Health and Wellness
Pregnant black women are being killed at an alarming rate
Courtesy of Chandra Meeks
On January 22, 2022, Chandra Meeks, a mother and nurse living in Belleville, Illinois, posted a mysterious video to her TikTok account. “Sometimes I wonder if I’m doing the right thing by talking about what happened to my sister,” Meeks told the camera as she spoke from the passenger seat of her automotive, the sun shining on her. “But I just don’t understand why no one has been charged with her murder; why was her alleged killer allowed to taunt me?” she asked. “The loss of my sister and her unborn child has affected many people.”
Perinatal homicide, the killing of a pregnant woman or a girl who has just given birth, is an additional element of the maternal mortality crisis plaguing the United States. Not only are pregnant women 35% more prone to die than non-pregnant women, but additionally Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health in addition they found that homicide is the leading explanation for death amongst pregnant women. These murders are often the results of domestic violence and the perpetrators are often their partners. Not only are black women more prone to be murdered through the perinatal period than every other group, but these cases typically go unsolved.
Meeks’ younger sister, Catherine “Cathy” Jackson, was shot to death in her East St. home. Louis January 9, 2018 She was eight months pregnant. Just a couple of weeks before the attack, the mother had moved downtown to an apartment on North Ninth Street. Before moving, Jackson was experiencing homelessness and living in a shelter. So when an area organization helped her move right into a latest apartment, she was looking forward to a fresh start.
Meeks was completely happy for her sister’s latest starting, but anxious that the neighborhood had a foul repute. “I said, ‘Cathy, are you going to be okay there?’ It’s dangerous,’” Meeks recalls him telling her. “I don’t want you there.” And she just kept saying that she was good, that she can be good.
On the night of the murder, Meeks was scheduled to go to her sister at her latest home. “She called me and asked me to come pick up my youngest nephew, *James,” he says. “And I agreed because little kids can be overwhelming – everyone needs a break.” As the oldest sibling, Meeks spent plenty of time along with her sister. She cooked family dinners and hosted Jackson and 4 other children on a regular basis. She was like a second mother to all of them.
“But when I started driving to pick up James, there was too much fog on the highway and I couldn’t see anything. So I had to turn around and go home – when I tried to call her, she didn’t answer,” Meeks said. Two days later, she received a call from her mother explaining that Jackson’s owner had found her sister shot to death. Her older children weren’t home when the shooting occurred. James was found at the scene; he had been at home for several days together with his mother’s pregnant, lifeless body. Meeks claims that the bullet to the face disfigured her a lot that she opted for a closed casket funeral.
Firearms are used 63% all perinatal cases. Pregnant women are likely to be more vulnerable to the sort of violence in states with more lenient gun laws and where women have less access to abortion and reproductive services. However, Illinois is understood for strict gun laws and robust reproductive take care of women in comparison with other states.
But race also plays a job. “Black women are disproportionately affected by perinatal homicide, which is likely the result of a myriad of factors rooted in structural racism,” says Grace Keegan, M.D. candidate at the University of Chicago and lead writer of the study published within the journal Black Women ” .
It’s not only black women who struggle with this higher rates of domestic violence across the countrywe are less prone to report it due to the stigma related to it, and decide to remain silent as a substitute. It is essential to do not forget that violence shouldn’t be at all times physical; it’s any behavior through which an individual exercises power and control over one other person.
Meeks describes her sister’s former partner and James’ father as abusive, claiming he killed her sister. “When I first caught James, all he said was, ‘Daddy, shoot Mommy.'” After the murder, Jackson’s ex-wife stayed wanted for questioning. Ultimately, nonetheless, he was released. While Meeks has never had a very good feeling about her sister’s ex, she will’t confirm that her sister was in an abusive relationship. But when she gained custody of James, she claims his father began harassing her online and writing letters that he left in her mailbox to intimidate her because he wanted custody of James.
“In these types of cases, there are usually similar patterns of domestic violence by the former victim,” says Amara Coffer, host of the podcast, a real crime podcast that highlights the stories of Black women who’ve gone missing or been murdered. She described greater than 200 cases like Jackson’s and dozens of perinatal cases. “Signs of violence are not always blatant,” he notes. “The victim may never have been physically hit, but there are certain things that family and friends will say later, like, ‘You know, we didn’t really like him.'”
