Author: purpose88

Beauty Encouragement Especially for the Ladies For young girls Health(y) Hopeful Profiles Protection Wholeness

Women in entertainment share their stories of abuse (National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1.800.799.3224)

By purpose88 on

By Angela Wilson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Program Intern

Keke Palmer is an established actor, singer, and television host. She made history by becoming the first and youngest African American woman to play Cinderella on Broadway.  Cassandra Ventura (Cassie) is a singer, songwriter, dancer, model, and actress. Both ladies have amassed millions of fans who adore their work and respect their craft. They are constant fixtures on social media, of achieved both fame and fortune, and in committed relationships. Keke has a four-month-old baby with boyfriend Darius Jackson and Cassie has 2 children with hubby Alex Fine. These two ladies seem to have a life that most would envy. But unfortunately, according to them, they have endured rocky moments: Cassie in a previous relationship with another well-known celebrity.

Keke Palmer sent shockwaves through the entertainment world in November of 2023 when she requested (and received) a temporary protection order and sole custody of her 6-month-old child with boyfriend Darius Jackson whom she alleged physically assaulted her. She also revealed pictures on Instagram that appeared to confirm these allegations.

Cassandra Ventura (Cassie), shocked the hip-hop world when she alleged physical and sexual abuse by Sean Love Combs, also known as Puff Daddy, P. Diddy, and Brother Love. Puff Daddy is very well-known in the entertainment industry for being a singer, songwriter, record producer, actor and philanthropist. Puff Daddy settled with Cassie a day after her civil lawsuit was filed for an undisclosed amount of money. Although settled in court, Cassie’s claims does shine a light on harsh realities and adverse experiences she endured while starting a career in the music industry. After spending years in darkness, Cassie has exclaimed her desire to speak up so that she could help other women who may also be in abusive relationships. Since her public allegations were made, three other women have come forward with accusations of physical and sexual abuse against Puff Daddy.

KeKe and Cassie’s resilience should be celebrated and their efforts to “speak up” are applauded by many. Their story is one of adverse experiences, but continues to provide HOPE for many who are following their journeys. For example, KeKe hosted the Soul Train Music Awards in November 2023, performing an emotional song called “Ungorgeous,” baring her soul and family challenges. KeKe has many projects in the works and is continuing to focus on her family. Cassie too is enjoying motherhood, her role as a wife to a loving husband, and continues her modeling career. They both are living models of encouragement for overcoming hardships in intimate partner violence (IPV).

According to the Domestic Violence Hotline, 3 out 10 women have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by a partner and reported it having a related impact on their functioning. Additionally, IPV affects more than 12 million people every year in the United States. Domestic abuse is never okay!  If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, there is help. The National Domestic Violence Hotline operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can call, send a text message, or start a chat. They offer care, support, and advocacy and can be reached at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or by texting “START” to 88788.

Posted in: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
No comments
Beauty Encouragement Especially for the Ladies For young boys For young girls Positive Prevention Profiles Solidarity (Commonality, Humanity) Understanding (Insight & Wisdom)

Hitting the Hot 100, checking STD stats, checking your STD status

By purpose88 on

Angela Wilson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Sexyy Red is the latest Hip-Hop sensation and cultural phenomenon.  She cemented herself as a mainstream artist with her break-out hit “Pound Town” and partnered up with Niki Minaj on the certified Gold hit entitled “Pound Town 2″, debuting at No. 66 on the Billboard Hot 100. Unfiltered, the rapper’s lyrics may be considered a bit “raunchy” for some listeners. Still, she has fans, many fans, amassing over 1.7 million followers on Instagram and is currently the opening act for mega-entertainer and rapper, Drake.  Often dawning pierced lips, eccentric hairstyles, and revealing clothes, Sexyy Red is a rising star in the rap and hip-hop genre. It appears many enjoy her message of sexual freedom, but some may also take issue with her messages, portrayal of Black women, or the way she discusses sexual experiences openly.

Sexy Red, whose real name is Janae Wherry, has been receiving tons of backlash lately after proclaiming herself “the raw dog queen” on Lil Yahty’s podcast. “Raw dog” is a saying that means “having unprotected sex.” She also revealed that she does not like condoms or latex and claimed that they make her private area smell. It did not take long for her comments to hit Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and other forms of social media; with some disapproval and others claiming that she’s “keeping it real.”

