CEOMOM Fall 2020

November 2020

7 WAYS TO USE YOUR VOICE AFTER THE 2020 ELECTION

!

DR. PORCHIA JAMES

FINDING YOURSELF IN MOTHERHOOD WHEN IT FEELS TOO HARD

NATASHA HASTINGS

ON WHY DENTAL CARE IS FULL HEALTH CARE & INNOVATING ORAL SURGERY

OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST ON LIFE AFTER PREGNANCY

Our Health Issue MAKING OUR

HEALTH A PRIORITY

mixiavenue.com

CONTENTS 06 HEALTH & WELLNESS NUGGETS WHILE VIRTUALLY LEARNING Noni’s Nuggets are key points to incorporate into your family's virtual world.

10 WHO'S GONNA HIRE ME NOW? Holly Caplan gives women 50 and older resources and reinvention tactics to find a new job or start their own hustle.

16 MEET DR. GINA CHARLES Dr. Charles works to help increase breastfeeding rates among Black women.

34 HOW TO TALK TO KIDS ABOUT ONLINE MEANNESS Children and Screens helps parents understand cyberbullying.

22 MEET DR. PORCHIA CEOMOM | 3

COMPLETE HEALTH & WELLNESS Editor-in-Chief Vonna Matthews

Contributing Designer Photo Editor Cover Photography Contributing Photographer Contributing Photographer Contributing Photographer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer

Taly Melo Krystal Jackson Marcus Owens Photography Didomi Photography Ade Oshodi Nancy Valladolid Noni Robinson Jessica Peresta

Editorial Office

Little Elm, Texas 75068 +1-972-302-9150 | info@ceomommagazine.com CEOMOM Magazine is published by For Her Media Little Elm, Texas 75068 | +1-972-302-9150 www.ceomommagazine.com

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

MAKING OUR HEALTH A PRIORITY A lot has happened since our Summer 2020 issue. It seems that 2020 continues to be a year full of surprises with twists and turns. We continue to not know what will happen next. My grandmother used to say, "You never know from one minute to the next." That summarizes the sentiment of 2020. With all of the chaos and confusion of this year, making our health a priority has become even more paramount. From our mental to our emotional and physical health, we must consider our whole beings as we implement our self-care routines. We must be intentional and forward thinking as we work to maintain optimal health.

In our Fall 2020 issue, we interviewed several doctors who are on the front lines of helping us get and stay healthy. We interviewed Dr. Tiffany Woodus of Woodus Obstetrics & Gynecology, who is working to eliminate the health disparities among Black and brown women, and Dr. Bianca Busch, a Massachusetts based psychiatrist who works with children and families to manage depression and anxiety. We talked to moms who are defying the odds and showing that pregnancy does not eliminate a woman's physical capabilities. Natasha Hastings, Olympic Gold medalist, spoke to us about her initial fears of becoming a new mom. After having her beautiful son, Liam, and continuing a great relationship with her sponsors, Hastings is now preparing for the 2021 Olympics.

We also spoke with Victoria Thomas, founder of JOURNEYFIT. Thomas works with pregnant women, helping them to stay fit before, during and after pregnancy by equipping them with health related education, tips and resources.

Our cover mom, Dr. Porchia James, an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Specialist, shows the impact dental health has on the rest of our bodies.

We also talk about what work needs to be done to increase Black and brown dental professionals, and why it is so important to have medical professionals who can relate to the communities they serve.

We can't release an issue in November 2020 and not talk about the 2020 election that just passed. Although chaos in the White House continues to ensue, we have to congratulate Kamala Harris for becoming the first African-American and Indian-American woman to be elected VicePresident of the United States of America. One of the best parts of this celebration are the memes commenting on all of the broken glass on the ground. This is a victory for women, and we have to relish in a job well done. We're looking forward to the future, as soon as the present calms down. Whew!

Editor-in-Chief

Vonna Matthews

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NONI ROBINSON OF BLACK GIRLS EAT

HEALTH & WELLNESS NUGGETS WHILE VIRTUALLY LEARNING

Make sure they are fueling their bodies with good foods and are balancing their day with physical activity and play.

As millions of teachers and families will discover this fall, learning and teaching virtually is hard. For many students, it’s difficult to engage with classmates and participate in class. For many teachers, it’s difficult to help struggling students and form solid relationships through only video, chat and email. Exhausted parents-turned tutors, especially those who also work from home, may feel it’s unsustainable. Unfortunately, solutions are not readily at hand.

We must remain steadfast as a community, and source of support to the virtual learning process, as mental health and physical health are integral components to navigating this new normal in a healthy and productive way. Noni’s Nuggets are key points to incorporate into your family's virtual world.

While children may not be moving from one classroom to the next or to and from lunch and recess, a virtual or at home learning environment can still have many of the supports that a typical classroom or school has. Check in with how children are feeling physically throughout the day and pay attention to sedentary patterns.

Make sure they are fueling their bodies with good foods and are balancing their day with physical activity and play.

Break up the day with active brain breaks to recharge the body and brain. Get the wiggles out together with an online video or throw on some music and just allow your bodies to move. You can also integrate movement into lessons for active learning opportunities – squats for math, spelling with yoga, etc.

Pay attention to children’s posture throughout the day. When you notice slouching, especially when sitting on the floor, encourage children to get some height under their seat. You can do this with folded blankets, a pillow or fitness blocks. Doing so helps to lengthen the spine which can alleviate lower back pain and support healthier posture. Stretching and moving helps children to reset and realign!

Schedule “recess” in your day-to-day routine. Take a nature walk for fresh air or kick around a soccer ball and develop new skills. Use this time to break up the day and create a space for more unstructured play.

Start a pots and pans band, build a fort with sheets or use a pillow cushion raft to head off on a new adventure.

Make sure children are staying on a routine and carve out time for healthy meals and snacks. Use this time to discuss the mind-body connection and get children thinking about the power of food and how it fuels our bodies for the activities we love most.

Spend some time exploring food even further by getting kids in the kitchen and cooking together.

Encourage children and families to stay connected with virtual lunch or snack time with friends or family members to enjoy eating while socializing.

A few ideas for you which hit all of the categories ... easy, healthy, delicious and affordable.

1) Keep lunches and snacks balanced. Include protein with each instead of making carbs the focus. Protein will keep kids satisfied for longer and help them stay focused.

Protein can be meat or poultry but doesn't have to be ... eggs, nuts, beans and dairy foods like cheese and yogurt can work, too.

2) Plan out lunches for the week. Make a chart either on paper or on your computer. List out lunch ideas for each day and get input from your kids. Enlist their help in each step of the process from idea making to prep work the night before. They will have less to complain about and more to look forward to at lunchtime.

3) Make it basic, easy, and of course healthy. Include your children in most steps of the process as a learning tool.

Visit Noni Robinson at https://wearehealthyaf.com to assist with your menu planning needs during virtual learning and working.

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QUICK ENERGY BITES What we love about these easy to make and tasty treats is not only are they nutritious, but they are versatile. Mix and match your favorite ingredients from crunchy to smooth to chewy. The list is endless. Some of our favorite additions are craisins, nuts, and coconuts.

INGREDIENTS 1 cup semi-sweet mini chocolate chips ( Optional ) 1 ½ cup oats, gluten-free if necessary 3 tbs chia seeds or flax seeds 1 tbs maple syrup or honey ⅔ cup peanut butter or other nut/seed butter of preference

WE HELP YOU GET WHAT YOU NEED IN LIFE.

INSTRUCTIONS Measure ingredients. Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. Scoop teaspoon-size spoonfuls and roll into balls. Place onto a piece of parchment paper on a baking sheet.

Refrigerate to harden, then cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Provided by: Noni Robinson

CEOMOM | 8

Get the App

Who’s Gonna Hire Me Now? BY: HOLLY CAPLAN

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I hear this question from my clients all of the time. It is an honest question haloed by fear, uncertainty and panic. Who asks me this question the most?

Women over 50 years old.

When I was 35 fighting my way to the top of a sales organization, I felt unstoppable. I was consumed by proving myself, focused on my goals, and in constant growth mode. I thought all of my accomplishments would be relevant to my future, so I stacked my resume with achievements thinking they mattered. As I aged past 40, and then 45, my arsenal of knowledge and expertise continued to grow. On top of the knowledge I gained more life experience, wisdom and honed my leadership skills. I had become a wellrounded professional and was proud of my work and consistent drive to succeed. However, over 45, whenever I felt the urge to submit my resume for a role that appeared interesting, I noticed that I wasn’t getting the same warm reception I got in my mid 30’s.

Previously, getting an interview had never been a problem – and suddenly it was.

I reached out to my colleagues, with the question “What is happening? I’ve built my career, have the accolades to prove it, and employers are not responding.”

The common thread in these

conversations with colleagues was that they were experiencing the same. The no-brainer moves now, to preserve the appearance of youth, were to take college graduation dates off of the resume as well as the first 10 years of work experience. Poof. Get rid of it. I think one of the hardest things to come to terms with is that my experience and career tenure didn’t matter anymore. My birthdate did.

So, what do we do fellow AARP members? What resources or reinvention tactics do we consider in finding a new job or starting our own hustle?

Grow Your Network: Networking is a skill I lost in Corporate America. I was insulated by the corporate culture around me and didn’t need to create my own infrastructure of contacts and customers. When I decided to go out on my own, I had to start from scratch. Don’t wait as long as I did to build your network. Start now. Make the commitment to yourself that you will attend three networking events per month to begin to gain momentum. Ask friends what networking groups they recommend, join your local chamber, or volunteer at an event. You will find that you will meet new friends

and create new business partnerships.

These people will be essential to finding the right job or your next steps simply because they want to help you.

Consider Entrepreneurship: If you have been working for over 25 years, you most likely know how to run a business and have had the idea of becoming an entrepreneur. Now is your time. You have enough business acumen, experience and knowledge to start doing your own thing.

If this idea seems appealing, yet overwhelming you are normal. Grab a glass of wine and make a list of all of the businesses you see as something you could do on your own. This is your personal brainstorming session. Do not leave any idea off the table. Just get started. As you go through this process you will naturally identify what will work best for you professionally and financially.

Find a support system: A support system is essential to your encouragement and confidence. As we grow older in the workplace, we must realize we are not alone and that there are plenty of us dealing with ageism. I encourage you to find three to five like minded individuals that you can confide in, share ideas with and provide a safe place with each other. This support system will be your backbone in getting that new role, career, or finding the conviction to start your own business.

Get a coach: When I realized I was hitting a wall with my age and questioning what I really wanted to do with the rest of my career, I felt stuck. I knew I wanted to create change for myself but wasn’t sure how.

How was I to break out of my “old” mindset and comfort zone? I knew I needed assistance, accountability and courage. So, I hired a coach. I needed her to help me navigate the uncharted waters ahead of me. She provided me direction, love and support to help me grow into my second act. Hiring a coach will do the same for you.

