Today we’d like to introduce you to Nia Bailey.
Hi Nia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I come from a large and diverse family with roots in North Carolina, Georgia, and Barbados on my father’s side. On my mother’s side, we proudly trace our heritage back to Enoree, South Carolina, where we have strong connections to both Cherokee and Ethiopian ancestry.
My great-grandmother, Marie Pryor, and great-grandfather, Jurell Byrd Sr., may no longer be with us, but their legacy lives on in our family. They instilled in us the values of love for God, self, and hard work.
Jurell Sr. served in the military, working in the Mill and being a part of the Red Ball Express, a vital supply line for the front lines during his time in the Army.
Marie was an incredible and resilient woman. One remarkable story about her is that she used to iron the robe of the grand wizard of the KKK. She had to do this as part of her job for the family she worked for.
These stories, along with the teachings of my grandmother Loraine “Smiley” Byrd Fields-Latham, my great uncles, cousins, and my parents, have shaped who I am today. They have poured their wisdom and guidance into my brother, cousins, and me, providing us with a strong foundation for success. I am deeply grateful for my family and ancestors, as they have overcome unimaginable hardships and laid out a plan and blueprint for the next generation to thrive. I owe who I am to their strength and resilience.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Throughout my life, I have faced numerous challenges, but one of the most difficult struggles I have had to endure is the loss of my family members. From a young age, I experienced the heartbreak of losing my beloved grandfather, Pop-Pop Bailey. He was an incredible man – cool, funny, and always impeccably dressed. His passing left a void in my heart that has never fully healed.
In addition to Pop-Pop Bailey, I have also lost my great-grandmother Marie and great-grandfather Jurell Sr. They were the pillars of our family, the matriarch and patriarch who held us all together. Their absence is deeply felt, and I often find myself longing for their wisdom and guidance.
The loss that has impacted me the most profoundly is the passing of my grandmother, Smiley. Her departure from this world on September 27, 2007, shattered my world. As I navigate adulthood, I often find myself yearning for her presence more than ever. There are so many questions I wish I could ask her and so many conversations I wish we could have. Her absence is a constant reminder of the void she has left in my life.
Most recently, I experienced the pain of losing my Aunt Christine. She was an incredible woman, and her passing has left a significant void in our family. From the passing of my Uncle Herman, Errol, Izzie, Bobby; and the passing of my Aunt Cora, Ann, Mattie, we have certainly endured. The collective losses we have endured as a family are too numerous to name, but each one has left an indelible mark on our hearts.
Despite the pain and grief, I find solace in knowing that my loved ones are now my angels, my ancestors watching over me. Their legacy lives on through me, and I am determined to make them proud. I carry their memory in my heart, and I strive to honor them by living a life that reflects their love, strength, and resilience. Their presence may no longer be physical, but their spirit will forever guide and inspire me.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I take immense pride in the work I do, particularly in sharing stories that have the power to make a difference in people’s lives. It is a true honor and blessing to have the opportunity to connect with individuals who have faced difficult times and are willing to share their experiences to help others and save lives. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of interviewing four remarkable women: Janique Rivera-McGriff, Brenda Dorantes, Lynne Mitchell, and Erica Jo Robinson.
Janique Rivera-McGriff, who has Jamaican, Chinese, and Puerto Rican heritage, was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer at the young age of 29. Her story is one of advocacy, as she faced initial skepticism from physicians who believed she was “too young” for cancer. Janique’s story is a testament to knowing her body and advocacy!
Brenda Dorantes, of Mexican descent, was diagnosed with breast cancer in her 30s. She courageously shares her story in her native language of Spanish, with English subtitles provided. Brenda highlights the challenges she faced as a busy mom and wife with limited time to prioritize her own self-care. Brenda’s story is a testament to putting herself first, and she realized she could not pour from an empty cup.
Lynne Mitchell, with German, Swedish, and Irish roots, received a diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer at the age of 41. As a single mother, she fought not only for herself but also for the well-being of her boys. Lynne’s story is a testament to the strength and determination of a mother’s love.
