Black History Month
Black History Month is a time to celebrate the great achievements and commemorate important Black heroes and events throughout our history. It’s also a time to reflect and raise awareness of racial and ethnic disparities across all the health care sectors.
There’s always more work to be done, and the Global Healthy Living Foundation is committed to continue this work through honoring, amplifying, and uplifting the experiences of those living with chronic illness in the Black community.
In honor of Black History Month, we’ve dedicated this space to celebrating patients from the Black community who are helping to make a difference, bridging the gap and shining a light on health care disparities. Please take time to read through — and share their experiences this month and beyond.
Patient Profiles
Black History, Patient Voices: Advocating for Equity Beyond February
We turned to our patient leaders in the Black community for their insights on representation and health equity. We encourage you to read their words and reflect on how we can apply their knowledge to create a more equitable future for all patients.
From Childhood Struggles to Advocacy: Alisha Bridges’ Journey with Psoriasis
Alisha Bridges’ journey with psoriasis, from childhood struggles and isolation to becoming an advocate for herself and others.
A Tribute #ForTinu: Honoring Her Legacy
“Tinu was the best of us, always amplifying voices from the chronic illness community and sharing resources, advice, or financial assistance.”
Tinu’s story highlights the urgent need for better support and protections for patients.
Navigating IBD and LGBTQ+ Identity: Krys Baxter’s Diagnosis Journey
“I remember walking out and being like, oh my gosh, I have an answer. I know what’s wrong with me. Not to hurt, not to have to rush to the bathroom, or constantly have puke bags with me all the time.”
Reevaluating Goals with Your Doctor
Nurse and patient advocate Catina Morrison shares tips for how to talk with your doctor about assessing goals and changing course when needed.
Wash Day and Chronic Illness
Patient advocate Tiffany Peterson takes us through her journey of Wash Day — a ritual that holds deep significance in the lives of many Black women — and tips for making it easier with chronic illness.
Priorities, Perspective, and Projectile Vomiting at the Pharmacy
Evette Waters recounts a humorous yet humbling pharmacy trip that turned into a lesson in self-care for someone living with chronic illness. This article highlights the importance of honoring physical limits, adjusting priorities, and using mobility aids to prevent overexertion, emphasizing the value of listening to your body and embracing accommodations for better well-being.
Michelle Walters-Johnson “Don’t Let Alopecia Be the Thing to Beat You – You Beat It”
Michelle Walters-Johnson, 51, a mother and the director of graduate admissions at the University of Baltimore. But since 2018, she’s also been the Lady Behind the Wig, committed to educating, empowering, and supporting other women who, like her, have alopecia.
Tien’s story of living with osteoporosis
Through her experience with multiple osteoporosis-related fractures, she sheds light on the condition’s early effects and how it impacts daily living in hopes to educate and inform others about the risks associated with multiple fractures and ways to help prevent them and address osteoporosis in daily life.
Nika’s Journey with IgG4-RD: A Story of Resilience and Self-Advocacy
After a 17-year diagnosis journey to IgG4-Related Disease, Nika is sharing her story and lessons to help others become proactive patients.
Joshua’s Ulcerative Colitis Story: “I Didn’t Have a Lot of Exposure to What This Condition Was”
Read about one Black patient’s journey with ulcerative colitis, and how it took three years to finally receive a diagnosis.
Christele Felix’s Lupus Story: “This Is the Best I’ve Ever Been”
Christele Felix rises to the challenges of living with lupus and inspires others through her advocacy work with LupusChat.
Raven Miller’s Rheumatoid Arthritis Story: “I Found My Motivation”
Discover how Raven Miller, a single mom and creator of Raven Takes RA, has reached a place of balance, optimism, and strength.
Jaime Sanders’ Migraine Story: Blogging to Empower Others
Learn how Jaime Sanders, “The Migraine Diva,” uses blogging as a way to share her journey and empower others toward advocacy and self care.
Shantana’s RA Story: “The Color of My Skin Shouldn’t Determine the Quality of Treatment I Get”
Shantana shares what it was liked to get diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis as a Black woman, and why she wants others to know her story.
Eula Moore’s Story: Veterans Coping with Migraine
A veteran from Blue Island, Illinois, shares how she started having migraine attacks during her time in the Gulf War.