I encourage everyone to take inventory of where you are at 50, consider what is important to you and take charge of your destiny. You have earned it and you deserve it.

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DAYNA L. REED Photo Credit: Didomi Photography

WELCOME BACK? It’s still fresh in my memory: returning to church after giving birth to our first child, Jaicie.

My husband Franklin and I were so excited for everyone to finally meet our baby girl. We arrived a little after the service began, so most of our friends would have to wait a while to get a closer look. Throughout the service, other moms periodically glanced our way with bright eyes and enthusiastic smiles, appearing just as ecstatic as we were about our new addition.

Things took a turn, however, when feeding time came and I pulled out the Avent baby bottle. As I sat there feeding my baby, I noticed a few of those warm looks strangely turn to scowls. Somewhat puzzled, I looked around, wondering if I’d missed something that was said, not realizing that those frowns were meant for me. The service couldn’t have ended fast enough for some of those moms to make a beeline to where we were sitting. But it wasn’t so that they could finally meet Jaicie or greet me. Instead, it was to grill me with questions such as:

YMMOM EERF-TLIUG

“What’s with the bottle?!”

“You aren’t nursing?!”

“Well, are you at least pumping?!”

“Please tell me that’s not formula in that bottle!”

I was so caught off guard by the ambush that my initial response was shocked silence, followed by: “Whoa . . .Wait a minute! What?!” My happy moment quickly deflated and I felt as if I’d shifted from being in the House of the Lord to the courtroom of Judge Judy.

What they didn’t know was that I’d had an emergency C-section followed by a tough recovery, and my new baby was a bit colicky – all factors that had led to my decision to discontinue nursing earlier than I’d hoped. And although things hadn’t worked out quite the way I had planned, everything was still good: my baby was healthy, I was healing, and we were happy!

Needless to say, I left church far from uplifted that day. Instead, I left feeling discouraged and questioning everything I had done for my baby those past couple of months. Although I’d been able to shut down the interrogation successfully at the time, the uncertainty their words produced and the feeling of having failed lingered for days to come. I desperately wanted nothing but the best for my baby. I began to wonder if I was giving her that.

I didn’t know it then, but this wouldn’t be my last encounter with this incriminating analysis over how I cared for my children or the second-guessing it created within me. In fact, it was only the beginning, and would unexpectedly grow into something more troubling than I could imagine. Something, my friend, I would eventually come to know as mommy guilt!

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1

Learn as much as you can about the elected officials. They will not officially take office until 2021 so now is the time to do your homework. Find out as much as you can about their political ideologies, their beliefs, and their views on matters that are important to you. If they are newly elected officials, find out about the work they've done in the past. If they have been reelected, find out what laws and bills they have supported. Learn about the local officials who directly impact you.

2

Once you've done your research and you know what local officials directly impact your everyday life, and what they stand for, now is the time to get to know them. Gather their addresses and telephone numbers. Be prepared to write letters and make phone calls. When issues come up that impact you or that you feel passionately about, make a difference by being vocal. Be prepared to attend city council meetings, school board meetings and more. Come with a plan of action. Be a voice beyond the polls.

3

Have you thought about running for office yourself? I know it may sound crazy, but as you learn more about the various local political positions, you may find an office that will allow you to carry out your ideas and initiatives. Talk it over with your family, friends, colleagues and mentors. See if running for public office would be a good fit for you.

4

Get ready for upcoming runoffs and midterm elections. There are elections every two years so don't rest now that the presidential election is over. If you don't like the outcomes of this election, get your feet on the ground and prepare for the next one. The fight doesn't end just because your candidates didn't win. Refer to number one on this list and learn about the elected officials, especially those who hold local positions. Learn which members of Congress are up for re-election, both state and United States.

It's still go time!

7 Things We Must Do Now That the 2020 Election Is Over

5

Go back to school. We're not talking about going back to college, but rather use this time to educate yourself on laws that are being passed, how government works, what political offices do what, and more. Most of this list is about being an informed citizen and voter. We can no longer sit on the sidelines and watch other people decide what happens to our everyday lives. We have to become a part of the process. One way to do that is through knowledge and education. Know the law. Know your rights. Know as much about the three branches of government as possible.

6

Join a political action committee or an organization that is fighting for causes that are dear to your heart. There are many organizations that are working to change laws and policies for everything from fighting to end gun violence, to ending police brutality to women's rights.

Again, do your research and become a part of a movement. If you don't feel that now is the right time, then show your support by donating a few volunteer hours or a few dollars.

7

Celebrate what you have already accomplished.

Whether your candidates won or lost, you voted and you made your voice heard. Never take for granted the power of your vote. Celebrate this as you prepare to move forward and continue to work to make a change in our society, our country, and our world.

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But while I may be the first woman in this office, I will not be the last.

KAMALA HARRIS, VICE PRESIDENT-ELECT

DR. GINA CHARLES Dr. Gina Charles knew at an early age that she wanted to pursue a career in medicine. As a Family Medicine doctor, she uses her platform to serve as an advocate for health related issues that directly impact Black women such as low breastfeeding rates and maternal mortality. With a career that extends beyond medicine, Dr. Charles is also the founder and owner of Serenity Aesthetics & Wellness, where she is able to fuse her love for medicine and beauty.

At the age of 4, I would accompany my aunt, who is a nurse to her place of work. I became intrigued by the way she cared for her patients, particularly women and girls.

Who is Dr. Gina Charles?

I am a classic Type A personality--I want it done and I want it done now. I am also a wife and mother of two in fierce pursuit of my goals. To balance that side of me, I enjoy quality time with loved ones and I have a penchant for international travel and meditation. As far as career goes, I am a board certified family physician, mentor, owner of a boutique aesthetics practice and co-owner of a wedding photography, videography, and makeup studio. One of my life’s goals is to encourage others to be their own advocate, be more, do more, and lead healthier lives filled with intention.

companies helped fund hospitals in low income communities leading to reduced breastfeeding initiation in these hospitals, where the majority of newborn infants were black. Other reasons include the lack of lactation consultants in hospitals in low income areas (specifically the lack of Black lactation consultants), systemic racism, biases, lack of access, lack of knowledge, lack of support (familial, peer, and social), lack of healthcare support, shortened maternity leaves, lack of support from employers for pumping while at work etc. have all contributed to a cluster of historical and systemic issues that continue to maintain the racial disparity.

You’ve known since an early age that you wanted to pursue a career in medicine. What led you to choose family medicine?

I was born in Dominica, West Indies and raised in Antigua.

At the age of 4, I would accompany my aunt, who is a nurse to her place of work. I became intrigued by the way she cared for her patients, particularly women and girls. This early interaction with the medical field was one of the main factors that influenced my life’s purpose. Since I too wanted to take care of women and girls, I originally thought I would pursue a career in Obstetrics & Gynecology. However, I also had a passion for beauty and enjoyed the outpatient setting. Family Medicine afforded me the opportunity to tailor my practice to treating the entire family, and also fuse my passions for beauty and medicine.

What can be done on the macro level and the micro level to increase breastfeeding rates in the Black community?

I am glad you asked because that’s something I am passionate about. The CDC recently reported that an increase in breastfeeding in the Black community can reduce the Black infant mortality rate by up to 50%. On a macro level, breastfeeding rates in the Black community can be increased by destigmatizing breastfeeding, removing the micro aggressions associated with breastfeeding, and addressing historical trauma from slavery. This can be done by focusing on legislation which would increase funding for breastfeeding education programs in low income areas as well as increase funding and positions for Black lactation consultants. On a micro level, the Black community and its healthcare providers can educate friends and families on how they can best support Black breastfeeding mothers.

You recently wrote a piece about the racial disparities within the practice of breastfeeding. Studies show that Black mothers breastfeed at much lower rates than white mothers. What are some reasons these disparities exist?

Breastfeeding in the Black community is a public health issue. There are several reasons why the breastfeeding disparity between Black mothers and their Caucasian counterparts exists. It dates back to slavery when Black women slaves were forced to be wet nurses: breast feeding the slave owner’s children. As years passed, there was a decline in breastfeeding in the Black community because of the negative association with slavery and being a wet nurse. Additionally, it is reported that baby formula

You experienced complications with your first pregnancy including pre-eclampsia. How has your birth story impacted your role as an advocate for Black maternal health?

It is said that “extensional crisis leads to political transformation” or simply put, experience often dictates one's life work. I gave birth to my daughter while I was chief resident. Although I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes and gestational hypertension earlier in my pregnancy, I continued working as a resident--which

CEOMOM | 17

came with its own stressors. I subsequently developed pre-eclampsia and went into preterm labor and my daughter was born via Cesarean section. This experience was nerve racking because as a doctor, I knew the protocols and possible complications of preeclampsia, and as a patient, I feared for my life.

After going through this as a resident, I was able to empathize more with my patients when I became an attending physician. I focused on treating them from a holistic approach because I understand the factors that contribute to the disparities they face. My experience with pregnancy related complications galvanized my position to advocate for better maternal health outcomes, specifically for Black women and infants.

Also, I have published several articles about the Black maternal health crisis, and have shared my experience on various speaking engagements. Currently, I am an active member of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women-Harrisburg, PA Chapter whose mission is to advocate on behalf of Black women and girls.

Black women are three to four times more likely to have and die from pregnancy-related complications than their white counterparts. What are some of the root causes of these disparities? What can be done to reduce the Black maternal mortality rates?

It is important to note that these complications are equally shared by Black women, regardless of socioeconomic status, educational attainment, or geographical location. Systemic racism, racial biases within the health system, stress, and being predisposed to chronic medical conditions contribute to the racial disparity. Malcolm X famously said: “...the most unprotected person in America is the Black woman.” So for us to facilitate the reduction of the Black maternal mortality rates, we must become champions for Black women by nurturing and protecting them. The approach must happen on several fronts: economic, social, health, judicial, and educational.

medical school, I did makeup for cancer patients to boost their self-esteem while they were going through their treatments. During that time, I also became a bridal makeup artist working alongside my husband who is a wedding photographer. We then formed Ade & Gina Studios—a boutique company that provides wedding makeup, photography & videography. Many of my makeup clients had skincare concerns, and needed help.

To provide them with solutions, I sought aesthetics training, fusing my love for beauty and medicine and birthed Serenity Aesthetics & Wellness. At Serenity, I provide integrative skincare solutions and offer guided meditation during the treatment sessions.

What is your secret to managing family and entrepreneurship with a medical practice?

Leadership! I’ll admit leading all of those roles can be difficult but definitely doable. I started by designing the life I wanted with careful attention to the details, and seeing how my needs could be met.

For example, after almost experiencing burnout with my first role as a physician, I intentionally transitioned to a position in a primary care setting with a highly flexible schedule. I also outsource many tasks to skilled professionals which frees up time. One of my top priorities is to ensure that I spend time with my family, whether it's watching television or traveling overseas.

