Service Magazine - Women’s History Month Edition This Women’s History Month, Service Magazine is proud to honor the resilience, brilliance, and tenacity of women with a special issue dedicated to health, leadership, and empowerment. 🌸 Cervical Cancer Awareness: Learn about the latest advancements in prevention, early detection, and treatment, along with powerful survivor stories that inspire hope. 💼 Exemplary Leadership: We spotlight women who are breaking barriers, leading with innovation, and setting new standards in industries where female voices are transforming the landscape. 💪 Surviving Endometriosis & Brain Cancer: Two courageous journeys of women battling chronic illness while reclaiming their lives and purpose. Discover the strength behind their stories and how they advocate for others facing similar struggles. 📈 Getting Your Business Certified: A step-by-step guide to navigating the process of becoming a certified women-owned business. Learn how this certification can open doors to funding, contracts, and networking opportunities. 🎤 A Tribute to Angie Stone: Celebrating the legacy of the legendary singer, songwriter, and trailblazer in soul and R&B. We explore her impact on music, culture, and the generations of artists she has influenced. This issue is a powerful testament to the strength, success, and struggles that shape women’s history. Join us in celebrating the voices that continue to change the world!
What’s Inside Readers Welcome: Dear Readers By Dr. Roselyn V. Aker-Black Tribute to Angie Stone Iconic Exemplary Leader in the Arts: Nicci Gilbert- Daniels Women’s History Month Feature: Profiles in Exemplary Leadership How Much Can One Woman Take? From Stage IV Endometriosis to a Brain Tumor, Natalie A. Solomon Keeps Fighting and Thriving The BYBD SuperYou™️ SuperSwap: 3 Simple Swaps to Keep You Motivated in 2025 Organization Highlights: The Terance Madden Foundation Exposure Matters: Jumping with the Power of Minority Certifications CANCER! Now that I Have Your Attention, Let’s Talk About Cervical Cancer Service Shout Outs: Advertisements Service Staff
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DEAR READERS,
As we step into Women’s History Month, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible impact women have had on shaping our world. Throughout history, women have been powerful forces of change, leading revolutions, pioneering new ideas, and breaking barriers. From the courageous voices of activists fighting for justice to the innovators who’ve sparked progress in every field, women have consistently shown resilience, creativity, and leadership that has transformed our societies for the better. This month, we celebrate not only the trailblazers of the past, but also the women who continue to inspire us today. Their stories remind us that empowerment comes from within, and that no matter the obstacles, we all have the capacity to make a difference. As we honor their achievements, let us also reflect on our own potential and the ways we can contribute to building a more equitable and inclusive future for everyone.
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OLIVIA WILSON PUBLISHING
DEAR READERS,
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you, our readers, for your unwavering support. Your commitment to the stories we share and the conversations we spark allows us to continue amplifying voices that deserve to be heard. You are an essential part of this community, and together, we are creating a space where women’s experiences and accomplishments are recognized and celebrated year-round. Let’s keep lifting each other up, sharing our stories, and continuing to empower one another to achieve greatness. The journey toward equality and opportunity is ongoing, and with your support, we will keep moving forward, stronger together.
With gratitude and excitement,
Dr. Roselyn Aker-Black Founder & Editor-in-Chief Extraordinary Service Magazine
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Angie Stone A Tribute to SERVICE MAGAZINE 5
Excerpts from AP News, “Tributes pour in for R&B singer Angie Stone after her death at 63 in a highway crash” MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Fans are remembering the voice and songs of trailblazer Angie Stone after her death at 63 in a weekend crash on an Alabama highway as she traveled from a performance. The Grammy-nominated R&B singer was a member of the all-female hip- hop trio The Sequence and known for the hit song “Wish I Didn’t Miss You.” She found a sweet spot in the early 2000s as neo-soul began to dominate R&B. The Alabama Highway Patrol said the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van that Stone was traveling in overturned on Interstate 65 early Saturday before being hit by a 2021 Freightliner Cascadia truck. Stone was pronounced dead at the scene, the highway patrol said in a statement. The crash occurred about 5 miles (8 kilometers) south of the Montgomery city limits. The van’s driver and seven others were taken to a hospital for treatment. Officials continue to investigate the crash.
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Collaborating with strategic partners, Mrs. Wilkins effectively connected the narrative of Fela! to Atlanta’s civil rights history, engaging influential figures such as Mayor Kasim Reed, local celebrities, and Fela Ambassador Ludacris Bridges. Glam Concierge, The Booking Agency, a service that manages backstage productions for the fashion, film, and music industries, with offices in Atlanta, New York, and Los Angeles. After years in the beauty and wellness sector, she and her husband closed their premier salon, The International Style Bar, LLC, which catered to an international clientele. Mrs. Wilkins also heads As part of her growing portfolio, Mrs. Wilkins has expanded her Legendary Awards brand, which received a Proclamation from the City of Atlanta for its pioneering contributions to the entertainment industry. Through the Legendary Awards Foundation (LEGENDARYGIVES), she promotes community wellness initiatives, including the Legendary Health Initiative and an annual 5K Walk.