Kevin’s Ankylosing Spondylitis Story: “My Life’s Not Over, It’s Changed”
Kevin shares his experience of getting diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis after a decade of symptoms.
The Stigma of Talking About Pain: A Black Man’s Perspective
Qasim reflects on his journey on living in pain with chronic migraine and challenging and addressing the stigma of talking about pain, specifically for Black men.
Roz’s Ankylosing Spondylitis: My BackStory
Even with a strong family history of ankylosing spondylitis, Roz was misdiagnosed for decades.
18 Black Chronic Illness Patient Advocates Fighting to Change Equity in Health Care
These GHLF members with a wide range of chronic illnesses are sharing their stories and speaking up for fellow patients in marginalized communities who too often feel voiceless.
This Pfizer Scientist Helped Develop the COVID-19 Vaccine
When we think back to the start of the pandemic, we remember all the ways — big and small — our lives completely changed.
Reflections on Father’s Day and Parenting with Migraine
Qasim shares his lessons and challenges that he’s learned living with migraine and parenting (and grandparenting).
Webinar and Health Equity Table Talk Discussions
Wash Day & Chronic Illness Panel in honor of World Afro Day
This panel brings together patient advocates and hair stylists to navigate the intersection of chronic illness, culture, and identity through the sacred ritual of Wash Day. Chat in real-time with panelists and other attendees, share your own experiences, ask questions, and gain valuable tips on making your Wash Day a more empowering and manageable experience.
The Power of Patient Stories: Meet Four Advocates
This program features advocates sharing their personal journeys—how they began sharing their stories, the invaluable support of community, the challenges they faced, and their successes along the way. You’ll also hear their advice for others looking to make a difference.
Melanin Health Table Talks | Representation in Healthcare Settings: A Convo with Melanated Health Care
At this table talk, we are joined by Dr. Lecresha Sewell, DNP, APN, and Dr. Whitney Graves, DNP, APRN of Melanated Healthcare.
Melanin Health Table Talks| Wellness Evolution: Natural Hair and What It Really Means
During this virtual event, we will be discussing:
The insights and connection between hair and mental health
The cultural and societal impact of hair for BIPOC communities, especially for Black communities
The intersection of chronic illness and hair health
The importance of breaking down stereotypes and fostering self-love
Itching to Know About Psoriasis? A HEROES Webinar about Hair, Skin and Scalp Health
Learn about psoriasis, its symptoms, and how to create a supportive, stigma-free environment. Gain the skills to have empathetic conversations and help guide your clients toward proper treatment.
Melanin Health Table Talks Instagram Live Discussion: Black Men Have Migraine Awareness Month
Join us for this special episode of Melanin Health Table Talks where we had a candid discussion with GHLF migraine patient advocates, Qasim Amin and Kevin on their experiences living with a chronic illness as Black men and the different obstacles and barriers they’ve had to navigate.
Health Care Disparities
Community and the Chronic Version of Me
Evette Waters’ journey of managing endometriosis while maintaining relationships and navigating life’s challenges. It offers tips for processing emotions, setting boundaries, and finding support through community and GHLF resources.
Healing Together: The Role of BIPOC-Only Chronic Illness Spaces
What began as an idea is now ChronicHue, a global online community supporting BIPOC individuals with rheumatic and chronic illnesses. ChronicHue addresses the unique challenges BIPOC patients face in traditional support spaces. With their work being highlighted at ACR, patients Sarah and JP, behind the creation of ChronicHue, aim to raise awareness of the value of dedicated spaces for BIPOC patients and inspire similar initiatives in other communities worldwide.
How Mental Health Support Changed My Journey
Learn how a supportive community helped Evette Waters, living with endometriosis, embrace mental health care and navigate the challenges of chronic illness. It highlights the importance of breaking stigmas, seeking treatment, and finding strength in shared experiences to build a new sense of identity and improve overall well-being.
Studies Suggests Systemic Racism Might Contribute to Inflammation
Researchers examine yet another negative health consequence of discrimination: increased inflammation and a higher risk for inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
ChronicHue: Bringing Mental Health Support to the BIPOC Chronic Illness Community
Let’s talk about the mental well-being of all patients and recognize that more needs to be done to address historical traumas, societal stigmas, and systemic inequalities faced by the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) patient community.