Additionally, my husband manages his business from home, so he is able to be a stay at home father, which greatly helps in the process of raising our two children.

Lastly, I am intentional about self care, so I reserve time for mental and physical breaks. That is the only way I can operate at the level I do and be of service to others.

Learn more about Dr. Gina Charles at www.drginacharles.com, Serenity Aesthetics & Wellness at www.serenityawmedspa.com, onInstagram, Facebook and Twitter @drginacharles.

Photos by Ade Oshodi www.adeandgina.com.

We can start by identifying and understanding the covert and overt biases in healthcare and increase the implicit bias training for all healthcare providers and staff. Additionally, create wider access to high quality medical care: peripartum and postpartum for all patients regardless of social status.

In addition to being a board certified family physician, you are the owner of Serenity Aesthetics & Wellness which provides state-of-the-art aesthetic treatments and wellness solutions. What inspired you to open Serenity Aesthetics & Wellness?

The entrepreneurship life actually chose me. During

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THE CDC RECENTLY REPORTED THAT AN INCREASE IN BREASTFEEDING IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY CAN REDUCE THE BLACK INFANT MORTALITY RATE

BY UP TO 50%.

Photo Credit: Ade Oshodi

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HOW TO INCREASE BREASTFEEDING RATES AMONG BLACK WOMEN

"Destigmatize breastfeeding, removing the micro aggressions associated with breastfeeding, and addressing historical trauma from slavery."

"Focus on legislation which would increase funding for breastfeeding education programs in low income areas as well as increase funding and positions for Black lactation consultants."

"The Black community and its healthcare providers can educate friends and families on how they can best support Black breastfeeding mothers."

Dr. Gina Charles

ON MANAGING FAMILY & BUSINESS

I

STARTED BY DESIGNING THE LIFE I WANTED WITH CAREFUL ATTENTION TO THE DETAILS, AND SEEING HOW MY NEEDS COULD BE MET.

DR. GINA CHARLES

DR. PORCHIA JAMES

Photo Credit: Marcus Owens

ON WHY DENTAL CARE IS

FULL HEALTH CARE & INNOVATING ORAL SURGERY As the founder and owner of About Face Oral & Facial Surgery, and Phresh by Dr. Porchia, a luxury medical apparel line, Dr. Porchia James uses her love for surgery and style and beauty to transform lives and smiles. Known as The Style Doctor, this wife, mother, author and public speaker is on a mission to help people live out the best version of themselves by prioritizing health and making self care a priority. Dr. James uses her platform as a leading oral and maxillofacial surgeon to educate others on the role dental care plays in full body health.

skills in the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery and the safe administration of anesthesia. I also trained in managing patients in the ICU as many of the patients that we see have complex medical comorbidities that require specialized care. My program did not have ENT or Plastic Surgery residents, so I had a unique experience to be able to have a lot of complex oral reconstruction, facial trauma and facial cosmetic surgery training. I love what I do because my specialty is so vast and my daily procedures are constantly changing.

CEOMOM Magazine caught up with Dr. Porchia James to discuss her growing oral surgery practice, how she's educating and protecting her patients during COVID, the need for more minorities in the medical field, and why oral care is vital to overall wellness.

Who is Dr. Porchia James?

Dr. Porchia James is a Wife, Mother, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon, Style and Beauty expert, Author, Public Speaker, and Owner of About Face Oral & Facial Surgery and Phresh by Dr. Porchia, a luxury medical apparel line. I specialize in helping people reach their maximum potential as they embark on life changing transitions, for the betterment of themselves. I use my love for surgery and style and beauty as a means to help transform people to be the best version of themselves as they transition into a new career, higher position, or to help them create the smile of their dreams.

You decided at a young age to pursue a career in healthcare. What was the defining moment that led you to a career in dentistry?

I attended the High School for Health Professions at Townview Magnet Center in Dallas, TX. Ironically, I grew up wanting to be an OB/GYN because I always loved babies.

However, when I did an internship in a Gynecology clinic in high school, I immediately lost interest in that field. When I attended Xavier University of Louisiana, I joined the Minority Association of Pre-medical students (MAPS) who created the opportunity for me to shadow a general dentist and an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon...I fell in love. At that time, I only wanted to do General Dentistry because in my mind, the hours were not crazy, and it appeared like I would have a decent work life balance, while still taking care of my community. I feel like I was destined to become a doctor.

I’m originally from Dallas, TX, and graduated with a Chemistry/Pre-Medicine degree from Xavier University of Louisiana on a US Air Force ROTC Scholarship. After undergrad, I went on to complete dental school at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. After graduation from dental school, I was promoted to Captain in the US Air Force where I was stationed at Keesler AFB (Biloxi, MS), RAF Lakenheath, UK (England), and Shaw AFB (Sumter, SC). After my four active tenure in the US Air Force in the Dental Corps, I decided to return to an additional 4 year residency in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at Meharry Medical College. During my residency, I trained alongside ENT, Plastic surgeons, Anesthesiologists, and Internal Medicine Physicians. I gained valuable

What inspired you to transition from general dentistry to oral and facial surgery?

I was a general dentist in the US Air Force for four years. When I was stationed in the United Kingdom for a two year tour, I was able to do a lot of oral surgery procedures because this particular base only had one oral surgeon, in which they were normally slotted for two. As a result, I was afforded the opportunity to shadow this Oral Surgeon with complex surgeries in the operating room and in the dental clinic. I was also able to take calls for oral surgery at that time. Having a glimpse of hands on experience on what Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery consisted of, I decided to separate from the US Air Force and devote an additional four CEOMOM | 23

I specialize in helping people reach their maximum potential as they embark on life changing transitions, for the betterment of themselves.

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Photo Credit: Marcus Owens Photography

years of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery residency at Meharry Medical College and Nashville General Hospital. That was the best decision ever! In fact, my Air Force experience was highly beneficial in my acceptance into the program.

Tell us about your practice, About Face Oral & Facial Surgery. What separates About Face from competitors?

About Face is a military term meaning to turn around. My thought process for About Face is both literal and figurative, I transform faces through surgery, thus, transforming lives. I help people reach their esthetic goals, which helps to improve their confidence and also their livelihood in many ways. If patients are experiencing discomfort, I try to alleviate their pain. Many people suffer from infections, decayed teeth, and dental pain, which need immediate treatment, or the problem worsens. Our office utilizes advanced and innovative technology through digital planning of surgical procedures. We have a 3D CT scanner, that can digitally scan the mouth (instead of gooey alginate in the mouth), and also have 3D printers to plan complex implant cases. We also offer virtual consultations and pride ourselves in providing quality service for our patients, and always have short wait times because we do not double book. I like to take time during my consultation to get to know patients and I take the time to thoroughly discuss their surgery plan so that they are well aware of all risks, benefits, and complications of surgery.

My husband, George, a University of Alabama graduate (Roll tide!), is our office manager, and understands the business side and administrative portion of our business, which takes so much stress off of me. He spends time with patients discussing their insurance benefits, and how we can maximize their benefits and develop an affordable plan for them. You won't get top notch care in a family

atmosphere anywhere else!

You often speak about the importance of dental health in maintaining overall wellness. What role does dental health play in complete wellness?

Your dental health is definitely related to the overall health and wellness of your body. The mouth is a window into the health of the body. It can show signs of nutritional deficiencies or general infection. It is scientifically proven that there is a link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease as well as preterm or low birth weight babies in pregnant women. It’s very important for pregnant women to take even better care of their teeth and gums than average because hormonal changes can exaggerate dental issues. Therefore, given the potential link between periodontitis and systemic health problems, prevention may be an important step in maintaining overall health.

It’s important to brush your teeth twice a day for 2-3 minutes and floss at least once a day. Eat a balanced diet and limit snacking throughout the day because those carbs that we love turn into sugar, and reap havoc not only on our waistline, but, can also cause tooth decay and periodontal disease. This is why it’s so important to schedule dental exams with x-rays and a cleaning twice a year. People with periodontal (gum) disease even have to get deep cleanings even more frequently like 3-4 times a year.

What are the most common misconceptions related to dental care?

Many people think that Dentistry is expensive. In fact, neglect is what is expensive. Preventative Care is so important in prevention of oral diseases as well as oral cancer screenings. The sooner that disease is found, usually it is more affordable to repair.

However, if you wait too long, then, a small filling that was needed previously could turn into a root canal and crown, or even something more invasive like an extraction, bone graft and implant!

The bottom line is to not wait until you have a problem or have pain to see your dentist.

Oftentimes, if you’re having symptoms, then, it is too late, and something that could have been routine, is now a much bigger, and more expensive procedure.

Prevention is key!

What safety precautions are being taken to protect patients seeking dental care during this pandemic?

Many offices are implementing COVID-19 screening questionnaires and offering online medical history and office forms prior to entering the office to keep things as contactless as possible. You’ll also notice that many offices are taking the temperatures of patients upon entrance into the office. Per CDC guidelines as well as a Texas mandate, all patients must wear facial coverings before entering the building, and we ask that appointments are limited to only the patient, unless they are a minor, then, appointments are limited to one additional adult.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) have always been implemented in dental offices because of OSHA guidelines such as disposable gowns, eyewear, masks, and gloves, but, you’ll likely notice that many offices have stepped it up a notch of course through N95 masks, but, also the use of face shields, bonnets, and even shoe coverings.

At our office, we are only scheduling one patient at a time to help promote social distancing and to eliminate exposure around others. This also gives us enough time in between patients to ensure that we are disinfecting all surfaces thoroughly and definitely sterilizing all instruments, which, honestly we have always done prior to COVID-19. Prior to a procedure, you might even notice that your dentist has you pre-rinse with a peroxide based mouth rinse, which has anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties. Furthermore, you will see vigorous amounts of hand sanitizer generously around the office for use and even see offices implementing air purifiers as well. As a surgery office, our fields must be sterile when working on patients, and we take the safety of our patients and staff very seriously.

Photo Credit: Marcus Owens Photography

Only 3.8 percent of dentists are Black. How can diversity in dental professions help to improve dental care for minorities? What role are you playing in helping to increase diversity in the dental field?

I think that my background and down to earth personality helps me relate to minority patients. I believe when a patient sees someone that looks like them, it brings a sense of ease to them and brings more confidence in the doctor’s performance. I feel like I can explain things well to my patients, and patients feel like they can actually tell me the truth without judgement because I’m going to take their issues and concerns seriously.

A report published by the Healthforce Center at UCSF listed the Lack of Mentors Concordant with Student’s Race/Ethnicity as a key barrier that prevents the number of underrepresented minorities in health professions to increase.

I often mentor students interested in the dental field, and I also mentor dental students interested in becoming Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons (OMFS). I’m actually a unicorn as Black female OMFS's account for less than 2% of this specialty. I pride myself in wanting more diversity, specifically in dentistry, and definitely in OMFS as it is a white male dominant field.