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The singer-songwriter created hits like “No More Rain (In This Cloud)” which reached No. 1 for 10 weeks on Billboard’s Adult R&B airplay chart, “Baby” with legendary soul singer Betty Wright, another No. 1 hit, and “Wish I Didn’t Miss You” and “Brotha.” Her 2001 album “Mahagony Soul” reached No. 22 on the Billboard 200, while 2007’s “The Art Of Love & War” peaked at No. 11. The church-grown singer was born in Columbia, South Carolina. She helped form The Sequence, the first all-female group on the hip-hop trailblazing imprint Sugar Hill Records, becoming one of the first female groups to record a rap song. The group’s “Funk You Up,” which has been sampled by numerous artists, including Dr. Dre. Stone later joined the trio Vertical Hold before launching her solo career.
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority mourned the loss of their sorority sister.
“Renowned for her contributions to the R&B and neo-soul genres, Stone’s music has resonated with fans for decades,” the sorority said in a statement, remembering her diabetes awareness efforts and work with the sorority’s Elder Care initiatives and Zetas Helping Other People Excel.
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Stone Angie
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Stone Angie
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ICONIC EXEMPLARY LEADER IN THE ARTS NICCI GILBERT-DANIELS
Nicci Gilbert-Daniels, founding member of the Grammy nominated group Brownstone, is one of entertainment’s most sought after executive producers and creatives. As the CEO of WIRF MEDIA , an entertainment media company, WIRF aims to change the negative and toxic narratives about minority women
through the creation of a national infrastruct- ure that
provides female content creators with platforms and resources to create, own and distribute content that not only entertains, but also uplifts, educates, informs and inspires. Nicci created TV One’s most popular docu- franchise, “R&B Divas”, and the popular BET networks series , “From the Bottom Up” and her upcoming Documentary Film “Broken Things.”
Nicci’s intense passion for all that she does, effortlessly manifests itself in her many accomplish- ments, including deals and partnerships with the legendary Michael Jackson MJJ Records, super producer Tyler Perry, and television mogul Queen Latifah. Nicci is a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated.
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Nicci’s business and philanthropic achievements have garnered recognition from a variety of prestigious awards, including two Grammy nominations, BET Her Woman Of Impact, Lincoln Shining Star, InfluenceHER Awards and the Billboard Music Awards. In addition to all of her accolades, Nicci is the founder of The From The Bottom Up Foundation and she currently serves as a board member for the following organizations: Hip Hop Sisters , Beyond the Game Foundation and The Center for Black Women’s Wellness, Nicci is the true definition of a multi hyphenate career woman. She is a singer-writer-producer-actress-speaker- designer-philanthropist, in addition to a positive image advocate. With Nicci’s commitment to her career overshadowed only by her devotion to her husband, daughter and new grandson, she has proven that with perseverance, hard work and dedication, the world is possible. NICCI GILBERT-DANIELS ICONIC EXEMPLARY LEADER IN THE ARTS
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Exemplary Leader: Johnetta Boseman Hardy, MA
Johnetta Hardy is a visionary leader with over 25 years dedicated to transforming communities through entrepreneurship. As the founding Executive Director of Bowie State University’s Entrepreneurship Innovation Center (EIC), she has cultivated a dynamic hub for innovation, equipping students with the tools to turn bold ideas into successful ventures. Under her leadership, the EIC was honored with the 2024 Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers (GCEC) Outstanding Emerging Entrepreneurship Center Award, a testament to its national impact in fostering entrepreneurial excellence. She is also the founder and chair of the Annual HBCU+ Entrepreneurship Conference, a premier event driving innovation and economic empowerment.
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Visionary Leader: Johnetta Boseman Hardy
Dr. Joanne Frederick A seasoned entrepreneur, Johnetta has founded four companies and mentored over 3,000 businesses. Her thought leadership is featured in Annals of Entrepreneurship Education and Pedagogy, The Black Experience, and Navigating Higher Education through a Virtual World. She has led three university-based entrepreneurship centers, previously serving as Executive Director of Howard University’s Entrepreneurship Center and Executive Director of the University of Baltimore’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. Johnetta’s influence extends through her service on esteemed boards, including the Global Consortium for Entrepreneurship Centers and the University System of Maryland's Economic Development Practice Partners. She also co-founded the Centers & Institutes Entrepreneurship Group for the United States Association of Small Business and Entrepreneurship. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, she was named one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women for 2024 and 2016. She received the HBCU Entrepreneurship Legacy Award from the National Entrepreneurship Center during the Black Wealth Conference hosted by Howard University and PNC. With credentials from Harvard Business School, Howard University, and the Entrepreneurship Learning Initiative, Johnetta continues to drive innovation, entrepreneurial growth, and community impact.
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Exemplary Leader: Sharrarne Morton
Sharrarne Morton is a media maven , entrepreneur, and advocate for empowerment and equity. As the CEO of Morton Media, she has produced and hosted compelling content that uplifts diverse voices and tackles pressing societal issues. With a passion for storytelling, Sharrarne hosts a SiriusXM radio show where she engages with thought leaders, industry experts, and changemakers, providing listeners with valuable insights on topics ranging from entrepreneurship to mental health and social justice. Her innovative approach to media has established her as a trusted voice and influential figure in the communications industry.