It is easy to understand the concerns about the some of the statements Sexy Red made in her interview. Still, it is important to raise awareness about some specific concerns if one chooses to engage in sexual activity. Check out the graphic from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) below regarding sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States.

Additionally, it is important to understand that consistent and correct use of latex condoms can drastically reduce the risk of gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis. Latex condoms can also reduce the risk of genital herpes, syphilis, and chancroid, working when a person’s infected area or site of potential exposure is protected (CDC, 2023). Check out the links with each sexually transmitted infection or disease (STI or STD) to learn the facts about each.

If someone has concerns about latex condoms, some condoms are made of other materials (i.e., polyurethane, polyisoprene, and nitrile) are great for people who have latex allergies or sensitivities. Still, these condoms may be slightly less effective at preventing STDs than condoms made from latex (Marfatia, Pandya, & Mehta, 2015).

If choosing to engage in sexual activities, health experts from the CDC and Planned Parenthood encourage individuals to consider the following tips:

For more tips and to learn more about protecting yourself during sexual activities, please check out the links above. Want to talk some more, check out our Facebook page here: @phame.us.impact.

References

Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, September 5). U.S. STI Epidemic Showed No Signs of Slowing Down in 2021 – Cases Continued to Escalate. https://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/newsroom/2023/STD-Surveillance-Report-2021-media-statement.html

Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, September 5). How can I Protect Myself from HIV?. https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/hiv-prevention/protect-yourself-during-sex.html

Marfatia YS, Pandya I, Mehta K. Condoms: past, present, and future. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2015;36(2):133–9. doi:10.4103/0253-7184.167135

Posted in: , , , , , , , , , , ,
No comments
Prevention Profiles

Forest Whittaker: Life with Ptosis

By purpose88 on

By Angela R. Wilson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Photo: @forestwhitaker | INSTAGRAM

Forest Whittaker is an actor, producer, and director who has garnered lots of accolades and awards.  His career spans over 6 decades and includes an Academy Award for his portrayal of the Ugandan dictator Idi Amin in the film The Last King of Scotland.  While people often take notice of his accomplishments in the film industry, they also may notice at times the physical appearance of his eyes. Whitaker has a condition known as ptosis which not only impairs his vison, but also causes his eyelid to droop down. Ptosis is also known in simple terms as a lazy eye or drooping eye.

Ptosis can be hereditary, as in Whittaker’s case, but you can also get it as an adult if the nerves in your eyelid muscles become damaged. Ptosis can occur because of injury, disease, or other underlying conditions such as a stroke or neurological disorders. The muscles and ligaments that raise your eyes become weak and can no longer support holding them open. Lastly, Ptosis can occur as we get older and our eyes age. It is not uncommon for the ligaments and muscles around the eyes to become weaker as we get older.  Ptosis can affect one eyelid (unilateral ptosis), or both eyes (bilateral ptosis).  It can also be temporary or permanent and can significantly reduce your vison depending on how much of your pupil is obstructed.

Treatment of Ptosis depends on the cause and ranges from topical to surgical. A complete eye exam, blood tests, and imaging tests will assist the ophthalmologist in determining the best treatment.   FDA approved medications like Upneeq, containing oxymetazoline, are drops that can be used to raise the eyelids and open them up wider. Surgery may be needed for more severe types of ptosis.  Ptosis surgery involves making a small adjustment to the eyelids or strengthening the Levator Palpebrae Superioris muscle.  Levator Palpebrae muscles raise and maintain the upper eyelid. The surgery is usually done as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia (to help with discomfort) and lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. 

There are several options to treat ptosis.  Just make sure you have a conversation with your physician to go over your expectations and concerns so that you can choose the best way to proceed. 

References:

American Optometric Association. (2023). Ptosis. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/ptosis?sso=y

Boyd, K. (2022). American Academy of Opthamology. What Is Ptosis?. https://www.aaa.org.

Seltman. W. (2022). WebMD. Droopy Eyelid (Ptosis). 5 Causes of Drooping Eyelid & Treatment. https://www.webmd.com.