I strongly believe that representation matters, which is why diversity is so important to improve the care for minorities and to inspire the next generation of dentists. I always tell my mentees that it doesn’t matter your background or where you come from, it’s all about where you’re going. It will take hard work, dedication, and guidance, and you too can go from “hood to hooded!”

To learn more about Dr. Porchia James, visit https://www.aboutfacesurgery.com/.

Photo Credit: Marcus Owens Photography

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GUILT-FREE MOMMY

BY DAYNA REED

10% off Use Code CEOMOM to receive a 10% discount off the purchase of the book.

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POLISHED EXISTS to gather young professional women to navigate career and explore faith. www.polishedonline.org

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SCREEN TIME VS. DREAM TIME

11 TIPS FOR PROMOTING HEALTHY SLEEP HABITS DURING COVID-19 Presented by: Children and Screens

Even before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, parents were grappling with the effects of screen time on their children’s sleep habits. Now, with so much of the world moving online, kids’ screen time has increased drastically, and many old routines are out the window. Experts agree that proper rest is essential for children of all ages, and unhealthy digital habits that develop now will only be harder to break in the future. With that in mind, Children and Screens: Institute of Digital Media and Child Development has brought together the leading researchers, clinicians, and experts to provide parents with these useful tips for helping kids get the sleep they need.

NO PHONE ZONE Parents who bring their phones into the bedroom are more likely to have children who bring their phones into the bedroom.

In order to wake up feeling more fully rested and recharged, I recommend that families have a central place to put all phones away about an hour before bedtime. To get started, it may be helpful to set an alarm on your device to indicate when it’s time to disconnect, and some may even want to keep that central charging place under lock and key. — Dr. Wendy Troxel, Senior Behavioral and Social Scientist, RAND Corporation

Keep the bedroom, and especially your child’s bed, as a device-free zone. earlier in the day, keep the blinds open, and get outside early and often! - Sarah Morsbach Honaker, PhD, DBSM, Indiana University School of Medicine LOOK TO THE BOOKS We don’t need to remind you how much better kids do on some kind of schedule - the payoff in their behavior and your sanity is priceless. But, have you ever considered establishing some sort of reading routine with your child? Not only can reading replace screen-time, it’s a great and calm way to connect with children.

Even if it’s just for 10-15 minutes a night, a reading routine can benefit children’s brain development, and it will create memories your kids will cherish forever. - Kim West, LCSW-C, aka the Sleep Lady

LOG OFF TO NOD OFF Avoiding screens in the hour before bedtime will help facilitate sleep onset and provide better quality sleep at night. Other important sleep hygiene tips include setting a regular bedtime, following consistent routines (e.g., bathing, brushing teeth, reading). - Dr. Jean-Philippe Chaput, Research Scientist, CHEO Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada

GET (IT) OUT OF BED Keep the bedroom, and especially your child’s bed, as a device-free zone. Don’t use devices in bed during the day, as we want the brain to associate that environment with sleep. With kids home most of the time now due to the pandemic, it can be easier to slip into habits of lying in bed and using devices during the daytime hours, but this can make it more challenging to fall asleep in that environment at night. Keeping devices out of the bedroom will help the brain follow more consistent routines and sleep habits. – Nicole Beurkens, PhD, Horizons Developmental Resource Center

LET THERE BE LIGHT Be strategic about when your child is exposed to screens and other light sources throughout the day. Morning light can increase, advance, or entrain your child’s circadian sleep rhythm (internal sleep clock), making him or her feel more alert in the morning and more tired at bedtime.

Evening light, on the other hand, can inhibit the release of melatonin, a hormone that prepares us for sleep. When possible, concentrate screen use for e-learning

POWER DOWN EARLY The later we stay up using devices, the less time we have for sleep. In addition, using screens in the evening can make it harder to fall asleep due to psychological, emotional, or physical arousal. Time spent in front of screens —if long enough, bright enough, and late enough in the evening—can also push our daily timing system back, which makes falling asleep even more difficult. For a restful night, reduce the amount and intensity of evening screen time, and have a solid plan for your child’s sleep

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schedule. - Mary A Carskadon, PhD, Professor, Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, EP Bradley Hospital Sleep Research Lab BAD SCREENS LEAD TO BAD DREAMS Avoid anxiety-provoking media, especially later in the day. When children consume content that’s emotionally overstimulating, such as a scary video or news story, it can lead to difficulties with sleep at night. Kids can fixate on those scary images or stories when they lie down to sleep, and being alone in the dark can exacerbate their fears. Use parental controls to help limit your children’s exposure to distressing content, and remember to be aware of any content you’re consuming that your kids might be able to see or hear, as well. – Nicole Beurkens, PhD, Horizons Developmental Resource Center YOURS, MINE, AND HOURS Virtually all material delivered on screens is designed to keep us engaged and watching, but it’s important to make sure kids get a full night’s sleep for their physical, mental, and emotional development. Children ages 2-9 require 10.5-12 hours per night, while young teens should get 9-10 hours, and older teens need 8.5-9.5 hours. Effective techniques for making sure your kids get enough rest include establishing a regular bedtime routine, modeling healthy examples of screen use, making the bedroom a screen-free zone, and requiring them to shut down all electronics an hour before bedtime (30 minutes can work for children over 13). If your teen must be on a screen at night for homework, use a blue light blocker app. – Daniel Lewin, PhD, Associate Director of the Pediatric Sleep Medicine and Director of the Pulmonary Behavioral Medicine Program at Children’s National MODEL THE MESSAGE With the whole family at home, our kids are extra aware of our daily habits. Teens and tweens are wired to look for unfairness, and they definitely notice when adults are watching shows late at night, using email or social media from bed, or keeping an irregular sleep

Photo Credit: halfpoint

schedule now that there isn’t a morning commute. Make a commitment as a whole family to put media devices down 30 minutes before bedtime and to keep regular sleep and wake times. Come up with creative ways to hold each other accountable, like using a tracking log, screen time features and apps, or a Fitbit. - Michelle M. Garrison, PhD. Associate Professor, University of Washington School of Public Health, School of Medicine, and Seattle Children’s Research Institute.

TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CHARGE Charge your devices outside of the bedroom! You don't need access to them in the middle of the night or to wake up. In fact, you can buy a nice digital alarm clock for less than $20. - Lauren Hale, PhD, Founding Editorin-Chief, Sleep Health, Professor of Family, Population and Preventive Medicine, Core Faculty in the Program in Public Health, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, NY LIGHTS OUT! It is important to make children’s bedrooms screen-free to ensure they get sufficient and quality sleep. However, for children with greater autonomy over their smartphone usage, it may be tricky for parents to maintain this screen-free zone. Ask your child to keep away from the smartphone or tablet once you put out the light.

Where this is not possible, ask children to keep the bedside lamp on if they are using their phone in bed.

Emerging evidence appears to show that children have insufficient and poor sleep when they use phones in darkness during bedtime. – Michael O. Mireku PhD, MPH, University of Lincoln, School of Psychology Proper rest is vital to the development of children’s brains and bodies, and it’s up to parents to both establish healthy habits and to demonstrate those habits themselves. Without a doubt, COVID-19 presents new challenges to maintaining routines and limiting screen use, but the good news is that following the tips included in this article will benefit not just children, but parents, as well. And who couldn’t use a better night’s sleep?

About Children and Screens Since its inception in 2013, Children and Screens: Institute of Digital Media and Child Development, has become one of the nation’s leading non-profit organizations dedicated to advancing and supporting interdisciplinary scientific research, enhancing human capital in the field, informing and educating the public, and advocating for sound public policy for child health and wellness.

For more information, see www.childrenandscreens.com or write to info@childrenandscreens.com.

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It's Not Funny

HOW TO TALK TO KIDS ABOUT ONLINE MEANNESS Presented by: Children and Screens

Photo Credit: Tero Vesalainen

With many schools starting the year online, kids of all ages are spending more time than ever on their devices. While this shift is designed to help slow the spread of the coronavirus, it’s also fueling the rise of another worry for parents: cyberbullying.

Bullying is nothing new, of course, but it takes a variety of different forms online that parents may not be used to or even aware of, and studies show that it can have long-lasting and wide-ranging impacts. With that in mind, Children and Screens: Institute of Digital Media and Child Development has brought together an interdisciplinary group of leading educators, researchers, and clinicians to help parents understand the world of cyberbullying with tips on how to prevent and stop it before it becomes worse.

SPEAK OPENLY Cyberbullying is a relatively new phenomenon in the scheme of things, and parents who didn’t grow up with it may underestimate the effects it can have on children, including anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, poor academic performance, and impaired physical health.

Clemson University Psychology Professor Robin M. Kowalski, PhD recommends that all parents become active participants in helping their children navigate the internet

from an early age. “Communicate with your children and teens about appropriate online etiquette,” she says, “and offer them possible responses to cyberbullying victimization, like not responding, blocking the sender, or telling a parent or teacher.”

Kowalski suggests that parents should set clear guidelines and consequences at home for the use of the internet and text messaging.

University of Córdoba Psychology Professor Izabela Zych, PhD agrees, adding that recent studies show that parental supervision is crucial for prevention of cyberbullying victimization and perpetration. “It’s not about being overprotective and interrogating children or constantly checking what adolescents are doing online,” she says. “It’s about showing trust and affection, love and care.” Zych recommends parents talk openly with their children and invite them to share their experiences and concerns. Children who feel that their parents are always there to help them will talk in a more honest way and feel more understood and listened to.

Director of the Brown-Lifespan Center for Digital Health Megan L. Ranney, MD, MPH, suggests that one way to help facilitate these conversations is to simply have them

more regularly. “By normalizing discussions about what healthy social media interactions look like, you're more likely to encourage your kids to tell you when there’s a problem,” she says. “And when the inevitable happens—when they see bullying, are bullied, or bully others— you’ll be able to start from a position of shared understanding, rather than one of judgment.”

SIT, LISTEN AND BE SYMPATHETIC If your child discloses to you that he or she is being cyberbullied, it’s important to present a measured reaction. “Take a deep breath and pause before responding,” says Licensed Professional Counselor wellness counselor Patricia Agatston, PhD. “Thank your child for coming to you and affirm this help-seeking behavior.” Agatston recommends showing curiosity and asking your child questions like “How are you feeling?” and “What have you done or thought about doing?” “Acknowledge their emotions and affirm any positive actions they’ve taken or are considering,” she says, “Let your child know that you’re available to help and that you can work together to find a solution.”

“Research has shown a strong association between bullying and suicide,” adds Scott Poland, EdD, Director of the Suicide and Violence Prevention Office at NSU Florida. “It’s critical that kids be listened to and asked

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Children and Screens

If your child discloses to you that he or she is being cyberbullied, it’s important to present a measured reaction. directly about any thoughts of hopelessness or suicide they may be feeling so that appropriate interventions can take place.”