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Dr. Joanne Frederick In addition to her media accomplishments, Sharrarne is the founder of the Black Door Society, a membership-based organization designed to empower Black entrepreneurs, leaders, and creatives. The society fosters collaboration, offers mentorship, and provides members with access to unique opportunities to advance their careers and businesses. Through this platform, Sharrarne has created a thriving ecosystem of support and resources, helping to break down barriers and open doors for success within the Black community.
Sharrarne’s career is defined by her commitment to making a meaningful impact.
Whether through media, community building, or advocacy, she is dedicated to creating pathways for others to excel and achieve their goals.
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Exemplary Leader: Rebera Foston, M.D. MPH, MATS, DMin
Dr. Rebera Foston is an ordained minister, a retired Ephebiatrician, (a physician who only treats teenagers) and a Holistic Mentor. She is the author of 24 published works and recently completed 20 additional books of poetry which brings her Master collection of poetry to 40 volumes. Her most famous poem to date is entitled “ You Don’t Live on My Street,”. It turns thirty-five years old and is still attracting fans and helping teens win their campus queen titles. Dr. Foston was born and raised in Gary, IN and is a 1970 Magna Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa Graduate of Fisk University. She is also a 1974 graduate of Meharry Medical college and received her master’s in public health from UNC, Chapel Hill in 1981. She completed her Residency in Family Practice in 1984 and became a Board-Certified Family Practitioner with her emphasis in Adolescent Health. That same year she received her Post Doctorate in Teaching Family Medicine from Michigan State. In 1988 she became the first female Health Commissioner of Gary. She simultaneously received her Master of Arts in theological Studies and her Doctorate in Ministry from United Theological Seminary in 1999. She became ordained in 2001.
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Dr. Joanne Frederick Dr. Foston has dedicated her entire professional life to working with teenagers. In her role as the Executive Director of the Foston Institute for Holistic Mentoring. She has been committed to brokering for teens medically, psychologically and now spiritually. She has guided thousands of teens to write three original musicals, 18 television episodes, and taught them to latch hook a 25 sq yd tapestry that says Don’t Do Drugs. Some of her teens have gone on to become Grammy-nominated, and Broadway performers. One of her teens starred in Tyler Perry’s first successful stage play. Dr. Foston has also produced two full-length feature movies, several Readers Theaters, and a video poetry album, and two movie soundtracks. In her role as the Executive Director of the Foston Institute for Holistic Mentoring. While serving as the CEO and Board Chair the past two years, Dr Foston has devoted her time and energy to starting the Foston Foundation, a 501c3. Its mission is to train caring adults to become GUIDES who can escort at-risk youth through the hazardous journey from adolescence to adulthood. They are also being trained to find and nurture gifts in any teen, while steering them around the common pitfalls of adolescence. Dr. Foston has designed fun-filled training weekend in late September for its third annual GUIDEs Training Class, in Clarksville, TN. It includes 16 hours of didactics and concludes with an Escape Room Exercise where participants must assist a troubled youth before they can complete the training. She has worked tirelessly on the foundation with the goal of sharing her well-honed techniques of working successfully with youth with a caring community who will hopefully carry on her legacy. The Foundation has a seven-member Board of Directors whose combined expertise in mentoring youth is over 120 years.
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Dr. Joanne Frederick Dr Foston is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and while she served as President of the Clarksville Alumnae Chapter, she became a charter member of the NPHC of Clarksville. She is married to Dr. Will Foston, a retired surgeon and ER Physician from Clarksville, and a 1967 graduate of Austin Peay State University, and a 1972 graduate of Meharry. They have two Howard University trained sons and three granddaughters. Her two older granddaughters are also Howard University trained and represent the fifth generation of HBCU graduates and Dr. Foston’s Family.
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Exemplary Leader: LaVonne A. Browne, PhD
Dr. LaVonne A. Browne is a dedicated psychologist, educator, and advocate for mental health awareness and multicultural inclusion. A native of Berrien Springs, Michigan, she has built a distinguished career rooted in counseling psychology, with a special focus on supporting underrepresented communities. Dr. Browne’s academic journey began at Oakwood University (formerly Oakwood College), a historically Black Seventh-day Adventist institution, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She went on to obtain her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Her professional path has been shaped by a deep commitment to service, guided by her Christian faith. She began her career at Penn State University, counseling and advising minority college students. This early experience reinforced her belief in the power of mentorship and the importance of instilling confidence in others. She later joined the University of West Florida (UWF) as a Staff Psychologist and Clinical Supervisor, where she not only provided therapeutic support but also served on the President’s Advisory Board and collaborated with the Campus Ministries Co-operative, integrating faith-based principles into her work in mental health advocacy.
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Dr. Joanne Frederick Dr. Browne continued her service at George Mason University, where she took on multiple leadership roles, including Associate Director of Multicultural Services, Staff Psychologist, and Chair of the Diversity Committee. She also directed the Peer Empowerment Program, a groundbreaking initiative designed to support minority college students, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to inclusivity and socioemotional development of others. Throughout her career, Dr. Browne has led numerous workshops on topics such as self-esteem, depression, anxiety, spirituality in counseling, body image and eating disorders, interpersonal relationships, and suicide awareness and prevention. A passionate advocate for reducing the stigma around mental health—especially within minority communities—she views her work as both a professional calling and a ministry. Her faith has been the foundation of her counseling philosophy, emphasizing compassion, hope, and the belief that healing is possible for all. Currently, Dr. Browne serves as the Chair of the Department of Psychology and Counseling at Washington Adventist University, where she continues to inspire students and future mental health professionals. She also co-owns a private practice with her husband, Dr. Colin Browne, whom she married in 1998. Together, they have raised two children, Colin Jr. (21) and Avery (18), and remain deeply involved in their church community. In her personal life, Dr. Browne enjoys cooking, reading, exercising, and spending time with her family. She draws strength from her faith, which has been the guiding principle in both her personal and professional journey, reinforcing her mission to serve, uplift, and empower others through psychology and ministry.
