Ask Questions
In March 2024, I released INSPIRE: A Call to Action, a life’s playbook I had written back in 2022. What I didn’t anticipate was just how timely and impactful it would become, especially here in the United States amidst the turbulence of the 2024 elections and the transition to a new presidential administration.
Let’s be real — we’ve all been hit with what feels like a firehose of executive orders, policies, and political shifts, no matter where we stand on the political spectrum. The current administration’s rapid decisions have drawn bold lines in the sand, leaving voters — including many who cast their ballots for this leadership — grappling with uncertainty about what’s next.
As I reflect on INSPIRE: A Call to Action, I realize it couldn’t have arrived at a better time. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or in need of a push to reclaim your power, keep reading.
We’re witnessing federal departments in the middle of a hostile takeover, influenced by a billionaire who spent $277 million to help secure this administration’s victory. Understandably, people are worried — about Social Security, pensions, healthcare, and the stability of their future. I get it. I’m right there with you, especially as I navigate the healthcare system for my 89-year-old parents, both facing serious health challenges. Dealing with insurance companies that seem hesitant to authorize necessary care reminded me of a crucial section in my book titled “Ask Questions.”
Today, I felt compelled to share some insights from that section — because I believe they can help you, too. If you find these reflections meaningful and want to dive deeper, you can grab your copy of INSPIRE: A Call to Action on Amazon. It’s a 426-page hardback playbook, or you can opt for the digital version. Get your copy here.
Ask Questions [page 206 of INSPIRE: A Call to Action]
AS ADVOCATES FOR OUR loved ones, we must learn to ask the necessary questions. After her recent hospital bouts, I glanced at my mom’s nightstand in her room and was floored by the number of prescription bottles. I couldn’t help but wonder if different prescriptions were counteracting any others.
I started asking questions to myself and my mom. Is food necessary to take this pill? Should this medication be taken on an empty stomach? What are the side effects of this prescription? Can the medications be taken together? So many questions for which I did not have answers. Luckily for us, I know someone in medicine who can help decipher the different prescriptions and help my mom keep track of things. But not everyone has that on their side. So how do you advocate for yourself and your loved ones?
At the time of writing this book, we have been on the air with News in Motion for more than three years. It was after one of the episodes when I received a number of questions about advocating for your health and well-being. I decided to write an article in one of my eNewsletters, which I share in today’s inspirational message, as follows.
First, you must be your primary advocate for your health and well-being. If advocating for yourself isn’t possible, bring someone along with you to your appointments who will. Transparent moment: I have a condition called Lymphomatoid papulosis. When I was first diagnosed, all I heard was the word cancer. I missed everything the doctor said afterward because I was trying to hold it together. I was admitted that day because, at that time, it was considered a rare condition, especially for a person of color. Thank God my sister was there who could explain to me what the doctor said. She was the one who asked question after question to help gather all the information we needed so that I could continue my journey of life. Therefore, it is just as important to serve as the advocate of a loved one who may not be able to advocate for themselves.
Have you ever left the doctor’s office, urgent care, or the hospital with any of the following?
• You are unsure about your doctor’s terms, phrases, or language.
• You are unclear about the diagnosis.
• You were given instructions but did not fully comprehend how to take prescribed medication or care for yourself with the diagnosis you received.
• You are unsure if you have explained yourself well and your symptoms to your nurse or doctor.
• You are unclear about what’s next after your appointment.
Don’t worry. Most of us have been there a time or two.
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER AND ASK FOR ANY MEDICAL SITUATION:
1. In layman’s terms, what is going on with me? What’s going on with my loved one?
Yes, ask the doctor to explain what is going on with you. If you still don’t understand, keep asking until you do. Have the confidence to ask your doctor to explain what’s happening inside your body in non-medical terms that you can understand.
Ask follow-up questions to gain a clearer understanding.
• How serious is the condition?
• Is there anything you need to do immediately?
• How will this condition impact your everyday life?
• Is this a chronic condition?
• How soon will you begin to see things get better?
• Will this condition worsen?
• Is this something that will take care of itself over time?
• What caused this to happen?
• Is this condition contagious?
Do not be afraid to ask questions, and do not respond in fear. I know fear can take over sometimes, but remember, “God did not give us a spirit of fear.”
2. How should I care for myself? How should I care for my loved one?
After I was able to push past hearing the word cancer, I learned I have a chronic papulonecrotic skin disease with histologic features suggestive of malignant lymphoma. When I break out due to eating the wrong things, being exposed to dust, and or too much stress in my life, the bumps take up to two months to heal, usually leaving slightly depressed oval scars. Therefore, with my condition of Lymphomatoid papulosis, I needed to know how to care for my new skin condition. I love the sun. I love pineapples. I love swimming. I hate dusting. I needed to know, “Now what?”
A ton of information is shared during emergency hospital visits and [keep reading by purchasing a copy of INSPIRE: A Call to Action here]
If you’re feeling stuck, searching for clarity, or simply need that extra push to step into your purpose, I’d love to walk alongside you as your Inspirational Coach. My coaching isn’t about quick fixes — it’s about helping you uncover what’s already within you, equipping you to move beyond the status quo, and embracing the life you’re meant to live.
And if the political chaos has left you feeling drained, anxious, or uninspired, you’re not alone. It’s hard to stay motivated when the world feels like it’s shifting beneath your feet. But here’s the truth: even in the most uncertain times, you still have the power to create change — starting with yourself. I’m here to help you find that spark again, to reclaim your focus, and to move forward with courage and clarity.
Ready to take that next step? Let’s connect. I’d be honored to support you on your journey.