Children often won’t tell their parents if they are being bullied online because they are afraid their devices or phones will be taken away from them. “Make sure they know this won’t happen,” says Stephanie Fredrick, Ph.D., Associate Director of Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention, University at Buffalo, SUNY. “Although it’s upsetting to hear that your child may be a target of cyberbullying, try not to let your distress get in the way of problem solving. Instead, listen to your child and find out more. Empathize with their feelings and problem solve with them possible responses and coping strategies, which may include reporting the behavior, taking a break from a specific app or platform, or communicating with your child’s school.”

STRENGTHEN SOCIAL SKILLS Children can protect themselves from cyberbullying and its negative effects by employing what University of Arizona Professor Michael Sulkowski, PhD refers to as the “Three F’s.” The first F is Family: don’t post or share any information that you wouldn’t be willing to share with your mother, father, or any other important family member. The second F is Forever: assume that everything you share online will be there forever. The last F is Freely Available: assume that there’s no privacy online and that any information you share is freely available to everyone.

Sticking to these three principles can help prevent cyberbullying and other problematic online behavior before it even starts.

Children who have already learned to manage rudeness and incivility offline are better equipped to handle it online. “Prepare kids for the ugly side of the internet in advance,” says family internet safety expert and author Sue Scheff. “When it comes to cruel comments, twisted truths, and mean memes, being forewarned is being forearmed.” Scheff recommends making sure children know how to flag, block, and report abusive content on social platforms, and that they feel comfortable telling a trusted adult if necessary.

Massachusetts Aggression Reduction Center Executive Director Elizabeth Englander, PhD agrees, adding that strong social skills can also help ward off trouble before it

starts. “Eating dinner with your children, encouraging them to pay attention to facial expressions and body language, and spending time practicing conversational skills can help kids avoid social problems online,” she explains.

SCRUTINIZE AND SPREAD KINDNESS A root cause of cyberbullying is that when we're online, we forget how impactful our words are. Harvard University student Trisha Prabhu, ReThink Founder and CEO explains, “From behind a screen, we're much more willing to say things we'd normally never say to someone's face. Keep your child from engaging in cyberbullying by encouraging them to pause, review, and ReThink before they text, post, or send a message.

Their mantra should be: ‘Does this message reflect who I am/who I want to be? Could I show this to a grandparent?’”

Susan M. Swearer, PhD, suggests talking with your kids about being their kindest self, both online and in person.

“Encourage your children to post positive, kind comments on other’s posts and pictures,” she explains.

“If they are kind online, then they might be less likely to bully others. Challenge them to be a ‘kindness’ influencer and pledge as a family to #BeKind21.”

SEE IT, SAY IT, SAVE IT The phrase “If you see something, say something” applies online just as it does in the real world.

Washington State School Safety Center Program Supervisor Mike Donlin recommends that students and families report troubling behavior to teachers or other administrators when necessary. Donlin also encourages parents and teachers to familiarize themselves with apps, platforms, and social networks their students are likely to be accessing, both school and non-schoolrelated. This will better help adults spot problematic issues like cyberbullying or grooming before it’s too late.

For adults, one of the most challenging aspects of dealing with cyberbullying is that we're rarely around to witness it. American Association of Suicidology President Jonathan B. Singer, PhD, LCSW, recommends asking for “receipts” if you think your child is being harassed, stalked, or abused online. "‘Receipts’ is slang for evidence or proof,” Singer explains, “and it could take the form of printouts of text exchanges,

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Photo Credit: Syda Productions

screenshots, or even recordings.” Since bullying behaviors are often repeated and targeted, gathering “receipts” can help parents better understand the scope of the situation, determine who’s responsible, and decide how to respond with confidence. “Receipts” can also be useful pieces of evidence should any kind of investigation become necessary.

SAY SORRY All of us are capable of bullying behavior, and the immediacy of online interaction means it’s easier than ever to share something that we’ll live to regret. “Social media platforms love to trigger us,” says Kidscape CEO Lauren Seager-Smith, FRSA, “and it takes a high level of self-awareness to recognize those triggers and pause before we post.” Such awareness can be especially challenging for children, who are still learning how to engage with others and self-regulate. “It’s important as parents that we educate our kids about the consequences of what they like and share,” SeagerSmith explains, “but it’s equally important that we help them understand when they’ve caused harm to others and learn to apologize.”

Not only will it improve children’s social skills, which will better prepare them for whatever comes their way, but it will also encourage them to reach out if and when they need help.

About Children and Screens Since its inception in 2013, Children and Screens: Institute of Digital Media and Child Development, has become one of the nation’s leading non-profit organizations dedicated to advancing and supporting interdisciplinary scientific research, enhancing human capital in the field, informing and educating the public, and advocating for sound public policy for child health and wellness.

For more information, see www.childrenandscreens.com or write to info@childrenandscreens.com.

It’s easier than ever to be a bully these days, and the perceived anonymity of the internet can often bring out the worst in people. However, as our experts all agree, frequent and open communication is the best antidote.

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Let's Get Real Motherhood

JESSICA PERESTA Finding Yourself In Motherhood When It Feels Too Hard

Photo Credit: Winnie Bruce Photos

Motherhood is hard. There, I said it. It’s magical and wonderful, but it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. I don’t think enough moms talk about the difficult days, seasons, and moments of motherhood. Everyone just walks around talking about how glorious it is and all the commercials make motherhood seem like it’s just smiles and laughter all day every day.

I get tons of joy out of being a mom. I would do anything and everything for my boys. We seriously have so much fun together each and every day. But, then there are “those” days. You know… the ones that come around where everyone is fighting, crying, or whining all the live long day. These are the days I didn’t expect when I became a mom. Yes, I had been a classroom teacher for 7 years and have worked with kids in a variety of ways. But, when it came to my own children, I just expected it to be peaceful and loving all the time. Um... not so

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much.

MY STORY I remember sitting in the doctor's office at the age of 16 hearing that I might have a hard time having babies one day. I had PCOS and although having babies was the last thing on my mind, I knew I wanted to have a family in the future. I kind of just put that out of my mind for a while and told myself I would just deal with it when I got a bit older.

Fast forward 7 years and I met my husband. We met, dated, and got married all within a year and a half. When you know he’s the one, you just know. I remember telling him about that doctor’s report from a few years earlier and he was nothing but supportive. We both agreed that we would wait a few years before having kids and that's exactly what we did.

Now at the time of writing this blog post, I’m a mom to 3 amazing little boys. My story turned out way differently than I thought it would. My boys are all so different with awesome personalities and characteristics that make them uniquely individual. I love being a mom and it’s one of my greatest joys in life. But, it’s not my only passion.

MOTHERHOOD IS HARD Although one of the desires of my heart was to be a mom, I didn’t realize how hard it would be. I saw all of these commercials of moms who were just smiling, changing a baby’s diaper while looking all put together, and making motherhood look glorious. There wasn’t one baby book that told me it might not look this way.

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Stop comparing yourself to other moms. Stop thinking you are not good enough. Stop thinking that you do not have it all together and never will. You were created to be exactly the mom that your kids need, and are not a mistake.

I have read so many articles and blog posts about enjoying every moment as a mom. News flash…I don’t and I never will. Think about your job, your life, and all the stressful things that come with it. Not every single one of those moments are enjoyable. But, I think in the moments that aren’t enjoyable, they teach us lessons. Those days I didn’t enjoy teaching, I would redo the lesson plan I had made. The days we get a bad medical report about one of our kids, the right doctor came along to answer our questions. In relationships, if we deal with hurt feelings, painful conversations, or just not knowing how to help a friend in need, these are opportunities to grow who we are as women.

Jessica Peresta of Industrious Moms

HOW TO NOT LOSE YOUR IDENTITY When you become a mom, you begin to lose your identity a bit. Of course there are amazing baby books out there that give so much amazing advice. But, they all say something different. It’s so tough knowing what to do to meet the needs of your sweet baby, who then grows into a toddler, then a preschooler, and then goes on to have a sibling.

Becoming a mom is hard. It doesn’t mean you don’t love your kids by admitting this. But, you went from an independent woman to all of a sudden having these sweet little lives depending on you to take care of them day in and day out. Being a mom means that someone always needs something and what you need gets lost in the shuffle somewhere.

But, on top of that, you begin to lose sleep, need to take a shower in 5 minutes or less, and end up eating crumbs from your child’s lunch plate. You might think back to that life you used to have of going out to lunch with friends or co-workers and miss that life a bit at times. Having these thoughts DOES NOT make you a bad mom.

It’s okay to want more for yourself. Maybe you just don’t know what that looks like yet. If you feel like you’ve lost yourself a bit in motherhood, think about what hobbies you like, if you’re wanting to pursue an online business or passion project, or what ways you can begin doing something for YOU! Then, make a plan to start fitting these ideas into your week. It takes time and planning on your part, but it is totally doable.

KEEP ON MOVING FORWARD So as a mom, I will not be able to enjoy every moment. Are there enjoyable moments? Yes there are, and lots of them! I enjoy my children so much and enjoy watching them grow into the people I know they’re created to be. There are so many moments of laughter, story telling, playing, tickling, dancing, hugging, kissing, snuggling, and coloring.

But…there are moments of defiant no’s, bad moods, and bad attitudes. There are days I feel pulled in every direction and don’t know whose need to meet first, and don’t want the child I get to last to feel like they’re any less important. There are days where I feel like I’ve yelled too much, haven’t interacted with the kids enough, or have been in a bad mood.

So moms that don’t have it all together, it’s ok. The good news is, no one does. What you see on social media is just 1/10000 of that momma's day. Do not listen to the voices from those around you who only see a snippet of your day or the voices in your head.

Stop comparing yourself to other moms. Stop thinking you are not good enough. Stop thinking that you do not have it all together and never will. You were created to be exactly the mom that your kids need, and are not a mistake. So go ahead and not enjoy every moment and I’ll be doing that right along with you.

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Photo Credit: Lekardo Pitts Photography

Sheila McGlown SHE'S MORE THAN A BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR, SHE'S A LIFE CHANGER “My life is never about me anymore, it’s all about who I can help.” Sheila McGlown is more than a breast cancer survivor, she is a force that has dedicated her life to empowering other women to live a life that is not defined by their struggles, but by the lives they impact. McGlown was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009 and has spent her years as a 10 year survivor educating, and serving as an advocate for metastatic breast cancer.

CEOMOM Magazine spoke with this former Air Force Senior Master Sergeant, wife and mother about her diagnosis and her fight to save lives.

Who is Sheila McGlown?

Sheila McGlown is a mother, daughter, friend, wife, veteran and survivor of breast cancer. I never want the title breast cancer survivor to define my life because I am more than that.

Actually, I don’t want to be remembered as a breast cancer survivor. Remember me as someone who wanted to make the world better than she left it. I am a conqueror of breast cancer. Cancer was one specific portion of my life that I have chosen to talk about to raise awareness in hopes I can continue to help save lives. She is also a strong and resilient spirit that whatever she puts her mind to, she seeks out guidance and obedience from God.