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Exemplary Leader: Rulonda Green, PhD
Dr. Rulonda Green is a dedicated educator with a remarkable 25-year journey in the field of education. Currently serving as the Head of School of a thriving PK-8th elementary school in New Orleans, Louisiana. In 2023, her school was recognized for being in the Top 20% of the State for its increase in Mastery on Leap2025 with 5 percentage point increase from 2022-2023. Additionally, her school was one of seven schools in the city (17%) to exceed its Pre-Covid percent mastery performance when comparing Leap 2023 data to 2019 Leap data. This success continued into the 2004 school year with her school being recognized for two years straight as a Top Gains School in the state of Louisiana. She has consistently demonstrated her passion for shaping young minds and building self-efficacy in her students, faculty, and staff. Dr. Green’s mantra is G.P.A Matters; which stands for Growth, Perseverance, and Attainment. Dr. Green’s educational journey began in her hometown of New Orleans, where she proudly graduated from Xavier University Preparatory High School. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science degree in sociology with teacher certification at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. Driven by her commitment to educational leadership, she remained in Nashville and pursued a master’s degree in Educational Leadership at Trevecca Nazarene University.
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Dr. Joanne Frederick throughout the program yielded numerous awards, but her greatest recognition was the Dissertation of the Year Award for demonstrating analytical acumen to the highest degree. Additionally, in 2023, Dr. Green was bestowed with the prestigious Distinguished Trailblazer Alumni Award by the Education Department at the University of Holy Cross, recognizing her unwavering dedication to fostering academic excellence in her school and nurturing community partnerships. After completing her master’s program, Dr. Green returned to her roots in New Orleans, embarking on a fulfilling career in education. In 2021, she achieved a significant milestone by earning a doctorate in Executive Leadership from the University of Holy Cross. Her leadership and academic prowess Dr. Green’s wealth of knowledge and leadership skills have made her a valuable addition to the Elan Academy Board of Directors in Algiers, Louisiana. She is enthusiastic about contributing to the ongoing success in the realm of education and development in her community, making her a true beacon of inspiration in the field of education and executive leadership.
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Exemplary Leader: Priscilla Cole
Priscilla Cole is a passionate, lifelong educator who believes every student can be prepared for college, career and beyond when they receive effective, relevant learning that is personalized to their specific needs. It was during her first year in the profession that her students taught her an important lesson. “Establishing positive relationships and being genuine are the building blocks to the success of any group or organization.” During her 24 years in education, she has had the opportunity to serve and lead in many capacities. Currently, she serves as an Executive Director of Schools in one of the nation’s largest urban preK- 12 districts with160 schools and 80,000+ students. She coaches and supervises high school principals who lead a variety of traditional and specialty high schools offering advanced academics, industry certifications, dual enrollment and early college. She has served as a principal of a comprehensive high school with over 2200 students, as an assistant principal at a diverse high school with community based instructional program for students with disabilities, a behavior specialist and a middle school math teacher in urban school districts.
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Dr. Joanne Frederick In her downtime, she enjoys traveling, cooking, watching movies and spending time with her family and friends. She lives by the motto, “the impossible is possible!” Audrey Hepburn said it best, “nothing is impossible because the word itself says, “I’m possible!” These varied experiences have allowed her to fortify her instructional leadership, management and organizational skills in various settings within education.As an instructional leader, she embraces change and can quickly assess situations and adapt appropriately.
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Exemplary Leader: Sonja Sherrer, M.Ed.
Sonja Sherrer, M.Ed., is a dedicated educator with a deep-rooted passion for supporting learners of all ages. With 20 years of experience mentoring youth in educational goal setting and nine years in K-12 education, she has served as a teacher, librarian, campus administrator, and International Baccalaureate coordinator. As the grandchild and child of K-12 educators, Sonja brings a generational commitment to learning, with a strong focus on social-emotional development and restorative practices. Most recently, she has expanded her impact by teaching adult ESL at the community college level, continuing her mission to foster growth and opportunity for diverse learners.
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Exemplary Leader: Dana B. Labat, M.A., Ph.D.
Dr. Labat is a licensed clinical psychologist who practices in both Louisiana and Texas. She maintains an active therapy practice and often speaks around the country on a variety of mental health and well-being topics. Dr. Labat’s areas of specialty include supporting older adolescents and adults with navigating everyday life stressors. Additionally, she specializes in supporting women’s emotional health across the lifespan including reproductive health and pregnancy loss. Furthermore, she helps couples in their search for improved communication and connection within their relationship. Beyond direct clinical practice, Dr. Labat collaborates with the national digital weight loss program, Wondr Health, to support over 20,000 participants in their journey to lose weight in a healthy and holistic way based in science and psychology. She is also developing a program for women walking through the divorce process and rebuilding their identities. Lastly, Dr. Labat partners with adolescents and adults across the life span to build thriving lives centered on honoring their values through committed action.