According to Meeks, her sister hid her pregnancy and can have had doubts about her next steps. But when Jackson’s ex came upon she was pregnant, he was upset and accused her of hiding the pregnancy to cover that the unborn child was not his. Coffer says she’s noticed a pattern within the strain an unplanned pregnancy can placed on a relationship, and that it may possibly be a turning point. “Abusive messages, controlling behavior and stalking, especially if she tried to leave or he accused her of cheating, are usually clear signs of abuse, especially when the victim ends in death,” she says.
Unfortunately, until a radical investigation is conducted, it’s inconceivable to ensure who brutally murdered Jackson and her unborn child. Now her sister is keeping her name alive by posting memories of her on social media. She gained custody of James, and although Meeks raises the boy as his own, she makes sure he remembers his mother. One of Meeks’ last TikTok posts was about her sister’s birthday. “Happy birthday to Cathy,” James sang within the clip. – Do you miss Cathy? Meeks asked James. “Ah,” he replied with a smile.
Health and Wellness
He came to the US with $100; He is now a mental health expert
Meet Honor Sithole, a renowned Black mental health advocate and licensed skilled caregiver who immigrated to the United States in 2000 with just $100 in her pocket. He has now released a compelling recent book titled , chronicling his extraordinary journey as a Zimbabwean immigrant to becoming certainly one of the most influential mental health professionals in America.
Sithole, founder and CEO of Inside Fitness 360 Professional Counseling and Life Coaching, has been in his own practice for over 10 years and has transformed the lives of over 30,000 people through his counseling sessions, becoming a leading voice for mental health. His practice was recognized in 2018 as a Face of Mental Health for its progressive approach and exceptional impact, and in 2022 he was a podcast guest.
weaves Sithole’s inspiring personal narrative with practical strategies for private transformation. The book offers readers a comprehensive plan for achievement, specializing in self-knowledge, harmony of mind, body and spirit, and authentic living.
“My journey from coming to America with just $100 to building a successful practice and being recognized by the Texas State Senate has taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance and personal growth,” says Sithole. “By doing so, I share these insights to help others overcome their own challenges and achieve their dreams.”
Sithole’s experience has earned him quite a few accolades, including:
• 2023 Immigrant Career Excellence Award
• Named certainly one of the Top 100 Black Therapists by the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (2022)
• Texas Senate Proclamation on Supporting Men’s Mental Health
• Award named after Richard E. Hopkins “Torch” 2020
Company impact and leadership development
goes beyond personal development to include key workplace well-being strategies. Sithole’s corporate training programs have helped organizations create a psychologically protected environment, leading to:
• Greater worker satisfaction and retention
• Better communication and cooperation inside the team
• Reduced stress and burnout in the workplace
• Developing emotionally intelligent leadership
As a trusted advisor to government entities, skilled athletes and corporations, Sithole brings over 20 years of leadership experience to his work supporting mental health. His approach to corporate well-being and leadership development has revolutionized the way organizations look after employees’ mental health, creating psychologically protected workplaces where teams can thrive.
The book is available at Amazon.
Health and Wellness
Alexis Donald becomes the first physician and published author in her family
Bow. Alexis Donald, pioneering African American physician and advocate for empowering young minds, is happy to announce the release of her long-awaited kid’s book, Based on her own extraordinary journey, this fascinating story encourages children to dream big, consider in themselves and fearlessly pursue their aspirations.
As the first doctor in her family, Dr. Alexis has all the time been driven by a passion for medicine and a desire to make a difference in the world. Her inspiring story begins with childhood dreams and takes readers on a heartfelt journey of determination, resilience and triumph.
is a beautifully illustrated book that captures the essence of the true story of Dr. Alexis Donald. With relatable characters and a gripping story, young readers will probably be inspired to pursue their dreams, irrespective of how big or audacious they could seem.
This charming book not only highlights Dr. Donald’s personal achievements, but additionally showcases her exceptional academic achievements. As the valedictorian of her highschool, she became the first person in the history of her highschool to be awarded the prestigious Bill Gates Millennium Scholarship. Undaunted by the challenges, she continued her educational journey, completing her undergraduate studies at Jackson State University and Meharry Medical College, earning her master’s degree and medical degrees.
Dr. Donald, now a successful family medicine physician, has a mission to encourage the next generations to dream big, consider in themselves and fearlessly pursue their passions. He hopes to instill in young minds the importance of perseverance, self-belief and the limitless opportunities that await them.
Thanks to its strong message and fascinating illustrations, it’ll immediately change into a favourite book of kids, parents and teachers alike. This uplifting story is a reminder that dreams can come true through dedication, exertions and unwavering determination.