Posted in: , , ,
No comments
Prevention Profiles Protection

NeNe Leakes and many other families experience challenges with fentanyl in the United States

By purpose88 on

By Angela Wilson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Linnethia Monique Johnson, also known as NeNe Leakes is a reality television personality, actress, author, author, and fashion designer.  NeNe has amassed over $14 million in her career. Still, like many Americans, Leakes still has experienced the harsh circumstances of drug use within her family. Bryson Bryant, Leakes oldest son was arrested on felony drug possession charges on July 3, 2023, in Gwinnett County, Georgia.  Police found the 33-year-old in possession of fentanyl. Initially, Leakes was quiet about her son’s arrest, but a few days ago, she broke her silence about the incident on a television podcast. 

Leakes did not make excuses for her son and insisted that he needed rehabilitation and counseling. She also admitted that her son has an addiction problem that he has been struggling with for years, and although he has been to rehabilitation, he has relapsed several times. During the interview, she confessed that she has other family members who struggle with drug addiction too.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), almost 22% of people over the age of 12 used illicit drugs, including marijuana, and 9.2 million people over the age of 12 misused opioids.  Also, The Center for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that in 2021, over 106,500 people in the United States died from drug overdoses.  Even more alarming, people as young as 15 were included in these overdoses because of an increased use of fentanyl. These statistics prompted the Government Accountability Office to classify the illegal use of drugs as a high risk and emergent issue.  Currently, the White House has laid out a strategic plan that includes a multi-disciplinary approach to combat illegal drug use.  The main intervention efforts focus on untreated addiction and drug trafficking and directs federal agencies to make help available for people in need, save lives, and aggressively go after drug traffickers.

Drug use and addiction impacts us all because when people are addicted to drugs, there is usually an increase in crime, criminal justice costs, and burdens on social services.  Individuals who are addicted to drugs also experience a decrease in work performance, deteriorating relationships, and unpaid health care bills.

So, whether you are the son of a famous television personality like Ne-Ne Leakes, or not, it is imperative that you get help if you or someone you know is addicted to drugs. There are several options available including using FDA approved medications, facilitation therapy, outpatient counseling, and inpatient rehabilitation.  Drug addiction is a battle that we cannot afford to lose! For more on seeking help for substance abuse, please call 1-800-662-4357 and visit, https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline.

References

Gramlich, J. (2017). Pew Research Center. Nearly Half of Americans Have a Family Member Or Close Friend Who’s Been Addictged To Drugs. https://www.pewresearch.org.

John Hopkins Medicine. (2022). New Research and Insights into Substance Use Disorder. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org.

Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). U.S. Overdose Deaths in 2021 Increased Half as Much as in 2020. https://www.cdc.gov.

Posted in: , , , , , , , ,
No comments
Advocacy Encouragement Health(y) Positive Promotion

Pete Davidson – It’s OK when you are not OK

By purpose88 on

Angela Wilson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo: Saturday Night Live @NBCSNL on Instagram

Pete Davidson is a comedian, actor, and writer.  He made us laugh for many years while performing outrageous skits on the late-night series, Saturday Night Live, but America’s funny man has checked into a rehabilitation facility, and it is no laughing matter (Drillinger, 2023) . Davidson has always been transparent about his diagnosis of post traumatic stress disorder, (PTSD) and borderline personality disorder. Sometimes we think that entertainers are exempt from mental health issues, but Davidson is the epitome of that not being the case.  Pete Davidson is one of millions of Americans who suffer from mental health disorders, partially brought on by the death of his father in the September 11, 2001 attacks.

Like Pete, many Americans need therapy to help protect their mental health, and according to Cindy Sharp, a local Clinical Social Worker/ Therapist, who specializes in trauma, anxiety, and depression, there has been a spike in people seeking mental health services. Worry, grief, self-doubt, anxiety, losing loved ones, and divorce are things that we all go through at some point in our lives. However, due to the stigma attached to mental health, we often do not seek out the help that we need. People end up suffering in silence as they struggle with day-to-day living. Most of us will go to a doctor when our physical body is in pain, but when our mental state is hurting, we do not put forth the same energy. We need to normalize and destigmatize taking care of our mental health.

Mrs. Sharp’s practice focuses on a holistic approach to therapy.  She feels passionate about providing an environment where people with mental health issues can feel safe and supported so they can embrace positivity and begin the journey to heal.  She is just one of many therapists who can help you explore your troubling issues. 

