In the advent of the recent death of Kanye's mom Donda West, it is imperative that we as Africans in America learn to love the skin we are in. I was in awe to learn that her death was due to complications of plastic surgery! At 58, this woman felt pressured enough to fit into the LA scene by undergoing breast and stomach surgery, despite knowing of a pre-existing heart condition. The system has really done a job on us, bombarding us with the notion that thin is in, and not health. This is one of the main reasons why I want to become a holisic health educator to educate fellow africans in america how to love their bodies and what they can do holistically to transform into healthy beings and not rail thin stick figures. You would think that with all the money she had access to through her son, she would have hired one of those "trainer to the stars", but I am not surprised that she choose the route that she did. Living here in south Florida, I am bombarded with ads and images for plastic surgery. 1 out of 6 commericals here on tv is for some cosmetic or plastic surgery procedure. They are on billboards and buses. So I can see how one can be pressured to look and feel thin, even at age 58.

Just recently I really decided to make a more postive change in my health. A few weeks ago a teenage friend of a friend inquired to me if I was pregnant. I was floored because: 1. I am not 2. I was already feeling a little insecure about my weight 3. I have had some female issues in the past that may hinder me from conceiving on my own. So naturally my feelings were hurt. Even though I am considered to be "thick", I know that I am not in the best shape of my life. That was definitely a wake up call. I appeared to this child to look pregant even though I am not, wow! Did I instantly feel the need for plastic surgery, not really, and I won't lie and say that the thought has never crossed my mind. But I have seen the ramifications of such procedures and I have seen clients who have had procedures done and no longer have feeling in those areas, even the desired results were achieved. I instantly the next day started a rigorous exercise regime and started watching my diet. It's been almost 3 weeks now and the results haven't been mind blowing, but I have noticed some just the same. As a result, my self confidence has bolstered and I know that I am on the right road to being healthy. I don't mind being thick, but I want to healthy and toned. No more no less.

My challenge to you is to take a look at yourselves, yeah there may be a few flaws ( in your mind), but hark on the positives not the flaws. Teach your children the same. But also assess the acts and behaviors that contribute to the negative body images that you have. Junk food and no exercise are killing us off slowly. Move at least 30 minutes a day, it doesn't take much. Say loving affirmations to yourself. Check out my page for the EFT technique, it's a powerful tool that has helped people overcome everything from eating disorders to asthma. Compliment someone on how they look, you never know how that may help them from making a costly and fatal mistake like plastic surgery for cosmetic reasons. I know it may not be easy, but it doesn't hurt to try. And like the background says on my page: LOVE YOUR BODY! God gave it to you for a reason, take care of your gift from God!

Rest in peace sister Donda West, may your untimely death not be vain, and a wake up call to our brothers and sisters who may have felt the way you did. I pray that you have a peaceful transition. Ashe