Barbara Lash – GRAAHI

Exercise Regimes and Benefits for African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease

October 26, 2023 by Barbara Lash

“Unleashing the Power of Exercise in the Fight Against Sickle Cell Disease”
The rhythm of African drums pulsating inthe background, the vibrant energy of a Zumba class in full swing, the serene focus of a yoga session, or the simple joy of a brisk walk in the park – exercise, in its many forms, is a celebration of life and vitality.
For African Americans, particularly those living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), this celebration takes on a profound significance.

SCD, a genetic blood disorder predominantly affecting individuals of African descent, presents unique challenges
that require tailored approaches to exercise and physical activity. This article delves into the world of exercise regimes suitable for mild, moderate, and severe stages of SCD, explores the physical and mental benefits of these activities, and highlights the cultural preferences and body types of African Americans to suggest exercises that resonate with this vibrant community. So, let’s embark on this journey of wellness, strength, and resilience, and discover how exercise can be a powerful ally in managing SCD.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: The Importance of Breast Screening for Women of Color

October 17, 2023 by Barbara Lash

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, and it can affect anyone at any age. However, women of color are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer and dying from the disease.

Statistics on Breast Cancer Rates Among Women of Color

Black women have a 40% higher death rate from breast cancer than white women, even though their incidence rate is slightly lower.
Hispanic women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at a later stage than white women.
Asian women have the lowest incidence rate of breast cancer but are more likely to be diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, which is a more aggressive form of the disease.

Why is Early Detection of Breast Cancer Important?

Early detection of breast cancer is essential for improving survival rates. When breast cancer is found early, it is more treatable and has a better prognosis.

How Does Breast Screening Work?

Breast screening is a series of tests that are used to detect breast cancer early. The most common breast screening tests are mammograms and clinical breast exams.

Mammograms are low-dose X-rays of the breast that can show changes in the breast tissue that may be cancer.
Clinical breast exams are physical exams of the breasts that are performed by a healthcare provider.

Breast Screening for Women of Color

Women of color should talk to their healthcare provider about their individual risk of breast cancer and develop a breast screening plan that is right for them. Some experts recommend that black women start getting mammograms at age 40, instead of the standard age of 50.

Breast Screening Event in Grand Rapids, Michigan

On October 25th, 2023, from 9am to 3pm, there will be a breast screening event at Pilgrim Rest MBC in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The event will feature the mobile mammogram unit from Trinity Health Michigan.

To schedule an appointment for a mammogram at the event, go to https://www.trinityhealthmichigan.org/classes-and-events/mobile-mammography-unit or call 855-559-7179 (Request Mobile Unit > Grand Rapids > Preferred Date & Time)

GRAAHI to Host Inaugural Health Disparities Transformational Summit

September 11, 2023 by Barbara Lash

The Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI) will host its inaugural Health Disparities Transformational Summit on Monday, October 9, 2023, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Calvin College Prince Conference Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The summit aims to shed light on the critical issue of health disparities and gather key stakeholders to explore solutions and create meaningful change in our most vulnerable and marginalized communities. The event will feature a keynote address by civil rights icon Xernona Clayton, as well as panel discussions on a variety of topics related to health disparities in our community. Specifically we will feature discussions about:

Infant/Maternal Health
Health Literacy
Sickle Cell Disease
Trends from GRAAHI’s Health Equity Index
Chronic Diseases: The impact of social issues of poverty, racism. Discrimination
Implicit Bias
and more

“We are excited to host this important summit and bring together a diverse group of leaders to discuss how we can address the challenges of health disparities,” said GRAAHI President and CEO Dr. Vanessa Greene. “This is an opportunity for us to share our experiences, learn from each other, and develop strategies to make a real difference in the lives of our community members.”

The summit is open to professionals, policymakers, researchers, community leaders, and advocates from diverse backgrounds. Tickets are $125 per person and includes lunch. To register, visit graahi.com/summit

Together, we can make a difference!

Rhythm Health Fair Returns August 19th

August 1, 2023 by Barbara Lash

This FREE fun-filled annual event attracts 500+ community members who come together to support healthy lifestyles.

