We had the good fortune of connecting with Nia Bailey and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Nia, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
My ultimate goal is to be unapologetically myself, embracing my unique identity and using it as a platform to guide others towards Christ. I believe in the transformative power of faith and aim to share this with others, fostering a sense of spiritual growth and community.
In addition, I am committed to providing every individual across the globe with comprehensive resources and tools for cancer prevention and treatment. This includes sharing vital information on family cancer and medical history, which can often provide crucial insights into an individual’s risk factors. I also aim to promote awareness and understanding of clinical trials, which are at the forefront of medical innovation and can offer new treatment possibilities.
Furthermore, I believe in the importance of detailed genetic testing, which can identify inherited cancer risks and guide personalized treatment strategies. I want to empower individuals to know their bodies, to recognize early warning signs, eat colorful and nutritious foods, exercise, and to advocate for themselves in medical settings, as these are key factors in early detection and successful treatment.
My vision extends to the healthcare system as a whole, where I aspire to ensure that everyone, regardless of their location, race, ethnicity, gender, language, age, or financial status, receives equitable care. I believe that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege, and I am committed to working towards a world where this is a reality.
Ultimately, my end goal is to empower all people to lead thriving, healthy, loving, Godly, and prosperous lives. I believe in the potential of every individual to achieve wellness and prosperity, and I am dedicated to providing the resources and support to make this possible. I envision a world where everyone is able to live their best life, grounded in health, love, faith, and prosperity.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What keeps me busy professionally? The lack of equity, empathy, love and cultural competence in the world. Therefore it is my responsibility, maybe even my life’s mission, to make sure everyone receives equitable, empathetic, loving, culturally competent, affordable care. Until that happens, I will continue to be busy, professionally.
It is also for that reason we have created Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation. We believe is important EVERYONE receives equitable care, respectful and culturally competent care.
Our Mission is to effectively assist individuals battling cancer by connecting them to vital support and resources. We ensure that all relevant information reaches those in need, guiding them towards the resources necessary to fight their battle against cancer.
Our Vision is to be the link in the extensive network of cancer care, leading patients to the resources they require in their fight against cancer.
Our Core Values: The Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation core values revolve around empowering individuals facing cancer. We are dedicated to connecting them with vital support and resources, acting as a bridge between patients and the organizations that can offer necessary assistance. Ensuring accessible and relevant information is a priority, and we strive to guide patients towards the resources they need for effective cancer combat.
Comprehensive Support: Our organization is dedicated to assisting individuals facing all types of cancer by connecting them to vital support and resources.
Collaboration and Networking: We serve as a bridge, linking patients with other organizations that can offer the necessary help and resources.
Empowering Patients: Guiding individuals towards the resources required to combat cancer effectively.
Empowerment through Education: We believe in enhancing knowledge through educational workshops and symposiums, enabling individuals to better understand their condition, available treatments, and prevention strategies within their communities.
Huge thanks to our board for seeing the need, and providing action!
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President: Dr. Nia Imani Bailey, DPA, M.A.Ed., RT(T)
Vice President: Shogunny McBeth-Alexander, NP
Development Director: Brittany Young, B.S., L.E
LGBTQIA+ Advocacy Directors: Jenna Bucolo, RN and Kate Bucolo, RN
Medical Advisor/ Board Member: Dr. Monique Gary, DO, MSc, FACS, FSSO
Executive Director: Trudean Haye
Director: Narda J. Fields
Secretary: Shannon Stones, M.EdL
Board Member: Jarrod Hill, B.A
Board Member: Curry J. Bailey III, M.Ed
Board Member: Alvin R. Fields, B.A
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I don’t believe I would choose a specific place as my ideal setting, because to me, home is not a location but a feeling. It’s being surrounded by the people I love. That said, any gathering with my loved ones would undoubtedly involve food! I absolutely love to eat, and sharing a meal is one of the simplest yet most profound ways of connecting with others.
We would definitely have a soundtrack of Hip Hop, Rap, Gospel and Old School RnB music playing in the background, featuring hits from the 60s to the 90s. Music has a way of setting the mood and bringing back memories, and these genres are close to my heart. I love listening to Toni Braxton, Monica, Carol Riddick, Kharisma McIlwaine, Alexa Esperanza, Jay-Z and Fred Hammond!
The most fun, interesting, and exciting people in my life are my family and friends. In particular, my friends/sisters Imani, Tatiana, Jordan, Tania, Tam, Nishy, Aysha, Bri, Glammy, Marquita, Cortney, Trudean, Hannah and Carly bring so much joy and laughter into my life. Their presence makes any gathering feel like home. I love my girls!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my incredible family.
My father, Curry J. Bailey III, has always instilled in me the importance of Black Pride and the ability to see the bigger picture. His unwavering support and wisdom are invaluable.
My mother, Narda J. Fields, is the epitome of kindness, love, and authenticity. She’s an author, Chef + CEO of More Than Kale Meal Prep and Catering and entrepreneur, and she’s the woman I aspire to be. If I had to choose another mother, I would still choose her every time!!!
My brother, Jarrod Hill, is a phenomenal man, a true legend! He is the founder and CEO of 4 Hills Junk Removal. Their mission is to declutter space which is beneficial physically and mentally! His presence uplifts everyone around him.
I also want to acknowledge my Uncle Alvin, who I absolutely adore, my Shero Andrea who I look up to, my Sug Gunny who inspires me, my nieces Quinn and Jade, and my beloved Pop-Pop.
A special shoutout to my entire family, the BYRDS. I am who I am because of them.
I also want to recognize Dr. Monique Gary, DO, MSc, FACS, FSSO, an amazing breast surgeon with a heart of gold. Her vision for providing wellness, Still Rise Farms, for all people is truly inspiring. She is the BEST!
A shoutout to Sue Weldon and Unite for HER, an incredible organization that provides integrative services to breast and ovarian cancer patients.
Lastly, a loving shoutout to Live Like Lukas, Inc., and beautiful nonprofit organization dedicated to eradicating pediatric cancer while funding research and helping families deal with the devastating impact of this horrific disease.
Each one of you is a blessing and I am grateful for your presence in my life! God is good!
Website: https://www.drniaimanibailey.com/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/drniimani?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nia.i.bailey?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Other: https://www.agapenonprofit.org/ https://www.niabaileybooks.com/