Myths Can Have a Happy Ending

Myths Can Have a Happy Ending

Myths Can Have a Happy Ending One of the main reasons I have continued Closing the Gap in Health Care is to decrease the myths and untruths in the African American and underserved communities.  One myth that I do not often hear is placing moss in your shoes to control...
The Bucket List

The Bucket List

The Bucket List The bucket list is a collection of things that you would like to accomplish within your lifetime.  Frankly, I never thought of a bucket list until the death of my youngest daughter, Tonisha Bell Alston.  She decided to take matters into her own hands...
Years Ago, I Lost a Son

Years Ago, I Lost a Son

Years Ago, I Lost a Son This time of the year, I am guilty of many reflections on the vicissitudes of my life. The sudden death of my young son is still painful. The circumstances of his death were not managed well by my colleagues who did what they could to save his...
Holiday Illnesses

Holiday Illnesses

Holiday Illnesses During the Christmas season, overindulgence of alcoholic beverages is possible. These drinks can wreak havoc on your health and can cause a trip to the ER, result in being admitted to the hospital, and possibly death. The intake of excessive alcohol...
We are 15 years old!

We are 15 years old!

We are 15 years old! Closing the gap in health care for African Americans and the underserved (CTGIHC) is 15 years old! Fifteen years ago the idea of CTCIHC was born and we became a 501c3 organization. When I pitched the idea to others, it received minimal enthusiasm....
Move Every Day

Move Every Day

Move Every Day It is a heartbreaking experience to see someone, you love, with dementia.  I have seen, as a physician, this phenomenon occurs among many patients and recently, personal friends.  I am not convinced that black people understand, in many cases, vascular...
You Love Medicine if You Love Life

You Love Medicine if You Love Life

You Love Medicine if You Love Life It is not unusual for some African Americans to fail to seek medical care in a timely fashion, even when needed.  Some people continue not to believe in modern medicine and do not get appropriate screening for cancer, take...