Join the fun with these activities:

Walk around the Park to Support Health Equity
Exercise and fitness training
Mammogram van
Vaccination clinic
Blood pressure, and A1C check-up stations
The YMCA veggie van and over 30 health resource vendors
Prizes and giveaways
Music and Dance
A Kids .1K run
Free Backpacks and School Supplies
Delicious free catered lunch

To learn more go to graahi.com/rhythmrun

Thank you to our sponsors that make FREE community events like this happen:

Platinum

Corewell Health

HealthState of MI

VanAndel Foundation

Gold

Trinity Health

Meijer Corporation

Mercantile Bank

Silver

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Health & Wellness HIV Event

July 3, 2023 by Barbara Lash

Join us July 21st for a Health and Wellness Celebration designed to end the stigma around HIV.

This community health and wellness celebration will bring resources, fun and connection to the community. While ending HIV stigma will be our focus, we brought together a collection of community partners invested in the community from all ranges and reaches! With live entertainment, health services, games, and more want to celebrate GOOD HEALTH with our Grand Rapids family.

The event is FREE and no registration is required.

CROWN Act approved, led by Black Leadership Advisory Council

June 20, 2023 by Barbara Lash

GRAAHI’s director of research, Andrae Ivy serves on the board of the Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC). At GRAAHI we’re proud to join with BLAC in order to support legislation to break down systemic barriers. Read the full news provided by BLAC, and click HERE to read more about the organization and the 11 recommendations they have made to the State of Michigan.

Members of the Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC) joined Gov. Whitmer, Lt. Gov. Gilchrist and Sen. Sarah Anthony to celebrate the signing of the CROWN (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural hair) Act, which bans hair discrimination and removes barriers to Black Michiganders achieving economic prosperity.

“I am proud to sign … bipartisan legislation alongside Senator Anthony to end hair discrimination in Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. “The CROWN Act will address hair discrimination Black Michiganders face at work, at school, and elsewhere. Black Michiganders must be able to wear their natural hairstyles however they choose and not feel forced to change or straighten their hair for interviews, work, or school. We know that 44% of Black women under the age of 34 have felt this kind of discrimination before and I am proud that we are taking an important step forward today to make our state more equitable and just. Let’s keep working together on our comprehensive Make it in Michigan vision to build a state where every Michigander can work, live, and raise a family.”

Read and share Gov. Whitmer’s press release.

Black Leadership Advisory Council Support & Recommendations

The CROWN Act was one of 11 policy recommendations BLAC offered to Gov. Whitmer in their 2022 report based on subject expert presentations and other forms of research and analysis.

“From bias in job recruitment to natural hairstyles being restricted in schools, our community is subjected to race-based discrimination every day, and the CROWN Act shows Black Michiganders – and the world – that we deserve equal opportunities and the freedom to show up as our most authentic selves,” said BLAC co-chair Dr. Donna Bell. “We applaud Gov. Whitmer and the legislature for bringing the CROWN Act to Michigan and banning hair discrimination in our state.”

“Following my work with Kent County to pass local policies to ban race-based hair discrimination, I am overjoyed to know all Black Michiganders will now receive these protections,” said BLAC co-chair Robert Womack. “The Black Leadership Advisory Council applauds our state leaders for passing this meaningful legislation and adding Michigan to the growing list of partners in this national movement.”

GRAAHI blood drive brings awareness to the need for diversity in blood donations.

February 16, 2023January 5, 2023 by Barbara Lash

This January, National Blood Donor Month, GRAAHI follows in the footsteps of two heroes for life, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Dr. Charles Richard Drew, by joining with Versiti to hold a Blood Drive at Brown Hutcherson Ministries.

In the 1940s, Dr. Charles Drew laid the groundwork for today’s modern blood donation program through his innovative work in blood banking. The Red Cross blood bank program began in 1940, under the leadership of Drew who became the organization’s first medical director in 1941.

“He was a surgeon, educator, scientist and the first African-American blood specialist who helped shape the blood services industry. His legacy is far-reaching and we hope this drive helps educate the community about the need for a diverse blood supply,” said Vanessa Greene, CEO of the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute.

Why is an ethnically diverse blood supply important?