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Exemplary Leader: Michelle Grigsby-Hackett
Michelle is a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit behavioral health sector. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRP), she brings a wealth of expertise to her work in clinical practice, executive coaching, and nonprofit business development. Michelle has a strong focus on enhancing mental health services and guiding leadership teams toward greater impact. A recognized speaker and thought leader in behavioral health and minority leadership, Michelle is also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, through which she continues her commitment to community service. Michelle holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Arizona State University and a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Argosy University. Her career has been dedicated to supporting individuals and families facing mental health challenges, substance use, and behavioral health crises. As the first African American and woman to lead the organization, Michelle is committed to understanding community needs and forging partnerships with state and local stakeholders to address the growing demands of individuals living with behavioral health conditions and those in crisis.
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Exemplary Leader: Dr. Beverly Gordon
Dr. Beverly Gordon lives in Pennsylvania, USA. She has lived for significant periods of time in England and the United States of America. She is a loyal citizen of the United States with a deeply rooted Jamaican heritage of which she is very proud. She is currently Chair of the Department of Psychology at Delaware State University in Delaware. Dr. Gordon earned her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Immaculata University, her master’s degree in counseling psychology from Immaculata University, and her bachelor’s degree in nursing education from Northern Caribbean University. She held various positions in Nursing from 1978 to 2003, Behavioral Health from 1999 – present, and Higher Education from 2008 to present. She worked as a Registered Nurse in Jamaica, California, Michigan, and Pennsylvania over the She then worked with children and adolescents as a therapist with Devereux foundation for about seven years. After earning her doctoral degree, Dr. Gordon served for eight years as Assistant professor, then Associate Professor and Chair of Social Sciences at DeVry University.
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Dr. Joanne Frederick She went on to serve as Associate Professor at Washington Adventist University. She later returned to full time clinical work with Crozer-Keystone Health System where she worked with children and adolescents, treating a broad spectrum of mental health disorders; collaborating with school districts in Delaware County, Pennsylvania to provide optimum mental health support for high risk students and facilitate their re-entry into regular schooling after discharge from inpatient or partial hospitalization. Dr. Gordon established her private practice in Pennsylvania, while teaching as an Adjunct Psychology Professor at Washington Adventist University in Takoma Park, Maryland., and adjunct Professor in the School of Graduate Psychology at Chestnut Hill College. In 2022, Dr. Gordon returned to Washington Adventist University as Professor and Chair of the Psychology and Counseling Department in 2022. Dr. Gordon is a published author. Her book, Native Foreigner addresses acculturation stress, the impact of acculturation stress on personality development and protective factors for building resilience that foster sound mental health for Black immigrants to the United States. She has authored and co- authored devotionals for women and articles for professional journals such as the International Humanities Review and International Perspectives on psychology.
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Visionary Leader: Johnetta Boseman Hardy
Dr. Joanne Frederick Counseling Association (ACA), National Register of Health Service Psychologists, Psi Chi, American Educational Research Association (AERA), and Association of Black Psychologists. She is a reviewer for The Counseling Psychologist, published by American Psychological Association. She has served as reviewer for American Education Research Association and National Council on Family Relationships. Dr. Gordon is a dynamic speaker who has presented at various venues in the United States, Canada, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. One of her greatest enjoyment is to engage people in vibrant learning experiences that are transformative for her audience and herself. Dr. Gordon is an active member of various professional organizations such as American Psychological Association (APA), American Dr. Gordon is involved and active in her church and community. She was Co-Chair of the Behavioral Health Taskforce 2019 – 2020, and Chair of the Health Taskforce within Jamaica Diaspora Taskforce Action Network, 2020 – 2022. She currently serves on the Women’s Commission of Montgomery County in Pennsylvania. She serves as coordinator for the Family Life Ministry at her church.
Dr. Gordon is a committed Christian with a passion for fostering strong human relationships.
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Dr. Joanne Frederick She candidly admits to a lifelong Christian philosophy that guides her work and values. She has a passion for enriching the lives of families, and a deep respect and love for young people. She has a rich background of multicultural exposure in her personal and professional life, and these experiences have translated into a delight and enthusiasm for working with people from diverse cultural, socio- economic, and religious groups. Dr. Gordon is the proud parent, along with her husband of 45 years, of two fine adult sons. Of all her accomplishments, her most treasured titles are wife, mother, daughter, and friend.
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Wardiere Inc.
HOW MUCH CAN ONE WOMAN TAKE? From Stage IV Endometriosis to a Brain Tumor, Natalie A. Solomon Keeps Fighting and Thriving by William Croyle, Endometriosis Foundation of America About five years ago, Natalie A. Solomon paused amid her decades of traumatic health issues and asked the question so many in her situation have asked: God, what do you want from me? The answer may lie in her own words on her website: Helping others unlock their potential and lead fulfilling lives. That personal mission led Solomon to contact EndoFound to share her remarkable story of suffering and resilience.