#CreakyChats: Honoring Black History Month
Discover valuable insights from our #CreakyChats community on the challenges faced by members of the Black chronic illness community.
Are People Dying from COVID-19 Because They are Black in America? An African American Cancer Survivor Speaks Out
If we are truly “all in this together” — as all the COVID-19 public health messaging would have you believe — we need to identify, examine, and solve this problem together.
Black Lives Matter – Why We Must Keep Showing Up for Racial Justice and Equality
We aimed to let our Black communities know that we see you, hear you, and support you.
Racism Is a Pandemic – A Statement from the Global Healthy Living Foundation
Now — more than ever — we must speak out against the institutional oppression and systemic disregard for black and brown lives in America.
Study: Black Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Have More Inflammation and Comorbid Conditions
An improved risk stratification and vigilance for early diagnosis and treatment of AS particularly in African American patients in needed.
Webinar: Racism in Health Care Why Should You Care
Learn more about the profound impact of racism in health care on people from the BIPOC community and what must be done to fix it.
Uneven Opioid Prescription Rates May Leave Black Patients Undertreated and White Patients Overtreated
New study found that white patients are more likely to be prescribed stronger doses of opioids than Black patients within the same health care systems.
BIPOC Patient Voices Living With Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
Managing a condition like psoriasis (PsO) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA) can be challenging – and perhaps even more challenging for Black, Indigenous, People or Color (BIPOC).
Navigating Black Hair and Scalp Psoriasis
Treatments for scalp psoriasis often don’t account for the textures, hair care regimens, and styling techniques common among Black people. Here, solutions for advocating for yourself and finding relief.
Testing Covid-Positive: My Experience as a Black, Disabled, Immunocompromised Woman
I hope my story humanizes the experience of having COVID for people. We are people you know and love and we might die because you won’t wear a mask.
Podcast Episodes
From Athlete to Advocate: Racquel’s Lupus Story
After qualifying for the Olympic trials twice, Racquel’s diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus in 2004 presented challenges that got in the way of her athletic lifestyle. Join Racquel as she describes recognizing symptoms, feeling lost and scared at diagnosis, working with her doctor to care for her lupus, and becoming an advocate for herself and others living with lupus.
Dr. Omole: Combating Racial Disparities in Health Care
In this episode, breast surgical oncologist and president of the Black Physicians’ Association of Ontario, Dr. Mojola Omole, joins us to talk about her advocacy work. She shares how she aims to increase the percentage of Black physicians in Ontario, reduce systemic barriers and racism in medicine, and support Black mental health.
Addressing Obesity: Kevin’s Story of Change and Advocacy
In this episode, we’re joined by Kevin Stephens, a weight loss surgery patient, and an active advocate with the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC). We learn about Kevin’s struggle with his weight since childhood and the many health issues that come along with obesity. We talk a lot about the importance of health insurance coverage and reducing barriers to accessing treatment.
Championing Change: A Conversation with Migraine Advocates at Headache on the Hill
In this special episode of Talking Head Pain, recorded live at Headache on the Hill, Sarah brings together a diverse group of patient advocates to share their personal stories and reasons for advocating for migraine awareness and better treatment access.
Health Equity and Black History Month
The Health Advocates are joined by Sarah Shaw, Senior Manager of BIPOC Community Outreach at GHLF, for a discussion on the disproportionate burden of chronic disease in the Black community, barriers to health care, racism in health care, and ultimately, how we can come together as a community and advocate year-round.
The Balancing Act of Chronic Illness with Shonta Chambers
We’re joined by Shonta Chambers, who serves as the Executive Vice President-Health Equity Initiatives and Community Engagement for the Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF). Shonta explains how social drivers impact one’s health, including things such as housing and economic status. She also shares her personal journey of being a caregiver.
Thriving While Aching – Filling the Gaps, From Challenge to Change: Aisha’s Story of Resilience
In this episode, we dive into the unique story of Aisha, a young Black woman who stepped into the role of caregiver when her mother was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia.
Wellness Evolution – “It’s Okay to Not be Okay: A Journey to Mental Illness Advocacy” with Pamela Price
Pamela a sheds light on the challenges faced by health care professionals from marginalized communities and the impact of their work in creating a more equitable health care system.