Dr. Donald invites readers of all ages to affix her in celebrating the release of her kid’s book. This extraordinary book is now available on the market in leading bookstores and online stores.
For more details about Dr. Alexis, her inspiring journey, and her mission to empower young minds, visit her website AuthorAlexisMD.com
Her book is offered at Amazon.
Health and Wellness
Alycia Baumgardner About faith, femininity and breaking barriers in boxing – Essence
Photo credit: Melina Pizano / Matchroom
Alycia Baumgardner has at all times had a fighting spirit. Growing up in a family of fighters, she didn’t just learn methods to box – she embodied it. Her journey to becoming the undisputed super featherweight champion began long before she ever placed on gloves. In fact, the boxing champion was only 4 years old when she first wrestled, and then eight when her dad asked the query that defined her future: “Do you want to box?” Her answer was easy and confident: “Yes, I will box.” Looking back, she recalls the innocence of the choice and notes, “I didn’t even know what I was getting into, but it just felt right.”
Living in Fremont, Ohio, Baumgardner’s introduction to boxing didn’t come from watching legends or studying tapes. Instead, her skills were influenced by family influences and a gaggle of coaches who saw her potential and helped her refine her craft. “I didn’t grow up watching boxing much,” she said. “Because of my athleticism and the teachers I worked with, I was able to really shape my style.” Her combat is flexible – she will be able to fight, move and outsmart her opponents with technical finesse. But what really drove her forward was her belief that “one day they would have to respect that.”
This respect intensified as the favored athlete quickly rose through the ranks, winning the WBC, IBO, WBO, IBF and The Ring titles by 2022. Her technical and relentless style made her a fearsome opponent. But outside the ring, she also accepted something that is commonly marginalized in boxing: her femininity. As ESSENCE says, “It’s important to accept it because that’s who I am as a woman.” For her, it’s about balance – the mix of beauty and beast. “You can be a beautiful woman and fight at the same time,” she says, capturing the duality that makes her a novel figure in women’s boxing.
Outside the ring, Baumgardner’s interests are as diverse as her boxing style. He finds time to maintain a diary. It’s a habit he maintains at the very least twice every week and documents the ups and downs of his life. “It’s just updates on my life,” he explains, seeing it as a method to reflect and grow. She can be a passionate advocate for well-being, each spiritual and physical, and is proud to offer back to her community. From teaching self-defense to women in Detroit to handing out turkeys through the holidays, she strives to be a positive influence on those round her. Her recent visits to HBCUs to encourage young fans are a testament to this commitment as she encourages them to develop into confident and pursue their dreams.
For the talented boxer, her place in athletics goes beyond titles and belts. “Being the face of women’s boxing is a blessing,” she says. “Because of my story and what I can offer outside the ring, I can reach so many people. It’s more than just a sport.” He sees his role as a legacy creator, known not only for his victories, but also for the words he shares and the impact he makes. “People won’t remember me just because of the stripes,” he insists. “They’ll remember what I said, what I told that young girl who dreamed of being a champion one day.”
However, her journey is just not without obstacles. As a black woman in a male-dominated sport, the boxing star faced challenges, often feeling like she stood out in a world where she didn’t see many individuals who looked like her. Reflecting on her experiences, she says, “Being a young black girl with muscles wasn’t common. But I at all times believed that someday people would respect my work ethic. This belief continues to drive her as she tries to balance the demands of her sport with the pressures of being an influential figure.
Last September, Alycia faced an unexpected defeat during her highly anticipated match against Delfine Persoon at Trilith Studios in Atlanta. The fight was fierce and she was determined to defend her undisputed super featherweight title. In the fourth round, a cut to Persoon’s right eye – attributable to an accidental clash of heads – forced the ringside doctor to declare the fight, resulting in a no-contest ruling. Although the choice was unexpected, she viewed it as a brief setback fairly than a setback, exuding the identical resilience that has defined her profession.
Looking ahead, the 30-12 months-old’s goals remain clear. She is committed to her craft, her community, and inspiring the following generation of warriors. And although the challenges ahead could also be difficult, she is grounded in her faith and her purpose. “Prayer is important,” he says. “I always believed I was destined to become something great, and through obstacles I learned to overcome them.”
Baumgardner’s journey is characterised by fortitude, grace and undeniable strength – a real testament to her belief that, in boxing and in life, every defeat is a chance to rise again. As she continues to coach, mentor others and push the boundaries of the game, she shows that her fight goes far beyond titles; it’s about redefining life’s possibilities.
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