Tell us the story of your breast cancer diagnosis? What prompted your initial doctor’s visit? What type and stage of breast cancer do you have?

My breast cancer diagnosis began with a sneeze. I was sitting at my desk one day and I sneezed. After my sneeze I felt this burning sensation. I thought, “Well that’s weird.” A week went by and I sneezed again and felt the same burning. I thought, that must be my breast, because it felt like it was coming from my breast. I went to my doctor and she ordered a mammogram for me. The mammogram showed that I had breast cancer and the burning sensation I was feeling was the cancer pushing up on my ribs. Cancer had already spread to my liver and ribs. I was diagnosed with HER2+ ER/PR+ breast cancer in December 2009 and have been on some type of treatment since then. Metastatic breast cancer is treatable, but not curable. I will be on some type of treatment for the rest of my life. I have had seven surgeries (bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction) and because of my estrogen status I’ve had my ovaries removed which sent me into instant menopause. Many people don’t know but metastatic means the same thing as Stage IV. I didn’t know that when I was diagnosed so I had a great deal to learn about my own diagnosis.

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I have one daughter and she has been my right hand. I remember telling her about my diagnosis while she was attending the University of Toledo in 2009, and she wanted to quit college and come home to take care of me. One thing I didn’t want is for cancer to stop her from living her dreams. I told her, “NO, you will finish college and Mom will be okay.” That’s when I had to dig deep into the strength I had and remind myself that I would give this fight everything I had. She finished college, received her bachelor’s and master’s and is now a social worker. She cooks and makes sure I’m okay. She calls frequently and she’s always making me something creative. I call her the Mother Hen because she really encourages me to do better and be my best. She gives me strength when I think I’m empty and just have nothing else left inside.

How has this fight changed your life?

I think now I’m more experimental and fun. I love doing adventurous things and taking trips. I will say it’s an emotional toll, but it has made me a stronger woman. Resiliency is what comes to mind when I think of the past 10 years. I’m on my fourth progression and each time, I’ve had to pull strength from a different part of my soul. I’ve learned that it’s okay to cry. It’s okay to have down days where I just want to have my pity parties, but I don’t stay there. I have chosen not to let cancer continually try and deprive me of the joys of life.

Cancer already tried to take my body, but I will not let it take my happiness.

How are you helping spread awareness?

One in eight women will get breast cancer. Black women die at a much higher rate than our white counterparts from breast cancer.

Thirty percent of breast cancer will reoccur.

Photo Credit: Lekardo Pitts Photography

Walk us through the heart of your fight. What were your immediate feelings, thoughts, fears, etc? Where are you now emotionally, mentally and spiritually?

My mom died of breast cancer in 2004, she was diagnosed in 2001. My immediate feelings went straight to death and how much time I had left on this earth. At my initial doctor's visit I felt empty inside and confused, especially when they told me life expectancy for Stage IV is three to five years. My first thought was, “Why me, God?” But my mom always told me to never question God. My whole life flashed before me from childbirth until the day I was diagnosed. I was active duty military as well as in the United States Air Force so that meant retirement.

Emotionally, mentally and spiritually, I am in a good space. I have accepted my diagnosis and have chosen to live life to the fullest.

Describe the impact on your family, specifically your daughter. How have they helped you fight?

I will say it’s an emotional toll, but it has made me a stronger woman. Resiliency is what comes to mind when I think of the past 10 years.

I share my personal story because God has given me this platform to use it for his purpose. Someone needs to hear my story because the first thought of Stage IV breast cancer is death. But I’m still here 10 years after my diagnosis.

I advocate for many different causes. My current advocacy is focused on recruiting Black women for clinical trials. Currently, I am on a clinical trial because of a fourth progression on my 4th rib in July 2018. I have been on it for two years and I’ve had no progression and the medicine has been working. That’s why I encourage patients to have the open conversation with their doctors about clinical trials. Five to six percent of Black women enroll in clinical trials; this is not enough. As a community, we need more participation and we need for researchers to include Black women in clinical trial recruitment.

Photo Credit: TreCookin

What words of wisdom and encouragement would you give to someone who has been newly diagnosed?

It’s okay to have your moments to cry. Getting a diagnosis of breast cancer is frightening and uncertain.

Don’t always try to be strong, and have and appreciate your vulnerable moments.

Vulnerability makes us who we are. Know that your world as you know it will completely change and your normal will now become a new normal. Don’t be scared of your new normal and trust the process. If you are receiving chemo, your first day is going to be frightening, but you will make it through. Get a doctor who has your best interest at all times and if you feel the need to get a second opinion, please do. Be your own advocate and take someone with you to your doctor’s appointments. Make sure you understand what type of breast cancer you are diagnosed with i.e. HER +, Inflammatory or Triple Negative, and please make sure you know what type of chemotherapy you will be on. This way you can ask about the side effects and know what lies ahead. Not all will need chemo/surgery/radiation but know everything about your treatment plan. Keep a journal of your doctor visits, your feelings, and reach out for support if needed. There are many breast cancer support groups so find one in your area. Do not fight this alone because you are not alone.

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Natasha CEOMOM | 44

Photo Credit: Robert Villanueva

Photo Credit: The World's Greatest

When you think of an Olympic gold medalist like Natasha Hastings, you think of someone who has pushed her body to the limits, exhibiting extraordinary physical capabilities.

Hastings is an Olympic, World and US National Champion Track and Field Sprinter, specializing in the 400 and 4x400 meter relay events. When Hastings learned she was having her son, she experienced fears that she wouldn’t be able to continue her rigorous and grueling training schedule, and her relationship with elite sponsors such as Under Armour would be at risk. After her fears were eliminated by a supportive Under Armour and the continuation of an adjusted training schedule, Hastings is now the proud mom of Liam, and is getting ready for the 2021 Summer Olympics.

CEOMOM interviewed Natasha Hastings to learn more about her initial struggle with finding out she was pregnant, and how being a mom has changed her career as an elite athlete.

Photo Credit: Errol Anderson

Who is Natasha Hastings?

I am a woman, mother, entrepreneur and philanthropist.

You’ve shared that initially learning you were pregnant brought on anxiety and concern for your career as an Olympic gold medalist. Describe your initial concerns. How did you overcome your anxiety?

I was initially concerned with my sponsorship. Much of my sponsorship deals go toward supporting my training and associated expenses. I was faced with the question of whether or not I would have the financial support to continue training post baby.

MEET NATASHA HASTINGS

Olympic Gold Medalist on Life After Pregnancy

I shared my concerns with my friends and family. By the time I spoke with my sponsors, they reassured me that they would be supporting me through my pregnancy and beyond. It was a major weight off my shoulders.

I did a lot of reading and found that most women go through similar feelings

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I did a lot of reading and found that most women go through similar feelings

surrounding pregnancy. surrounding pregnancy. Reading other women’s stories gave me some solace in knowing that I wasn’t alone.

What are your top three tips for maintaining your mental health?

• Be gracious/forgiving of yourself.

• Make time for the things and people you love.

• Ask for help when needed!

How has being a mom changed your training routine, physically and mentally? Walk us through your current routine.

I currently try to schedule my training around Liam’s nap schedule. While he’s down gives us time to get a few things done. In the beginning it was hard, because I found that I was constantly worried about him.

Sometimes I would be at practice feeling like I wasn’t completely present, because I would be thinking of him.

I know that he’s in good hands with my mom when I’m working. So it’s much better now. When official training begins, I’ll have to be at practice all morning. Now, I’m able to be more focused and present on my training.

What tips do you have for a new mom who has a physically demanding career? What is the first step to adjusting to the new norm?

The first step is always to listen to your body. No one knows your body more than you. If you’ve already been physically active, and active throughout your pregnancy, you can most likely continue the same routine. I was also in very close communication with my doctors throughout the entire process.

Tell us about The Natasha Hastings Foundation? What does the organization do? Why is empowering young girls so important to you?

Our mission is to be a starting block for girls to become women of confidence in sport and life.

We host a virtual empowerment series of Tea Times where we talk about matters focusing on self-esteem and puberty through sports. We also provide financial

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Photo Credit: Kevin Garner

relief for girls to go to high school track and field nationals.

When I started the foundation, I thought about some of the things that were missing in my experience growing up in sports. These are tools that I wish I had access to as a girl.

You recently launched an online curriculum for young girls.

What is the curriculum about? How can students access it?

The curriculum is called The Starting Block. We focus on puberty and how it might affect your performance. We also talk about navigating healthy relationships with friends, family, and coaches.

Course dates will be available on our www.nhfcares.org, and our instagram, @nhfcares.

Learn more about Natasha https://www.natashahastings.com.

website,

Hastings

at

NATASHA HASTINGS

IN THE BEGINNING IT WAS HARD, BECAUSE I FOUND THAT I WAS CONSTANTLY WORRIED ABOUT HIM. SOMETIMES I WOULD BE AT PRACTICE FEELING LIKE I WASN’T COMPLETELY PRESENT, BECAUSE I WOULD BE THINKING OF HIM.

Photo Credit: Octavia Whitlowe

VICTORIA THOMAS

HELPING MOMS GET AND STAY FIT

Hailed as one of the top trainers in Dallas Texas, Victoria Thomas has dedicated her career as a performance trainer to not only helping her clients get fit, but helping them transform their physical and mental potential. As the founder and owner of JOURNEYFIT, a sports performance and fitness studio, Thomas has worked with some of the world’s top athletes including NFL, WNBA and professional volleyball players. Thomas recently opened a new JOURNEYFIT location to continue her work with pregnant women to stay fit before, during and after pregnancy. CEOMOM Magazine interviewed Thomas to learn more about her tips for helping busy moms create a health and wellness plan, and the work she is doing through JOURNEYFIT.

What is JOURNEYFIT? JOURNEYFIT is energy. JOURNEYFIT is positive. JOURNEYFIT is family.

JOURNEYFIT is life changing.

JOURNEYFIT is that health mentor you never knew you needed. It’s not just about providing an amazing workout environment, but we want to guide you through your nutritional route. Set goals and smash them. We have body composition devices that give us an in-depth analysis on the overall health of your body. These reports allow us to strategize an effective plan to get you to your goal.

It’s all about the transformation with JOURNEYFIT, not just physically but most important mentally.

The golden rule is you can always continue to work out the way you have been previously.

Tell us about the work you do with pregnant women?

Describe your methods to help women get and maintain prenatal health?

