Secure Your Oxygen Mask First! A Journey to Women's Wellness...
Prioritize Yourself, Empower Your World!
About me
WHERE TO START?
My personal story of resilience, perseverance, and survival inspires audiences of all ages to excel and thrive in their personal and professional lives, despite obstacles.
I am a Survivor, a #1 Best-selling Author, Speaker, Daughter, Sister, and a “Bonus Mom!” I am a Women’s Health & Cultural Humility Advocate, and most importantly, a woman that began sharing my on-going journey through the joy & pain of living with chronic illnesses and pain, surviving multiple health challenges & experiences - but realizing how they brought love & light into my world through building my resilience, positive mindset, and embracing self-care.
With 20+ years of public health experience in planning, evaluating, and conducting policy-relevant public health programs, designing, and analyzing research and evaluation projects. I excel at establishing rapport and communicating with teams to ensure high quality content capture and analysis of projects. My background in behavioral and community health, women's health in communities of color, and health disparities, enables me to ensure health programs are designed to meet objectives and systematically execute organizational priorities within stated timelines. I have recently focused on developing solutions for developing culturally appropriate interventions surrounding healthcare delivery, linkage, engagement, and retention in care in diverse healthcare settings. It has led me to continue to share my passion by helping others. Our ramp up process is designed to empower your team and outfit them with the tools they need to succeed. Talk to us today about how we can support your growth, limit your turnover, and put you on a solid track to success and sustainable inclusion.
As Seen In
book me
My Story
The Journey Continues...
My Journey to Meraki Life & Style: A Story of Resilience and Empowerment
"You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice."
Bob Marley
The Beginning of My Battle
Almost 25 years ago, my life took a dramatic turn. During my sophomore year in college, I was jolted awake by an excruciating pain that left me breathless and writhing on the floor. The pain was so intense that my boyfriend had to carry me to the emergency room. After hours of agonizing tests and examinations, I was diagnosed with Stage IV Endometriosis—a chronic and extremely painful condition that affects 1 in 10 women.
A Lifetime of Challenges
From that night forward, my life was a series of medical appointments, surgeries, and treatments. By the age of 19, I was told that I might need a hysterectomy and that carrying a child could be life-threatening. The weight of this diagnosis was overwhelming, but I refused to let it define me.Over the next two decades, I consulted with over 20 OB/GYNs, underwent five surgeries, and endured multiple treatments, including Lupron and Mirena, each with its own set of debilitating side effects. Despite these efforts, my condition worsened, culminating in a hysterectomy in 2019. This procedure, meant to alleviate my suffering, led to a series of complications, including a transected ureter, chronic pyelonephritis, and several hospitalizations.
Finding Strength in Adversity
In 2012, I was also diagnosed with Adenomyosis and Fibroids, adding another layer to my chronic pain journey. In 2018, a brain tumor diagnosis further tested my resilience. Yet, through every challenge, I found strength and a renewed sense of purpose.
The Birth of Meraki Life & Style
It was this relentless journey that inspired me to create Meraki Life & Style, LLC, and more specifically, The Meraki Empowerment Collective. My mission is to provide a sanctuary for those battling chronic pain and health challenges, offering resources, support, and a community that understands their struggles.
A Message of Hope and Empowerment
As I continue to recover from my recent brain surgery, I remain committed to sharing my story and advocating for others. I dream of a future where conditions like endometriosis receive the attention and research they deserve. Organizations like Endo Black, Inc. are paving the way, and I am proud to be part of this movement.
Join the Meraki Empowerment Collective
If my story resonates with you, know that you are not alone. At Meraki Life & Style, we believe in the power of resilience, self-actualization, and affirmation. We are here to support you on your journey, providing the tools and community you need to thrive despite the challenges.Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I look forward to connecting with you and supporting you on your path to wellness and empowerment. Remember, no matter what you’ve been through, you are still here, and you are stronger than you know. 🙏🏽😁 #smilethroughthepain
Services
Facilitation Services
Available to speak and/or present at:
- Colleges & Universities
- Panel Discussions
- Organizational meet-ups & retreats
- Conferences & Workshops
Vision Boarding & Journaling Workshops
Scientific studies reveal that when you visualize an action, you stimulate the same brain regions as when you actually perform that action. Learn to embrace and manifest your goals through meditation, vision boarding and journaling!
Speaking Engagements
Speaking Engagements
Topics Include:
- Resilience
- Reproductive Health Challenges
- Surviving a Brain Tumor
- Securing Your Oxygen Mask First