Dr Lara Akinnawonu on Sheep, Scalpels, and Sickle Cell: A London Doctor's Rural Welsh Adventure (United Kingdom)

Send us Fan MailDr. Lara Akinnawonu powerful journey from patient to physician began after a childhood road traffic accident landed her in intensive care. This formative experience ignited her passion for medicine and shaped her dedication to serving underrepresented communities throughout her career.After training in rural Wales – a dramatic shift from her London upbringing – Dr. Lara Akinnawonu  gained invaluable perspective on delivering healthcare with limited resources. This creative approach to medicine has infused her work as she advocates for Black health issues across the United Kingdom. Her focus spans multiple critical areas: addressing the maternal mortality rate where Black women face three times higher risk during pregnancy, promoting blood and organ donation within minority communities, and tackling knife crime as a public health emergency rather than solely a criminal justice issue.The conversation highlights how systemic inequalities manifest in healthcare access and outcomes. Dr Akinnawonu shares compelling examples from the COVID-19 pandemic, where second-generation immigrants became crucial bridges between healthcare systems and vulnerable communities by translating vital health information. She draws attention to the stigma surrounding mental health in Black communities and how this contributes to maternal health disparities, while emphasizing the power of representation: "We need more Black doctors, more Black female doctors in every space, in every specialty."Now focusing on paediatrics with a public health lens, Dr. Akinnawonu is tackling childhood obesity, vaccination awareness, and nutritional health in schools. Her international experience in Namibia exposed her to rare conditions and practitioners delivering excellent care with minimal resources – further fueling her commitment to global health equity. Join us for this inspiring conversation about medical advocacy, community service, and creating meaningful change in healthcare for all. What health disparity will you help address in your community today?Music, lyrics, guitar and singing by Dr Ariel Rosita KingTeach me to live one day at a timewith courage love and a sense of pride.Giving me the ability to love and accept myselfso I can go and give it to someone else.Teach me to live one day at a time.....Support the showThe Business of LifeDr Ariella (Ariel) Rosita KingOriginal Song, "Teach Me to Live one Day At A Time"written, guitar and vocals by Dr. Ariel Rosita KingDr King Solutions (USA Office)1629 K St, NW #300, Washington, DC 20006, USA, +[email protected]