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POSTED ON FEB 11, 2025
HOW MUCH CAN ONE WOMAN TAKE?
“I don’t want to look like what I’ve been through, but that doesn’t mean I can’t be disheveled either,” Solomon said. “You have to find that happy medium and persevere. Find your support networks and be kind to yourself. I’m living with endo and thriving with it as well.”
Solomon’s pain began 38 years ago with her first menstrual cycle. She was 10.
“It was horrible. My cycles were always horrible,” she said. “My father would have to pick me up from school. I’d throw up and be incapacitated for a week. I had to drag myself everywhere because the pain was surreal.”
This continued every month throughout middle school, high school, and college.
“I don’t want to look like what I’ve been through, but that doesn’t mean I can’t be disheveled either,”
“I was 19 and woke up one night in excruciating pain. My boyfriend at the time had to rush me to the emergency room,” Solomon said. “At first, they thought it was my appendix, but a transvaginal ultrasound showed I had 15 to 20 cysts, and two of them had ruptured.” She had her first excision surgery in 1997. Doctors removed 17 cysts from her ovaries and found stage IV endometriosis throughout her body, but the operation did little to ease her pain. Solomon had a second surgery two years later.
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HOW MUCH CAN ONE WOMAN TAKE?
“The endometriosis had grown back everywhere between those surgeries. It was attached to my bowel, kidney, bladder—everything was stuck together,” she said. The mental agony Solomon went through then and for the next twenty-plus years was as taxing as the physical pain. It started with the doctor who diagnosed her with endometriosis—he told her she should have a hysterectomy because she’d likely never carry a baby to term. She ignored his advice. “He was so callous,” Solomon said. “The way he said it was very matter-of-fact. I was only 19, and to be told that I couldn’t have children was soul-crushing.” As the years progressed, she’d see nearly 20 OBGYNs in a search for answers. Each one diagnosed her with something new or came up with an excuse for her pain, despite Solomon telling them from the start that she had endometriosis. “Many of them were very harsh,” Solomon said. “Some of them dismissed my pain by telling me it was in my head. Others told me I had irritable bowel syndrome. One was more interested in using me for his research and treated me like a petri dish. Another accused me of having pelvic inflammatory disease from sexually transmitted infections. I had myself checked for STIs, and when I verified and told them I didn’t have any, they said, ‘Well, that’s probably what it is.’”
“Some of them dismissed
my pain by telling me it was in my head.”
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HOW MUCH CAN ONE WOMAN TAKE?
She was prescribed Lupron after her first surgery, unaware of the potentially grim side effects. Solomon struggled to put into words how horrible of an experience Lupron was, which caused her to have to leave school for an extended time. “Imagine being a sophomore in college and going through menopause while still recovering from endometriosis surgery?” she said. Solomon said things were “okay-ish but not great” after her second surgery. The pain was still intense and led to a third surgery in 2003. “Everything was attached to everything else—it all went right back to where it was,” she said. “I was in Pittsburgh then for a fellowship while applying to grad school. My dad, sister, and one of my best friends at the time piled into my apartment to help me recover.” The pain diminished during recovery but was still there. “I graduated from grad school in 2006, and my flare-ups started again. That’s when I had surgery number four,” Solomon said. “My surgeon told me I had two tiny fibroids growing, one of my fallopian tubes was blocked, and it was time to start discussing my fertility. He said if I wanted to get pregnant, I had to do it sooner rather than later.”
“Imagine being a sophomore in college and going through menopause while still recovering from endometriosis surgery?”
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HOW MUCH CAN ONE WOMAN TAKE?
Solomon wasn’t dating anyone and didn’t have the money to harvest her eggs. “This was overwhelming for me,” she said. “I was in the beginning stages of my career at this point. I thought, What am I supposed to do with all this?” Solomon’s health would only become more complicated over the next 15 years. She began to have sinus issues, which would result in three sinus surgeries and a hormone for treatment that happened to fuel the growth of her fibroids. Her gall bladder ruptured—unbeknownst to her until she got to the hospital—which required surgery that was more complicated than usual because of the endometriosis and scar tissue from previous surgeries. “After the gall bladder surgery, they asked me how I didn’t know from the pain that my gall bladder had ruptured. They said if I’d waited any longer to go to the hospital, I would have died. I said, ‘Because I have stage IV endometriosis. I’m always in pain.’” In 2018, soon after one of her sinus surgeries, Solomon lost her peripheral vision on her right side. She saw a neurologist, who found a brain tumor. She chuckles today at the absurdity of one person having so many health issues at once, none of them brought on by her lifestyle or anything she’d done.
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HOW MUCH CAN ONE WOMAN TAKE?
“It was like, ‘Oh by the way, you have a brain tumor, too,’” she said.
At this time, she also revisited her fertility issue since she’d married in 2014. A clinic told her she had a year to harvest her eggs. “We had just built a house and had no money to harvest and store my eggs,” Solomon said. “Concurrently, I was dealing with endometriosis, a brain tumor, and sinus issues. That’s when I knew I wasn’t going to be able to have kids. It was horrible. Infertility sucks.” In 2019, with her fibroids growing and now diagnosed with adenomyosis, she had a hysterectomy. It was supposed to be an outpatient surgery. “They botched it,” Solomon said. “They were supposed to cut my fallopian tubes, but the tubes had moved up so high because of the endometriosis that they cut my ureter instead. It ended up being an eight-hour surgery to try to fix the ureter. The fix didn’t work as planned. It caused significant health issues for the next year and a half, including three bouts with sepsis that nearly killed Solomon. She also had to have two more unsuccessful corrective surgeries to stabilize her bladder and kidney due to the botched hysterectomy in 2020, and then her brain surgery in 2021—everything complicated by Covid restrictions.
