Users began posting videos of their simple, sometimes unappealing dinners with captions emphasizing that the meal was, indeed, their dinner. This trend offered a candid view into real-life dinners, free from the pressure of perfection or the need to curate a social media-friendly image. It was a reminder that not every meal is a gourmet feast and that’s perfectly okay.

Health Concerns?

This “girl dinner” trend, characterized primarily by its showcasing of sometimes minimalistic meals, has stirred conversations on its potential health implications. While the trend is a counter-reaction to the typically aesthetic and often overly curated meals on social media, there are concerns regarding its nutritional adequacy. Some of the meals presented under this trend are usually not balanced, lacking in the essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that are crucial for overall health.

Nutritionists and health professionals emphasize the importance of a well-rounded diet, which includes a balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and a variety of fruits and vegetables. The sporadic “girl dinner” meal, which may consist of just a handful of chips or a slice of cheese, is far from this ideal. Over time, consistently consuming such limited meals can lead to nutritional deficiencies, impacting various bodily functions and potentially leading to more significant health issues.