Erica Jo Robinson, an African American woman, bravely shares her journey with stage 4b adenocarcinoma. Her story emphasizes the power of the tongue, positive thinking, and the fight for one’s life.
These incredible women’s stories have been captured in two powerful documentaries: ‘A Letter To My Sisters: A Breast Cancer Documentary For Young Women’ and ‘A Letter To My Sisters: The Erica Jo Robinson Story.’ Through their personal experiences, they are defying the odds and using their voices to make a difference in the fight against cancer.
Janique, Brenda, Lynne, and Erica Jo have become beacons of hope, providing invaluable resources and tools for education, prevention, treatment, and the reduction of cancer mortality rates. Their stories shed light on the importance of advocacy, understanding family cancer history, genetic testing, clinical trials, and so much more. They are truly making a difference and saving lives.
I am incredibly grateful and proud to have had the opportunity to share their stories and contribute to the important work they are doing. Their bravery and resilience inspire me every day, and I am honored to play a small part in their mission to make a positive impact in the world.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I firmly believe in the power of storytelling to make a difference in people’s lives. It is my passion and purpose to use storytelling as a means to save lives and create positive change. That is why I am involved in various projects and organizations that are dedicated to this mission.
One of the initiatives I am proud to be a part of is the Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation, which was co-founded by Shogunny McBeth-Alexander, Trudean Haye, Narda J. Fields, Alvin Fields, Jarrod Hill, Curry Bailey III, Brittany Young, Shannon Stones, Jenna Bucolo, Kate Bucolo, Dr. Monique Gary, and myself. Our goal is to raise awareness about cancer and provide education and support to those affected by cancer. Through storytelling, we aim to empower individuals with knowledge and resources that can potentially save lives.
In addition to the Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation, my family and I have also established Agape—Finding Your Purpose, Incorporating Your Faith, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping those without a home. Through this organization, we provide support, resources, and a sense of community to those in need. By sharing stories and experiences, we aim to inspire compassion and make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Another project I am involved in is Love Thy Neighbor, an interactive children’s book created by DayDream Kreative Studios, Jodi Faber, and myself. This book teaches important values such as kindness, compassion, and agape love to young readers. Through storytelling, we hope to instill these values in children and promote a more compassionate and inclusive society.
Furthermore, I am proud to be a part of the team behind A Letter To My Sisters: A Breast Cancer Documentary For Young Women. This documentary was created in collaboration with DayDream Kreative Studios, Judy Smith Bogad, Yanci De La O, Janique Rivera-McGriff, Brenda Dorantes, Lynne Mitchell, MUMM Inc, More Than Kale Meal Prep and Catering, Jade Sky, 4 Hills Junk Removal, and 4 Hills Photo. Our aim is to raise awareness about breast cancer and provide support and resources to young women facing this disease. Through the power of storytelling, we hope to inspire and empower young women to take control of their health and seek the necessary care and support.
Additionally, I am involved in the creation of A Letter To My Sisters: The Erica Jo Robinson Story, along with Christian Francis, Ryan Pace, Nathan Pace, Raquel “Glammy” Fountain, Erica Jo Robinson, and myself. This documentary tells the inspiring story of Erica Jo Robinson, who has faced stage 4b adenocarcinoma with strength and resilience. Through her story, we aim to raise awareness about cancer and inspire others to never give up in the face of adversity.
These projects and collaborations are driven by our collective desire to save lives through storytelling. As a culture, we have a rich tradition of learning and implementing change through the experiences and stories of others. By working together, collaborating, and supporting one another, we can make a meaningful impact and create a better future for all.
Support by donating, sharing and sharing our cause!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.drniaimanibailey.com/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-nia-bailey-dpa-m-a-ed-rt-t-219a2ba6?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Other: https://byrdcancerfoundation.org/ ; https://www.agapenonprofit.org/; https://www.niabaileybooks.com/