We have a couple of different programs for pregnant women. We also have an OB/GYN on staff that aids in reviewing our program. How to get new mommies to eat nutrient dense food is the first goal. Some pregnant mothers have a craving for ice cream at midnight and some pregnant mommies can’t stand the thought of food and experience heavy nausea. Wherever you land on the spectrum, it is important to understand that what you put into your body is important to the vital growth and health of the baby. We encourage pregnant mothers to consume tons of leafy greens and green vegetables. These are beneficial because they include fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, calcium, iron, folate, and potassium. Vitamins and minerals are what a baby needs to grow healthy and strong. Loading up on lean protein sources, sprouted grains, fruits, and tons of water is equally important. Also consult with your doctor to find a good prenatal vitamin that is non synthetic. We also create workout programs that are low impact and cater to the mother's needs. We want our new moms to maintain a strong core with little to no back pain. We also realize that balance is not optimal, so we make sure all exercises are safe. We know the threats that preeclampsia and gestational diabetes can pose. We also make sure our mothers have safe cardio regimens.

What are some of the misconceptions and myths related to pregnancy and exercise? How is your work at JOURNEYFIT helping to debunk those myths?

There are so many myths related to pregnancy and exercise. However, we are all familiar with step one: always consult with your OB/GYN or primary health care provider before starting your exercise routine. The next thing you want to do is think about what you have been doing pre-pregnancy to workout. The golden rule is you can always continue to work out the way you have been previously. If you are just starting an exercise routine, you want to stick to light impact exercises and just focus on strength. So of course, the biggest myth is that you shouldn’t lift weights. Strengthening the body is so important to a great delivery and post-natal process. Low back pain is the most common. Strong core is the most necessary. At JOURNEYFIT we customize strength training programs for new moms by trimester. There are different body changes that happen each trimester, so we change our strength program based on those things. For instance, throughout pregnancy, progesterone relaxes muscles and loosens ligaments and joints; we make sure the loads in strength training are optimal considering these hormones' effect on the body.

Photo Credit: Octavia Whitlowe

Why is strength training a vital component to any workout routine?

Strength training is vital to any workout routine because the benefits are vital to your health. Strength training increases bone density, muscles mass, joint flexibility and more. Strength training can reduce the signs and symptoms of many chronic conditions, such as arthritis, back pain, obesity, heart disease, depression and diabetes.

Strength training also prevents injury, it increases your balance and heightens your proprioception. This can be great protection to prevent or decrease injuries from falls.

My favorite benefit from strength training is –weight management. The more muscle mass you add to your body the faster your basal metabolism. Yes, more muscle, more calorie burns sedentary. So, the ultimate goal is making your body a calorie-burning machine because we don’t want to feel guilty when we eat those French fries. If our workouts are centered around increasing the lean muscle tissue in our bodies, we receive more benefits long term.

Strength training is key to optimal health. It increases your metabolism and will change your body shape.

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What are your top three tips to help busy moms get started on a fitness plan that includes nutrition and an exercise routine, especially moms who want to lose baby weight?

Tip 1: The most important tip in my opinion is, take the pressure off. We live in a world where the need to snap back coexists in the same time period postpartum depression is eminent. The delivery process is so beautiful and natural, but it is still a trauma to the body. Start your postpartum fitness journey with consistency in mind not a specific goal weight. Everything will eventually fall in place.

Tip 2: Your nutrition is key! If your eating doesn’t change, your body will not change, and you will become frustrated.

Decrease the amount of processed foods and snacks you consume. Your body’s healing depends on loads of vitamin and mineral packed food. Start finding creative ways to incorporate plant-based meals into your regimen. Increase your water intake. But most importantly minimize the junk. That is bready foods, fried foods, or consuming overwhelming amounts of sugary foods. Breastfeeding mothers especially need to consume great amounts of protein. You want to be able to produce good milk for baby.

Tip 3 : When starting your exercise routine, you should have a strength training program and a cardio program.

Having both will catalyst your weight loss. Think of your strength training program as lifting weights and cardio as aerobic exercise like jogging, walking, biking, etc. These different styles of exercise have different effects on the body but they both stress the importance of pulling fat storage as an energy source if there is a diet that is not processed carb dense.

Ok bonus tip and probably the hardest to suggest – You have to try and get some sleep. I know, I know you are probably thinking, “Victoria, I have a newborn baby not a newborn puppy!” I know it will be difficult but there are apps that can help you track your sleep even when you break it up throughout the day. Try to get 8 hours minimum a day. It is so important to your weight loss. Your stress hormones will be out of whack and the hormones you release that aid in weight loss and muscle recovery are released when you sleep. You have to make sleep a priority. I know this seems like a daunting task but if strategized properly it can be done.

Learn more about Victoria Thomas and JOURNEYFIT at https://www.journeyfit.net

Photo Credit: Octavia Whitlowe

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VICTORIA THOMAS

YOUR NUTRITION IS KEY! IF YOUR EATING DOESN’T CHANGE, YOUR BODY WILL NOT CHANGE AND YOU WILL BECOME FRUSTRATED.

Photo Credit: Nancy Valladolid

Dr. Bianca Busch

HELPING PARENTS AND KIDS MAINTAIN MENTAL HEALTH

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According to widespread reports, children are experiencing higher than usual levels of mental and emotional stress due to the pandemic. The constant disruptions and uncertainty are impacting adolescent behavior and mental health. Psychiatrist Dr. Bianca Busch, specializes in child psychiatry, helping children with culture and inventory exploration, anxiety and depression. Dr. Busch talked to CEOMOM Magazine about how to identify mental health issues in our children, and the best ways to maintain mental health for the entire family. She and her husband are expecting their first child March 2021.

sciences and learned there are a number of ways to impact the health of people.

Through my postgraduate work I saw mentors who were impacting the lives of individuals and communities as a whole and was inspired to continue pursuing medicine.

My first rotation was psychiatry and I fell in love. The field of psychiatry represented a wonderful blend of the social sciences and the medical sciences. As a psychiatrist you have the opportunity to consider the person as a whole. You take into account their history, their environment, and the physical state of their body. It’s really incredible!

What led you to a career in medicine, specifically psychiatry?

My love for science and math was fostered by my grandfather who was a math teacher, and a number of community organizations that were dedicated to exposing children of color to science, technology, engineering, and math.

Through college, I studied pre- medical

What inspired you to choose child psychiatry?

Having previously worked with children and families, I entered medical school believing I would be a Pediatrician. Child and Adolescent Psychiatry allows me to serve children and families and take care of them holistically. There is a wonderful

opportunity to intervene early in children’s lives and also impact the lives of adults parenting their children. Plus, you get to play with children and have your views challenged by adolescents. There really is never a dull moment in this work.

One of your areas of expertise is culture/identity exploration. Tell us more about your work with culture/identity exploration. What role does cultural identity play in mental health, especially for children?

As an undergraduate studying human development, I learned about the various stages of the lifecycle and how as the years pass our identity changes. Through my training in Psychiatry, I have learned more about how persons form ethnic/racial, gender, socioeconomic, and political identities. I enjoy working with patients who may be experiencing an internal or external conflict with their identity. For example, by providing psychotherapy, I may explore how a patient’s identity as a Black woman impacts her working or living environment.

The hope is that the psychotherapeutic process will provide some revelation of self, or place, and thus relief from conflict.

Identity for children is very important. In the early stages of their lives they are really concerned with how people/things are alike or dissimilar. This identity development evolves through adolescence and is often more solidified into early adulthood. Having a clear sense of self identity is one of the things that can provide a solid foundation for good mental health.

Tell us about your work as a Fellow in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Boston Children’s Hospital. What does your role entail?

As a Fellow, I am learning how to care for children and families. This two-year training focuses on gaining a robust understanding of child and adolescent development, use of psychotherapy for healing the child-family unit, and gaining secure knowledge of medication treatments for mental health conditions. This Learning consists of lectures and hands-on experience. We learn in a number of settings to include inpatient psychiatric units and outpatient clinics. I take care of children as young as five and sometimes even over 18. In my role as Chief Fellow, I lead a number of program activities and provide professional support to my coFellows.

Photo Credit: Nancy Valladolid

You provide tips to help parents maintain mental health for their children, as well as themselves. What are your top three tips to help families maintain mental health during a crisis?

1. Eat as well as you can and sleep as well as you can. This will help both parents and children.

2. Parents take care of yourselves. You’re doing hard work! Find at least one hour per week that is just for you.

3. Spend intentional time as a family. Go for a walk together, play a game (board or video), work on a project, cook together, etc.

How can parents identify mental health issues in their children? What is the first step to getting them help?

Parents know their children better than any health care provider. They are observing their children from day to day.

Changes in behavior may signal emerging or existing mental health difficulty. For example, you may notice changes in eating habits, play routines, school performance, or relationships with family members. If a parent notices these things, the first place to bring your concerns would be to your Pediatrician. They will ask you some

Changes in behavior may signal emerging or existing mental health difficulty. additional questions and help identify the next steps. This may include seeing a behavioral health specialist in their office or a referral to someone in your community.

What are the most common misconceptions about anxiety and depression? What are we getting wrong in our understanding of these conditions?

Many people do not recognize their own symptoms of depression or anxiety and just deal with their current state. Some people believe that a big event or trauma must take place in order to experience these symptoms. Both conditions are quite common with and without an inciting incident. Beyond identifying these conditions, many people believe that either nothing can be done, or the only option is medication. In my private practice, I work with my patients to CEOMOM | 53

Photo Credit: Nancy Valladolid

identify a number of healing strategies to changes in diet, body movement, mind-body work (meditations, prayer, gratitude), and talk therapy. I am well trained in the art of prescribing medications, but I meet patients where they are.

We may ultimately get to a prescribed medication, but it is not always the first stop on the journey of healing.

Once you’ve been diagnosed with anxiety and depression, how do you determine the best treatment for you?

You can speak with the clinician who diagnosed you or your primary care doctor about treatment options. These may include lifestyle changes (exercise, nutrition), mind-body treatments (meditations, psychotherapy), and/or medications (to include supplements). Every individual is unique and should have a plan that caters to their specific needs.

To learn more about Dr. https://www.drbiancabusch.com.

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Bianca

Busch,

visit

DR. BIANCA BUSCH

HAVING A CLEAR SENSE OF SELF IDENTITY IS ONE OF THE THINGS THAT CAN PROVIDE A SOLID FOUNDATION FOR GOOD MENTAL HEALTH.

Photo Credit: Octavia Whitlowe

DR. TIFFANY WOODUS WORKING TO ELIMINATE WOMEN'S HEALTH DISPARITIES

Dr. Tiffany Woodus, MD, FACOG, is on a mission to eliminate the maternal health disparities of Black and brown women through education, elevation and empowerment. Dr. Woodus is the founder of Woodus Obstetrics and Gynecology, a comprehensive women’s healthcare practice serving Cedar Hill, Texas and the surrounding areas. Her work as a healthcare provider includes being an educator and advocate for Black maternal health, and a reproductive justice advocate.

CEOMOM Magazine caught up with Dr. Woodus to discuss medical conditions that impact women such as ovarian cancer and fibroids, her work to decrease Black maternal mortality, and the root causes for the disparities in health care for Black and brown women.