Because blood type is inherited, a compatible donor is often someone of a similar ethnic background. Diversity in donation is important for improved patient outcomes, as rare and uncommon blood types are often found in similar ethnic populations.

For example, sickle cell patients may require chronic blood transfusions to treat their disease, Since 44% of African Americans have Ro blood, providing matched Ro blood to sickle cell patients may provide a safer blood transfusion. Patients are less likely to experience complications from blood donated by someone with a similar ethnicity.

Become a Hero for Life and feel the good benefits of supporting your community. Join us January 21st from 9:30am to 1:30pm at Brown Hutcherson Ministries, 618 Jefferson Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503. GRAAHI seeks to create a welcoming and safe environment with a team focused on supporting your needs as you donate.

Every pint can save 3 lives!To sign up to donate, and learn more about Dr. Drew, go to graahi.com/giveblood.

Grand Rapids African American Health Institute Plans New Programs and Services After Receiving Federal Grant

January 6, 2023December 19, 2022 by Barbara Lash

Grand Rapids, Mich. (Dec. 19, 2022) – The Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI)announced today it has received a $1 million grant through the federal government’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). GRAAHI was one of 30 grant recipients out of a total of 300 area applicants selected to receive funding by Kent County.

“We are pleased the Kent County administration and commission recognizes the important work GRAAHI provides in this community and has chosen to support our future efforts,” said Vanessa Greene, GRAAHI CEO. “As the leading health equity advocate for African Americans in greater Grand Rapids, we plan to use this federal funding to increase health-related resources for our residents and build on our efforts to make access to healthcare more equitable for all.”

Investing in new and existing mental and physical health programs for local communities was consistently described as “the first priority” in federal, state, and Kent County’s plans for spending ARPA funds. As part of its application process, GRAAHI presented plans to expand our services and impact in these areas. Specifically:

Expanding and enhancing mental health navigation services for Kent County’s BIPOC residents.
1. PROGRAM GOAL/Impact: At least 500 African American residents of Kent County whose mental health needs have developed or been exacerbated as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic will be connected annually to mental health services to regain their optimal level of physical, mental, emotional, and social functioning during the 4-year project period.

Expanding and enhancing the representation of BIPOC professionals in Kent County’s healthcare workforce.
1. PROGRAM GOAL/Impact: Increase representation of African American and Latinx individuals in the Kent County healthcare workforce by engaging an additional 200-300 students annually from 2023-2026.

Launching a maternal and infant health community navigation program to serve BIPOC individuals and families in Kent County at high risk of disparate pregnancy outcomes.
1. PROGRAM GOAL/Impact: Significantly reduce the high and disparate rates of maternal and infant mortality and morbidity from all causes in Kent County’s BIPOC communities.

Expanding and enhancing the Restoring Health program that serves senior citizens in Kent County whose health deteriorated as a result of the social isolation and medical experiences they endured during the COVID-19 epidemic.
1. PROGRAM GOAL/Impact: To serve 300 or more BIPOC adults 65 and older in Kent County each year who were adversely impacted by COVID-19 and/or whose health and wellbeing are now deteriorating or are at risk of deteriorating as a result of chronic conditions, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, and/or social isolation.

Organizing and directing county-wide blood drives with a focus on sickle cell patients.
1. PROGRAM GOAL/Impact: Expand our outreach to over 100 repeat blood donors in Kent County annually, each donating four times per year, resulting in over 1200 lives saved.

“This grant is both an investment in our community’s future health and a validation of the past work by GRAAHI over the past 20 years,” said Paul Doyle, GRAAHI Board Chair. “Since being established in 2002, GRAAHI has worked to improve access to healthcare for marginalized populations, provided health services to uninsured residents and improved the overall wellness of Black and Brown populations in the greater Grand Rapids area. This grant validates our work and sets the foundation for an even greater impact in the coming years.”

Recently our CEO, Vanessa Greene, spoke with Shelley Irwin at WGVU. Listen here.