“It was like, ‘Oh by the way, you have a brain tumor, too,’” she said.
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HOW MUCH CAN ONE WOMAN TAKE?
“The brain surgery was successful,” Solomon said. “They didn’t get it all. I was in ICU for three weeks, was out of work for a year, and had to learn again how to walk and write my name. But it was successful to the extent that now I go back just once a year for a brain scan.” Solomon has returned to her job of 16 years as a public health analyst for the federal government. In addition, she runs a women’s lifestyle company that focuses on wellness and empowerment. She’s also a lecturer and author, co-hosts a podcast, and has a TEDx competition in February. And her next appointment to figure out what to do about her endometriosis is coming up, along with her next brain scan. She admits that she doesn’t even know the source of her daily pain anymore. She just perseveres. “It's been a journey,” Solomon said. “I want women to know that it’s okay not to be okay. Endo and the other problems it’s caused have almost killed me a few times, but don’t ever succumb to it. I’ve been there on the floor, asking God why. It’s heart-wrenching and traumatizing, but it’s okay for there to be days when you can’t do anything. It’s okay to just get through the next few seconds. Find people to support you, give yourself grace, and realize how much of a warrior you are.”
“I want women to know that it’s okay not to be okay. Endo and the other problems it’s caused have almost killed
me a few times, but don’t ever succumb to it.”
To learn more about Natalie A. Solomon, visit natalieasolomon.com.
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ABOUT THE SUBJECT
Ms. Natalie A. Solomon is a speaker, best-selling author, and facilitator whose diverse career weaves together public health, women's health advocacy, and creative entrepreneurship. With a deep understanding of women's reproductive health, particularly endometriosis, and a focus on cultural humility, Ms. Solomon approaches healthcare delivery with empathy and inclusivity. Her extensive experience coordinating public health initiatives, including the expansion of HIV/AIDS programs like the Ryan White Program, underscores her commitment to improving health outcomes for underserved communities. As the founder and Event Stylist behind Meraki Life & Style L.L.C., she transforms ordinary events into extraordinary experiences. Her expertise in creating sacred, mindful spaces for relaxation, self-care, and rejuvenation reflects her passion for holistic well-being. In her role as a speaker and facilitator, Ms. Solomon engages audiences on topics such as reproductive health, wellness, and cultural humility, addressing microaggressions, mindfulness, and vision journaling. She provides tailored consultations to organizations seeking to foster inclusive, supportive environments. Ms. Solomon's academic background in Public Health, Psychology, and Africana Studies, along with her professional experience at the Department of Health and Human Services, positions her as a leading advocate for women's health, particularly within the Black community. Her affiliations with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and the Black Door Society further reflect her dedication to community empowerment and public health. Through her multi-faceted roles, Ms. Solomon embodies leadership and inspiration, empowering individuals and communities to thrive—always reminding them to 'Secure Your Oxygen Mask First.'
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Let’s be real: motivation is easy to come by on January 1st. New year, fresh start, all the resolutions lined up like a Pinterest board of your dream life. But what happens when February rolls in, the novelty fades, and suddenly, your goals feel more like chores than choices? If you’ve ever felt that dip in motivation, you’re not alone. It’s not because you lack discipline, willpower, or the “right plan,” it’s because most of us are conditioned to think of health and wellness as something we have to get ready for instead of something we can just DO. I remember a client, let’s call her “Lisa,” who was all in on her fitness goals. She bought the gear, downloaded the apps, and mapped out the perfect routine. But by March, she felt overwhelmed, stuck in a cycle of waiting for the right moment. “I need to meal prep first.” “I should start Monday.” “I want to work out, but I only have 10 minutes…” Sound familiar? Lisa was trapped in the all or nothing mindset that keeps so many of us from making real progress. But here’s the truth: Motivation isn’t something you find. It’s something you create. And it doesn’t come from perfect conditions, it comes from small, intentional actions that remind you that you are already in motion. SuperYou™ SuperSwap: 3 Simple Swaps to Keep You Motivated in 2025 By: Kolawolé (aka KUTlmack.) Kuti
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SuperYou™ SuperSwap: 3 Simple Swaps to Keep You Motivated in 2025
So, for Women’s Month, I’m giving you three powerful SuperSwaps that will keep you motivated and moving towards being your best in 2025. These aren’t about working harder or adding more to your plate. They’re about making smarter choices that keep you progressing without the burnout.
SuperSwap #1: Swap Perfection for Action
You don’t need a full hour, the best workout plan, or the perfect meal prep to start being healthier right now. The real game-changer? Ask yourself:
What can I do in the next 2-4 minutes that will make me healthier?