Relatable Rheumatology – Blood Work in Rheumatoid Arthritis – Deen Allen Jr.
We are joined by Dr. Liana Fraenkel, attending rheumatologist at the Berkshire Medical Center and Adjunct Professor of Medicine at Yale University, and Deen Allen, a PhD in cosmetic chemistry and patient advocate who lives with RA
Relatable Rheumatology – Exploring Chronic Pain – with guests Dr. Beth Darnall and Tien Sydnor-Campbell
“Why does chronic pain affect the whole person?”
In our third episode of Relatable Rheumatology: From Stories to Studies, we explore chronic pain and our expanding understanding of its impact on both body and mind.
Let’s Get Personal – Dr. Wright
Wright talks to us about the relationship between a rheumatologist and a patient, and how good communication is key to finding the right RA treatment.
The Asthma Podcast, Carly’s Story
Carly offers her unique perspective and valuable insight as a person living with lupus and asthma.
The Health Advocates – Diagnosis, Symptoms and Treatment: Understanding Polymyalgia Rheumatica with Dr. Grace Wright
“I think the most important thing always in rheumatology is to remember the [patient] story is the most critical,” says Dr. Grace Wright.
The Health Advocates – The Road to an IgG4-RD Diagnosis: How Nika Beamon Advocated
Nika shares her 17-year journey to an IgG4-RD diagnosis, including how she advocated for herself. She offers valuable tips for fellow chronic illness patients, highlighting the unique considerations people with autoimmune diseases have in everyday life.
The Health Advocates- Advocating this Black History Month
The hosts discuss the importance of sharing Black patient stories this Black History Month while shining a light on health disparities.
Thriving While Aching, Beverly’s Story
Meet Beverly Rogers, a woman who grew up during the civil rights movement. She was diagnosed with breast cancer, and shares how she used her experience to advocate for health care.
Wellness Evolution – It’s Just Hair – Or Is It? Respecting Your Crown
Learn about the bias in natural hair discrimination, and hair stigmas when growing up in mixed race and BIPOC communities as well as the physical and mental connection that many of us have with our hair.
Gut Culture – Are There Any Black People with IBD
In this episode we hear from gastroenterologist Dr. Florence Odufalu, and why she treats patients in ethnically diverse and underserved communities.
Let’s Get Personal, Alexis’ Story
Alexis talks about the importance of coming to terms with your diagnosis, doing your own research, and being persistent in your RA treatment and care.
Accepting a Helping Paw, A Conversation with Candace Camper
Candace, the creator of an Instagram account that documents her migraine journey, talks about how her service dog, Clea, helps her manage migraine and seizures.
Jaime Sanders, the Migraine Diva
Hear why Jaime calls herself the Migraine Diva, and how it touches everything from her migraine advocacy to the need for self-care.
#BlackMenHaveMigraineToo
When you think of migraine many of us don’t think of or see Black men. Meet Qasim Amin Nathari, who takes us on his migraine journey while getting deep about the intersections of race, masculinity, and faith.
TikTok Migraine Doc
Sarah Shaw and her doctor Courtney White, MD, discuss the need to educate the medical profession on the many symptoms of migraine so they can better serve patients in the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities
The Psoriatic Arthritis Club, Diane’s Story
As a woman of color who grew up poor, Diane endured decades of inadequate treatment, misdiagnosis, and stigma.
Don’t Let Them Gaslight Your Health
Meet Catina Morrison, who is using her own experiences living with rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and endometriosis to teach others how to overcome stigma.
Becoming a Health Advocate Through Grief
Rashaunda Shaw became a health advocate when her mother and sister were both hospitalized and dying. Now, she’s turned her grief into purpose.
Black, Queer, and in Pain
Sarah Reneé, a patient advocate, shares her experiences of navigating migraine care as a person in various marginalized communities.
Navigating Health Care Systems: Overcoming Barriers to Vaccination
In this audio guide, Dr. Robert Popovian, Chief Science Policy Officer at GHLF, discusses the challenges surrounding vaccine access for vulnerable populations, including adults with chronic conditions. Dr. Popovian talks about common barriers to vaccination such as misinformation, financial obstacles, and health care disparities.