Meaning in Colors – Holiday Pop Up Shop

December 8, 2022December 7, 2022 by Barbara Lash

Join us December 17th as we co-host a FREE Christmas shopping opportunity for families in need. In a time of residual and onging challenges with a pandemic and rising costs, we understand that creating an abundant holiday can be additional stress to your mental health. That’s why we are supporting Meaning in Colors in creating this fun community-centered shopping event. The heads of families can shop for their family members from a stock-pile of donated goods! No kids are allowed at the event as this is meant to be a suprise for them! (Hello Santa!)

Currently we are signing up families to shop at: FAMILY SIGN UP

We’re also inviting community members and organizations to donate new items to our shop. And we’d love to have additional hands on that day with friendly volunteers. To make a donation or volunteer, email us at: MIC.info@MeaningInColors.org

We’re honored to co-sponsor this event with Meaning in Colors, a local nonprofit that strives to support education and housing for our community members. Collaborations like this mean we’re tackling the social determinants that impact the health of our black and brown communities.

To read more go to:

https://www.meaningincolors.org/gift-giving-pop-up-shop

To support more programs like this, donate as you are able at: graahi.com/growth

It’s Time To Champion Better Healthcare For African-American Seniors

November 24, 2022 by Barbara Lash

Written by Aileen Hope, for The Grand Rapids African American Health Institute

The U.S. healthcare system has had a long, rocky reputation, and across the different demographics older Americans have it the worst. The Conversation notes 11 million older adults are struggling to make ends meet, and skip much needed healthcare as a result.

The numbers are worse for older people of color, and the national disparity between Black and white economic insecurity is 17 percentage points. The inaccessibility of healthcare is thus shown to disproportionately impact people of color and other marginalized groups.

Let’s take a closer look at what this means for African-American seniors.

A look through the medical facts

Statistics show that African-Americans bear the brunt of these healthcare challenges. This was further exposed under the recent Covid-19 pandemic wherein the NCBA highlights 37% of Covid-19 hospitalizations in 2020 and 2021 were older Black adults. This is despite the population comprising only 9% of the 65-and-older demographic.

Furthermore, the death rate from Covid-19 for older Black adults was more than twice the rate of older white adults. This is a recurring pattern that has occurred throughout history — African-American adults are 60% more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes, are 30% more likely to die from heart disease, and also 50% more likely to have a stroke.

The crucial factors

Experts have thus confirmed the pervasiveness of underlying health conditions within the African American community. In particular, gaps in wealth limit their access to the commercialized healthcare system.

Maryville University suggests that senior poverty has the potential to get even worse in the future. The median net worth of U.S. white families is nearly eight times greater than that of Black families. Social security benefits are based on the person’s earnings and are thus also lower on average for people of color, with the typical older Black family receiving annual benefits about 24% lower.

Acquiring a high-paying job and overcoming poverty is easier said than done, too. While we’ve come far since the 13th Amendment, African-American communities continue to lack access to the high-quality education that prepares young people for well-paying careers. They are also less likely to own a home and other assets, which reduces their ability to build wealth.

Seniors bear the biggest brunt of these effects, having survived their youth in a community that had even less access to wealth than it does today. This further puts people of color at disadvantages that can extend throughout their lifetime and pass onto future generations.

What can be done

As society progresses, means to help everyone build financial security for retirement have been developed. However, progression can go two ways, for the better or worse.

A critical program in the history of healthcare for people of color is the ACA or the Affordable Care Act. This allowed states to expand eligibility for Medicaid to everyone below 138 percent of the FPL, and from 2013 to 2019, the coverage gap between Black and white adults dropped by 4.6 percentage points.

In 2016, though, national progress stalled under the Trump administration and coverage eroded for all groups. This goes to show that systemic change is the key. This includes investing in public education, ensuring fair access to stable employment, and promoting financial literacy.

Government assistance programs such as SNAP benefits for food and housing subsidies, and the foundations of a secure retirement, Medicare and Social Security, must be improved as well. On the other hand, organizations or foundations can also do their part by making sure health programs consider African-American seniors’ specific needs and health conditions. Individuals can join the call and spread awareness in their own capacity, too.

As seen by ACA in 2016, the movement towards better healthcare for African-American seniors will naturally be inclusive of other demographics. It is thereby key that we collectively champion the rights of our seniors and African-American communities, in order to improve the lives of all.