If you are struggling with your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors and feel that your mental health is at risk, please seek help! It is OK so say you are not OK.  Pete Davidson realized he was not ok and took the necessary steps to get help. How many others are willing to do the same?

References

Drillinger, M. (2023). Pete Davidson Checks Into Rehab for PTSD, Other Mental Health Issues. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com

Posted in: , , ,
No comments
Advocacy Beauty Family (PHAMILY) Hopeful Positive

Dear Black Girl & Dear Black Boy: Interview with author Dr. Cheri Langley

By purpose88 on

By Angela Wilson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Jairo David Arboleda on Pexels.com

I had the privilege of interviewing the author of Dear Black Girl and Dear Black Boy.  Dr. Cheri N. Langley wrote these books that brings visibility, perspective, and awareness to some of the issues that impact African American boys and girls.  These short, colorful poems help children process some of the racial tensions that they are facing in society.  Dr, Langley further acknowledges that being a black boy in America can carry anxiety and she offers advice on how to engage with law enforcement that could possibly save lives.

In Dear Black Girl, Dr. Langley approaches the issues of racism, sexism, and misogynistic stereotypes experienced by young African American girls. This literature is to invoke conversation and facilitate a healthy dialogue between young black girls and their parents and caregivers.  The language in both books is in poetry form with pictures that are captivating. Dr. Langley does an outstanding job with describing the life of young African American children and commanding their attention to these stories. Her dedication is inscribed at the beginning of the story where she assures her audience that they are loved, and their voices are heard. She brilliantly puts discussion questions at the end of the books that parents can use to help their children understand the contents and purpose. These books serve to bring truth, facts, and compassion to African American children who may not have a voice. Dr. Langley feels that it is important for children of other races to read the book so they can see the lives of their African American peers through their lens.

Dr. Cheryl Langley’s inspiration for Dear Black Boy came from watching the video of George Floyd. Being the mother of two black sons, she said she could not just “look away” from such a horrific incident and felt the need to write to reach little black boys who may be crying out for help.  Dr. Langley is an advocate for underserved and minority populations and has been heavily involved with research involving HIV and AIDS, and sexually transmitted infections awareness and prevention.  She uses her background in behavioral sciences and her work through novels and poems to help facilitate her journey to create positive change, protest injustices, and increase dialogue regarding systemic inequality.  

If you are interested in purchasing either of these works, please check out: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Dr.%20Cheri%20N%20Langley/author/B097QQL3RW

References:

Langley, C. (2023). Dear Black Boy. Dear Black Girl. Langleyresearch.org

Posted in: , , ,
No comments
Advocacy Positive Profiles Solidarity (Commonality, Humanity) Understanding (Insight & Wisdom)

The History Behind Carrie A. Tuggle Elementary School

By purpose88 on

Angela Wilson | Intern UAB School of Education | CHHS

Photo: Instagram | #carrieatuggleelementaryschool

The History Behind Tuggle Elementary School

Tuggle Elementary School is located in Birmingham, Alabama and has approximately 472 students from Pre-Kindergarten to fifth grade. Although it has been affiliated with The Birmingham City School System since 1926, many natives of Birmingham are oblivious to the remarkable history embedded in its name.

Tuggle Elementary School is named after Carrie A. Tuggle, a fierce innovator whose trailblazing efforts are still visible today.  She was born in 1858 in Eufaula, Alabama and subsequently married John Tuggle and had four children.  The couple eventually moved to Birmingham in search of better job opportunities.

Mrs. Tuggle excelled in education, social work, and religion, and found her calling when she began working with delinquent boys as a welfare officer.  After speaking on behalf of boys as young as ten years old, she was inspired to provide housing accommodations for orphaned black children.  She initially took them into her home, until she was able to open a single-building school in September 1903. Named The Tuggle Institute this facility allowed black, destitute orphans and juveniles to receive an education. She also used her courtroom experience to help create The Jefferson County Juvenile and Domestic Court. 

The Tuggle Institute garnered praise from the citizens of Birmingham and was noted for its substantial contributions to the advancement of black people.  Some outstanding alumni who credit Mrs. Tuggle for her influence include Dr. A. G. Gaston, John T. Wheatley, and Erskine Hawkins, to name a few. The Tuggle Institute became affiliated with the Birmingham City Public Schools in 1926. In 1936, The Board of Education named it the Carrie A. Tuggle Elementary School.

