Celebrating Black History Month 2024
At Life's Journey Hospice, our organization takes pride in commemorating Black History Month by recognizing the significant contributions of Black Americans throughout history. This month offers us the opportunity to reflect on the remarkable achievements, resilience, and cultural impact of Black individuals within our society.
Dr. James McCune Smith (1813-1865)
Dr. James McCune Smith was an American physician, apothecary, abolitionist, and author. He was the first African American to hold a medical degree. Dr. Smith graduated at the top of his class at the University of Glasgow in Scotland and published many articles and writings on the misconceptions about race, intelligence, and medicine.
Mary Eliza Mahoney, RN (1845-1926)
In 1879, Mary Eliza Mahoney became the first African American to study and work as a professionally trained nurse in the United States. For decades, women of color helped heal the sick and injured without the opportunity for professional training. Mahoney maintained a private nursing practice during an era of racially prejudiced public nursing and later helped establish the National Association of Colored Graduate Nurses. She was widely known for her high skill and professionalism among her prestigious clients and patients.
Dr. Daniel Hale Williams (1856-1931)
Dr. Daniel Hale Williams made history as the first African American cardiologist and the first surgeon in history to perform a successful open-heart surgery on a human. In 1893, Dr. Williams completed this operation without any x-rays, antibiotics, surgical prep-work, or tools used in modern practice. In addition to this groundbreaking achievement, Dr. Williams founded the first interracial hospital in Chicago in the 1880s, serving on the Illinois State Board of Health and later becoming a charter member of the American College of Surgeons.
Dr. Alexa Irene Canady (1950 – )
In 1981, Dr. Alexa Irene Canady became the first female African American neurosurgeon in the United States. Her research in children includes studies on the effects of hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by the excessive accumulation of fluid in the brain. Canady officially retired from practicing medicine for a second time in 2012, yet she continues to be an advocate for encouraging young women and African American students to pursue careers in medicine and neurosurgery.
Chidiebere Ibe (1996 – )
Chidiebere Ibe, medical student and artist, is known for creating the first medical illustrations featuring Black bodies. Diverse illustrations help foster empathy and improve patient care through visual problem-solving. Ibe combined his passion for art and medicine to begin fixing the inequality in visual representation for those of different ethnicities.
In line with our commitment to providing inclusive and respectful care, we ensure that our support is tailored to honor the diverse backgrounds and experiences of all those we serve. We need to foster an environment that respects and acknowledges the unique journey of each person in our care.
During Black History Month, we are reminded of the value of recognizing and preserving the rich tapestry of cultural heritage within our hospice community. Every individual's story is deserving of recognition, and our organization remains steadfast in its dedication to creating an environment that celebrates and uplifts the legacy of every person we serve.
As we honor the past, celebrate the present, and aspire toward a future of equality and unity, we invite you to join us in commemorating Black History Month. Together, let's acknowledge the profound impact of Black individuals throughout history and work toward a future rooted in respect, understanding, and unity.