Who is Dr. Tiffany Woodus?

I’m a country girl from small town Arkansas. I grew up as a preacher’s kid with a small congregation of supporters, small enough to fit in the living room of our home. Those folks believed in me even before I believed in myself. I mean they bought into my dreams 100%, so much so that they called me doctor from the age of eight when I first started exploring this dream. Every kid needs that, a group of adults who are sold out crazy for them and believe they can achieve even what they can’t yet see. This was my first platform.

My heart for service started there, in that church. It was nurtured by my family who taught me to be both gracious and relentless in pursuit of my goals. From my Dad who is a servant leader from the podium, to my Mom who is my biggest supporter, to my grandfather who is the hardest working man I know-service is my core. It’s who I am. It’s what I do. It’s that spirit that led me to a career in medicine.

What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine, specifically in obstetrics and gynecology?

I choose Obstetrics & Gynecology because it is so multifaceted. I consider it an absolute honor to be afforded many different opportunities to add value and enrich a woman’s life during some of her most intricate stages of becoming. My focus on women’s

health allows me to combine education, prevention, and various intervention strategies to empower women with the tools they need to thrive.

Studies show that African-American women suffer fibroids two to three times more than white women. Why are Black women suffering from fibroids at much higher rates than white women?

The short answer is, we don’t know. We know fibroids are not necessarily considered to be genetic, as in, we haven't identified a gene that increases your risk for fibroids, for example, the BRCA gene, which we know to be associated with breast, ovarian cancer, and other types of cancer in women. However, we know there is a genetic predisposition, if you will, to women who develop fibroids.

In other words, if women in your family have fibroids, you are also at increased risk to develop fibroids. We know there are hormonal influences that factor into women developing fibroids. The most significant risk factor for the development of uterine fibroids is prolonged exposure to unopposed estrogen. We recognize that Black women are disproportionately affected by what we call social determinants of health such as food insecurity, increased exposure to environmental toxins, etc. These conditions can increase your risk for certain medical comorbidities like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. These comorbidities are associated with an increased risk for fibroids. The concept of weathering may also play a role. This refers to the chronic stress and associated accelerated aging, coined “weathering” that comes from the daily navigation of living and functioning in a society rooted in systemic racism and the unconscious bias implicit within that system. We know that there could be some dietary influences as well, for example increased consumption of foods or additives associated with inflammation. There is also some research that has suggested an association with the use of hair relaxer and increased risk of fibroids. It's one of those areas that's still wide open for research and a lot needs to be done to answer that question.

What are the most common signs and symptoms of fibroids?

There are some women who have fibroids who have absolutely no symptoms whatsoever. They happen to be found incidentally, maybe at the time of a pelvic exam for another reason, maybe just a well woman's exam, or maybe a woman having an ultrasound CEOMOM | 57

My focus on women's health allows me to... empower women.

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done for another reason, like a pregnancy ultrasound. On the other hand, you can have women that have a variety of symptoms with fibroids. You can have normal periods, which we would define a normal period as bleeding that occurs anywhere from 28 to 35 days with no more than seven days of bleeding and no excessive flow.

You can have heavy bleeding while you're on your period. You can bleed in between your periods. You could bleed every single day of your life to the point where it's significant, causing anemia, and requiring blood transfusions.

Any flavor of bleeding you can imagine, you could see with fibroids. You could have pelvic pain or pressure symptoms, bulk symptoms. So if you think about it, a fibroid is something extra in the pelvis, taking up space where it should not be. And we forget about the other things that are surrounding the uterus. The bladder is on the front lower portion of the uterus, the rectum is behind it. If you have a fibroid, that's big enough to press on or affect these organs, you can see urinary or bowel problems. You can have pain with intercourse.

Fibroids can cause leg or back pain. If you have a fibroid that's taking up space in the cavity, inside the uterus, you could see issues related to fertility, such as recurrent miscarriage or even malpresentation where a baby is breach, because the fibroid is in the way and the baby can't get head down for delivery. So there's a myriad of symptoms you can definitely see with fibroids.

How can women prevent or decrease the occurrence of fibroids?

This is a difficult question given we are still learning about what causes fibroids. We know pregnancy may lower a woman’s risk of developing fibroids and the risk continues to decrease with more pregnancies. We also know long-term use of contraceptives may also decrease risk. Other preventative measures may include: maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating a well balanced diet including the recommended amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and finding ways to minimize stress. Avoiding /minimizing exposure to chemicals, either natural or synthetic, that may be associated with adversely impacting hormonal balance can also be worth considering. More research is needed in this area.

What are some treatment options?

One of the first things to consider is to ask yourself-how is this condition impacting me? If you are having normal periods, you're not anemic,

you're not symptomatic-Is this something that we can conservatively manage with surveillance for the development of symptoms and to ensure the fibroids remain stable. If the answer is yes, then expectant management could be a reasonable option.

Beyond conservative management, treatment centers around a woman’s family planning desires.

This is because some of the available treatment options will not facilitate future pregnancies. Our goal is to start conservatively with the options that have the least amount of risk associated with them, if those things don't work for us, then we move on to more invasive measures.

Medical options are generally based on symptom control. So we have to first identify the main concern. Is it pain or pressure symptoms, bulk symptoms, or is your concern bleeding? We tailor our medical management to address those symptoms.

In terms of non-hormonal medication options: We can use anti-inflammatory medicines, like prescription strength Ibuprofen. We know that at prescription strength, Ibuprofen can decrease the inflammation pain associated with uterine fibroids, as well as decrease the amount of bleeding associated with them as well. Other options include a medicine called Tranexamic acid that decreases the amount of blood loss associated with uterine fibroids.

And then, we get into hormonal treatment options, which can include birth control pills, the patch, hormonal rings, the shot, the hormonal implant, or the progesterone IUDs. There are lots of options. It just depends on your specific situation, your exam, and your desires. Again, the goal of these treatment options is symptom management. These meds won't get rid of or shrink the fibroids, but they should decrease the pain and bleeding associated with the fibroids.

Lastly, hysterectomy is the definitive treatment for uterine fibroids. This is a surgical procedure that removes the body uterus including the fibroids. It can also be performed in a variety of ways including: vaginally, laparoscopically, robotic assisted, or through an open procedure.

This is not a comprehensive list. Contact your physician for more treatment options.

Photo Credit: Octavia Whitlowe

September was Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. What are the most common signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer?

What are the statistics related to this disease, specifically as it relates to Black women? What can women do for prevention?

Ovarian cancer is the 5th leading cause of cancer deaths among U.S. women, more than any other cancer of the female reproductive system. It accounts for 3% of cancers in U.S. women. A woman's lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer is 1/70. Ovarian cancer rates are highest in women aged 55-64.

Approximately 21,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year. 10% of these cases are attributed to hereditary BRCA 1 & 2 mutations. Approximately 14,000 women die from ovarian cancer each year.

Here’s what Black women need to know about ovarian cancer: White women have a higher incidence of ovarian cancer (12.8 new cases per 100,000) compared to black women (9.8 new cases per 100,00).

Black women tend to present with more advanced stage ovarian cancer compared to White women.

Black women are less likely to have access to quality care and standardized, evidence-based treatment.

Black women suffer worse outcomes. With the implementation of aggressive surgical and chemotherapeutic management, overall survival of ovarian cancer improved from 36% to 45% from the 1970s to 2010. However, the survival rate for black women decreased from 42% to 36% during that same period of time. From 2002-2011, the mortality rate associated with ovarian cancer decreased by 2% per year for White women and 1.4 % per year for Hispanic women, but stayed the same among Black women.

Being proactive about your health may help you take the necessary steps to lower your ovarian cancer risk.

Black maternal health is slowly becoming a part of the national conversation as we continue to discuss racial disparities in healthcare. How is Woodus Obstetrics & Gynecology working to end disparities in women’s healthcare?

We are failing our mothers. Particularly our black and brown mamas who are 2x more likely to struggle with infertility, 23x more likely to have unintended pregnancies, 2x more likely to deliver preterm, 2-3x more likely to have gestations that result in fetal deaths and 3-4x more likely to die from pregnancy related complications.

Woodus Obstetrics & Gynecology is my answer to this crisis.

"Black women are less likely to have access to quality care and standardized, evidence-based treatment."

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Photo Credit: Octavia Whitlowe

Photo Credit: Octavia Whitlowe

We are working hard to create an experience in women’s healthcare where you are celebrated, not just tolerated. We understand the issues and unique risks that inundate black and brown women in our healthcare system. We are committed to providing all women with the Rights, Respect, and Resources necessary to thrive in every aspect of healthcare. We are dedicated to doing our part to end women’s health disparities through Education, Elevation, and Empowerment. We will continue to do the work to ensure No mama is left behind. We hold firm to the belief that we are only as strong as our sister beside us.

What can expectant Black women do to protect their health and that of their babies?

Assemble a dream team of advocates. Studies have consistently shown us that the additional support that comes with expanding your prenatal team to include doulas and midwives improves maternal health outcomes. Expectant mothers with this type of support have been shown to be 2x less likely to experience a birth complication involving themselves or their baby. For example, moms experience lower rates of cesarean deliveries and other procedures that may be associated with an increased risk of morbidity. Other benefits include increased rates of breastfeeding, which is beneficial to both mom and baby’s health.

Pick a provider who gets it. One who understands and respects that your cultural nuances inform your medical decisions. Research shows health outcomes for Black patients are better when they are treated by Black doctors. This is critical given POC generally experience poorer health outcomes across a variety of diseases and conditions. These findings are attributed to improved communication between Black patients and Black physicians.

Black doctors are more likely to provide a comfortable setting to Black patients, perhaps because of shared experiences or backgrounds.”

Dr. Marcella Alsan-lead researcher on the 2018 Stanford study examining the impact of physician diversity on medical decisions and outcomes among Black men Check the bedside mannerisms. Choose someone who invites you to actively participate in the decision making processpresents options/opinions not mandates/directives, and asks for and respects yours in return. As a physician, I don’t care how many books I’ve read or cases I’ve seen, I’ve not spent a single day in your shoes. Unless we have history, I’m using a 15-20 minute interaction with you to make the best informed decision I can. The bottom line is nobody knows your body like you do.

Show up. Don’t be a spectator. Use your voice. Be persistent.

Make your thoughts, concerns, and questions known.

Help me, Help you. Educate yourself. Equip yourself to actively participate in your care. Lack of education leads to loss of options. This leaves you at the mercy of what somebody tells you. And what that somebody chooses to tell you (or withholds from you) is informed by their implicit bias. Find out everything you can about your health from reliable resources. Take notes.

Seek out a second opinion (or even a third or fourth opinion) if necessary.

Don’t be afraid to switch providers. You have options. Find a provider who sees you, hears you, and has a plan to optimize you.

To learn more about https://woodusobgyn.com.

Dr.

Tiffany

Woodus,

visit

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