Carrie A. Tuggle died in November 1954 and is buried on the school’s ground. There is memorial plaque with these words inscribed: “Carrie A. Tuggle, a scholar, educator, and servant of mankind.” To learn more about Mrs. Tuggle and Carrie A. Tuggle Elementary School, check out https://alafricanamerican.com/beyond-the-book-honoree-archives/beyond-the-book-carrie-tuggle/

References:

Alabama Women’s Hall of Fame. Carrie A. Tuggle. http://www.awhf.org.

Beyond the book – Carrie A. Tuggle – Alabama African American history. Alabama African American History – sponsored by AT&T. (2022, January 14). https://alafricanamerican.com/beyond-the-book-honoree-archives/beyond-the-book-carrie-tuggle/

Posted in: , ,
No comments
Advocacy Encouragement Positive Understanding (Insight & Wisdom)

Lizzo Is PHAT and Fed Up! Is There Any Kindness on Social Media?

By purpose88 on

Angela Wilson | Intern UAB School of Education | CHHS

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Is There Any Kindness on Social Media?

Melissa Viviane Jefferson, also known as Lizzo, is a talented singer, songwriter, rapper, and actress.  She is a trained flutist and has cemented herself in history by playing a crystal flute that President James Madison once owned at a concert in Washington, D.C.  She has won four Grammy Awards, two Soul Train Awards, and a Billboard Music Award.  With over 13 million Instagram followers, there is no denying that Lizzo is a hip- hop and cultural icon. But with all her wealth, success, and fans, Lizzo is ready to call it a quits.  She admits to being fat and she (usually) proudly displays her body in skimpy, revealing outfits, but not without social media trolls reminding her that she is overweight.

One would think that having a voice and stage presence as large as Lizzo’s, she would be somewhat shielded from mean spirited people who seem to get joy from name calling. Unfortunately, this is not the case.  Lizzo is constantly fat shamed because of her body.  She posted to her Twitter account (in part), that she was close to giving up and quitting because of all the name-calling she receives.  She concluded that the love she receives does not outweigh the hate.  So here we are (seemingly) on the cusp of losing one of the most influential hip-hop icons of our time, all because of a lack of kindness and compassion from the social media community.

Lizzo’s experience is just a small sample of a larger issue that is impacting millions of Americans. As our world leans more toward innovative technology and digitalization, we are seeing an increase in people being targeted by online bullying and offensive name-calling.  According to The Pew Research Center (Vogels, 2021), 41% of adults have experienced online harassment, and women are more likely than men to be victims.  While some perpetrators perceive cyberbullying as harmless fun, the effects of cyberbullying are serious. Victims of online bullying may experience feelings of distress, increased feelings of mood swings and depression, insomnia, low self-esteem, and even suicide.   So, while Lizzo’s platform brings visibility to this ongoing issue, there is a significant amount of work to be done to help alleviate it, and that work starts with each of us. As social media users, we need to get involved and actively promote a safe, supportive, and welcoming online environment for people being bullied.  There are no bystanders when it comes to cyberbullying and harassment. So, the next time you are on Facebook, Instagram, or any other social media platform, and you see someone being cyber-bullied, will you interject with kindness and be a part of the solution, or be a part of the problem?

References

Cuncic, A. (2022). Verywellmind. The Psychollogy of Cyberbullying. https://www.verymind.com.

Vogels. E. (2021). Pew Research. The State of Online Harassment. www.pewresearch.org.  

Posted in: , , ,
No comments
Encouragement Mission-fulfillment Positive

Michael Leon- From Ghana to Michigan

By purpose88 on

Angela Wilson | Intern UAB School of Education | CHHS

Photo by Asiama Junior on Pexels.

Michael Leon is a 22-year-old extraordinary athlete at the prestigious Ivy League University of Michigan. He has achieved impeccable stats while participating in the University of Michigan Men’s soccer program.  As a freshman, he started in 3 of the 12 games he played in and achieved a season -high 74 minutes at Oakland. His sophomore year would be equally impressive as he managed to log 84 minutes on the pitch shortly after recovering from a back injury. He has won Allstate and first-team All-star several times and has traveled internationally for training with youth academies. With such a stellar athletic resume, he has a promising future with encouraging prospects.  But this modest athlete is not only thinking about how he can make the future better for himself but also wants to make things better for others.

