Only few get the chance to be in the presence of appointed British royalty. But thanks to my kind friend and political science mentor (Vaezi), I was able to have a laugh, chat and learning moments with the UK's first black woman trade union leader; a fellow at the Royal Society of Medicine and former General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, Dr. Dame Karlene Davis, an absolute star. Not as one would expect with such titles as Doctor and Dame as prefixes, but indeed she was truly down-to-earth and a pleasure.
Dame Karlene, is a native of Jamaica and entered London at the age of 18 in search of a career in nursing, but her drive, dedication and ambition lead her to be one of the most outspoken, supportive and practicing midwives around the world. A professional woman from the old school ways of thought, her intelligence is eloquent yet straight forward, and a true lady to the core.
It was an honor and great treat as we spoke about the sadness of women in impoverished countries suffering from improper prenatal care; the advantages of a midwife after giving birth and the inefficiencies of developing countries such as the US and the UK when it comes to new mothers and newborns. Why is it that women are still fighting for what would seem like basic care after giving birth to a human life or shall we say giving birth to a nation? I mean, can anyone else do this or do 'they' really know what it takes to not only deliver but carry and nurture a human life for 9 months; not to mention the damage, or not, pregnancy and delivery can take on a woman's internal and external organs. Moreover, the dangers a newborn can face to a mother with inadequate education for her new life. Okay, so I have ventured off to one of my sermons, my apologies.
On a lighter note, we were entertained with photos and discussion of her 14-week grandson; inquired of her travels around the globe; agreed to the mis-education and rearing of children in British schools today; and chuckled at the crazy stories of politicians in the news. But the breathe of discussion, from our two and a half hour lunch, continued as three friends catching up over a fantastic meal from Thai Square (the food is amazing!).
What did I remember most from our conversation? A quote from the Dame, which I can't forget, was in her stories dealing with people who are not use to or choose not to show respect to a black woman who holds such an honorary position due to her hard work and achievements. She states at times she has to remind some, 'I think I said Dame Karlene' or '...you can call me Dame Karlene'. I heard that! (in my girlfriend voice) She told us to never let someone plant the seed of doubt within us and at times some have to be reminded as to who you are. Respect is earned not given and she has truly earned it for being a catalyst of change.
As I continue my journey to empower women to live, believe and do the unexpected, I add Dame Karlene to my list of inspirations. She is a woman who took what could have been a normal (yet fully rewarding) career, to above and beyond. Her mission was to speak and teach many. She has fought (and still fighting) obstacles and never lets the seed of doubt be implanted in her by others or herself. She has a mission, found her passion, believed in herself and headed to the mountain top. Enough said.
Dame Karlene is now enjoying retirement and enjoying life with her husband as new grandparents, but still fulfills her duties as Dame by attending and speaking at many conferences and events for the empowerment of women's health care around the world.
Thanks Dame Karlene for being such an inspiring woman (and woman of color).
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