Maybe it’s twelve 10-second deep breaths. Maybe it’s standing up and sitting back down for 3 minutes. Maybe it’s stretching. Maybe it’s grabbing a glass of water instead of another coffee. Maybe it’s taking the stairs or a lap around your office between meetings. These tiny shifts may seem insignificant, but the power isn’t in the size of the action, it’s in the act of choosing yourself. Most people wait for the perfect time to start, but life doesn’t work like that. Perfection is a myth, and waiting for it only keeps you stuck. Instead, choose progress. Choose action. Choose yourself.
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SuperYou™ SuperSwap: 3 Simple Swaps to Keep You Motivated in 2025
SuperSwap #2: Swap Intensity for Consistency
Tell me if this sounds familiar: You finally get back into working out, and your first instinct is to go all in: hour-long workouts, hardcore meal plans, pushing yourself to exhaustion. But by week three? You’re burnt out, sore, and dreading the thought of another workout. Here’s a radical idea: What if you didn’t have to push to your max every time? What if, instead, you built a floor; a baseline habit that’s so doable you know you can keep it up, no matter what? Maybe that means committing to just 10 minutes of movement daily. Or one serving of veggies at every meal. Or five minutes of stretching before bed. The goal isn’t to max out every session, it’s to build habits so solid that skipping them feels weird. And here’s the magic: Once that baseline is locked in, the winner in you will naturally start leveling up. You’ll crave more. You’ll push harder because you want to, not because you feel like you have to.
Consistency > Intensity. Every time.
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SuperYou™ SuperSwap: 3 Simple Swaps to Keep You Motivated in 2025
SuperSwap #3: Swap Struggle for Support
Let’s get one thing straight: You don’t have to do this alone.
One of the biggest lies we tell ourselves is that we need to figure it out before we ask for help. But listen: your health, your wellness, your journey? That’s my life’s work. I spend my days creating simple, effective, and natural ways to help you be your best, and it would be a waste if you didn’t take advantage of that. So, let me make this easy for you: If you have any questions about juicing, fitness, stress management, whatever…ask me. Message me on social media. Drop a comment. Send a DM. My knowledge isn’t just for me; it’s for you. You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to be willing to reach out. Your Next Step: Make the SuperSwap Here’s my challenge for you: Pick one of these swaps and put it into action today. Got two minutes? Do something right NOW for your health. Struggling to stay consistent? Set your baseline and commit to just that. Still Feeling stuck? Ask for help. I’ve got you. March is Women’s Month and it’s a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and power within you. And the best way to honor that? By showing up for yourself in small, meaningful ways every single day.
Happy Women’s Month! Now go make the swap.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
From selling millions of records to pushing the power of kale juice is one heck of a pivot. But reinvention is the root of KUTImack's mission. After nearly 2 decades as an exec in the high stakes world of the music business, he built a parallel career aligning with his calling: helping senior-level executives and entrepreneurs conquer stress while supercharging their productivity. KUTI's ease on airwaves and in front of live audiences has made him an internationally demanded expert. He's been dubbed the "Fitness Philosopher" and the "Rockstar Professor" for his ability to share straightforward science-based fitness, all-natural remedies, plus music industry experiences with inspirational solutions that help c-suite executives understand precisely how to be their productive best daily without burning out.
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ORGANIZATION HIGHLIGHTS: THE TERANCE MADDEN FOUNDATION The Terance Madden Foundation Raises $70K at Sold-Out 10th Anniversary Chocolate Gala The Terance Madden Foundation Expands Philanthropy Amid Widespread Funding Cuts, Raising Over $70,000 for Scholarships at the 4th Annual Chocolate Gala
Atlanta, As diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and other educational funding sources face GA — increasing cutbacks under the new administration, philanthropy is stepping up to fill the void. Leading the charge is Attorney Terance Madden and his law firm, T. Madden & Associates, P.C., who are actively expanding scholarship opportunities to ensure that students from underserved communities continue to have access to higher education.
This weekend, Atlanta’s elite gathered in grandeur at Atlanta City Hall’s Atrium to celebrate a decade of impact as the Terance Madden past Foundation marked its 10- year anniversary at the 4th Annual Chocolate Gala —a sold-out affair that raised over $70,000 in scholarship funds for students in need. This elegant evening of philanthropy, fine dining, and live entertainment underscored the urgency of educational funding and the collective responsibility to invest in future leaders.
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A Law Firm Leading the Way in Philanthropy
At the heart of this milestone event was Attorney Terance Madden, Founder of the Terance Madden Foundation and Founder & CEO of T. Madden & Associates, P.C., a premier Georgia personal injury law firm serving clients across the state. While the firm is widely known for securing top compensation for clients in high-stakes legal battles, its commitment to giving back to the community is equally profound. As government-backed DEI programs and other educational funding programs continue to face financial and political headwinds, T. Madden & Associates is stepping up to ensure that the fight for equal opportunity does not falter. By launching new scholarships and strengthening existing initiatives, Attorney Madden is making a statement: education must remain accessible, regardless of political shifts.
A Sold-Out Celebration of Giving & Excellence
With an audience of 250 of Atlanta’s most influential leaders, philanthropists, and professionals, the Chocolate Gala has quickly cemented itself as one of the most sought- after charitable events in the city. This year, the gala reached new heights with an electrifying performance by platinum R&B artist Jon B., whose timeless hits added an extra layer of sophistication and nostalgia to the evening.
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