Michael Leon comes from humble beginnings. He was born and raised in Accra, Ghana, and has dreamed of being an athlete ever since he was ten. His love, tenacity, and passion for soccer helped to propel him from his native land to broader horizons. He played ball in Europe and subsequently moved to America to further his education and dreams.  After attending The Hotchkiss School in Connecticut and becoming one of the region’s top soccer players, Michael Leon committed to The University of Michigan, where he continues to deliver dynamic performances on and off the soccer field.

Remembering his earlier life in Ghana, Michael Leon is determined to make a difference.  He established the Michael Leon Project and partnered with The Uniform Funding Foundation (TUFF) to help provide equipment and uniforms to youths in Ghana.  Adam Shibley, the founder of TUFF, created the non-profit organization to help underserved youth sports teams acquire sports gear. Michael Leon approached him with the idea of providing these items to children in his homeland.  Earlier this year, Michael Leon and Adam Shibley traveled to Ghana and hand -delivered sports equipment to children at Israel Park in Ghana.  Michael Leon is not just a stand-out athlete. He is a compassionate human being who wants to be a role model for his community and provide children with the inspiration and motivation they need to chase their dreams.  Although Michael Leon is still pursuing his degree at the University of Michigan, it is almost certain that he will achieve more academic, professional, and philanthropic accomplishments.

References

Sigal, Jonathan. (2019). Recruiting: Hotchkiss Forward Michael Leon Commits to Michigan. https://www.nesoccerjournal.com.

The Uniform Funding Foundation. (2018). https://gettuff.org. 

Posted in: , , ,
No comments
Advocacy Beauty Prevention

Dying To Be Perfect

By purpose88 on

Angela Wilson | Intern UAB School of Education | CHHS

Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images

Jacky Oh was a Beautiful, talented mega-influencer, model, and socialite who seemed to have everything.  She was a YouTuber, an entrepreneur of a lip gloss line, and a regular star on the hit comedy and cultural phenomenon, “Wild ‘N Out”.  She had amassed an Instagram following of more than a million people and had three beautiful children with her longtime partner, comedian and rapper, DC Young Fly.  Unfortunately, at just 32 years old, Jacky Oh, whose real name is Jacklyn Smith died. 

The vivacious beauty posted on her Instagram page that she was going to have a “mommy makeover” and that she would reveal the results of her procedure on her YouTube channel.  She seemed very excited about the possibility of improving her body, by tightening up the problem areas just months after giving birth to her son. She and her doctor, Dr. Zachary Okhah, were all smiles standing next to each other while flirtatiously piquing the interest of her fans. The publicity seemed to be destined for a promotional win and money maker for both of them, but something went terribly wrong. 

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgery, a mommy makeover can include targeting more than one area of a woman’s body,. Often the surgery of choice for women who have noticed significant changes in their bodies as a result of gaining and losing weight, breastfeeding, and other physical changes during motherhood. The typical problem areas are the breasts and the abdomen.  The breasts began to loose shape after breast-feeding, and the abdominal muscles, tissues, and skin that stretch during pregnancy to accommodate the fetus, may not snap back after giving birth. This leaves women with layers of excess abdominal skin usually accompanied by unsightly stretch marks.  If you are in the entertainment business and your revenue is generated based on how good you look, or how fit your body is, it is easy to see why Jacky Oh decided on a mommy makeover. 

A mommy makeover may consist of breast augmentation, a breast lift, a tummy tuck, circumferential abdominoplasty, and liposuction. It may seem like an easy, quick way to get your pre-pregnancy body back, but there are several risks involved. These risks include infection, bleeding, hematoma, unfavorable scarring, necrosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications, persistent pain, contour deformity, fat embolization, anesthesia risks, and even death.

While speculation is running rampant about the exact cause of death of Jacky Oh, the only thing that is certain is that 3 children will grow up without their mother, millions of fans will be without their shining star, and a loyal man be without his partner.  I cannot help but ask myself, is having cosmetic surgery worth the risk?

References

America Society of Placstic Surgeons. (2023). Mommy Makeover Risks and Safety. https://www.plasticsurgery.org.

Brito, Christopher. (2023, June 2). Jacky Oh, Wild ‘N Out Cast Member, Dead at 32.  https://www.cbsnews.com.

Posted in: , , , ,
One comment