At 27, actress and advocate Kalilah Harris faced a life-altering health crisis. After months of debilitating symptoms—including extreme fatigue, anemia, and a protruding stomach—she was diagnosed with uterine fibroids.
Now, Harris is using her experience to raise awareness and provide financial assistance to others through her nonprofit, The Beauty of Our Wellness.
Studies show that uterine fibroids disproportionately affect Black women in the United States.
From Diagnosis to Advocacy
Harris’s health struggles left her feeling “in the dark,” unsure of where to turn next. After undergoing surgery to remove the fibroids in 2023, she was left with thousands of dollars in medical bills, sparking a crucial question: If this condition disproportionately affects Black women—many of whom face economic barriers—what are their options?
Determined to make a difference, Harris teamed up with medical student Yasmin Griffiths to launch The Beauty of Our Wellness, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting women impacted by fibroids.
Creating Safe Spaces and Solutions
The organization raises awareness through arts and wellness events, including luncheons that foster open discussions about women’s health.
“Learning about your body is so important,” Griffiths shared on Good Morning America. “We wanted to highlight women’s stories and bring in experts to provide real solutions.”
Beyond education, The Beauty of Our Wellness offers $500 microgrants to women in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area struggling with medical expenses.
“So we offer $500 micro-grants to all successful applicants based in the DMV – D.C, Maryland, Virginia. Raising awareness is wonderful, but without solutions, you’re kind of causing hysteria,” Harris said. “We’re not waiting on anybody to get it done.”
A Mission Rooted in Experience
Best known for roles in For the Love of Jason, Greyson Family Christmas, and Being Mary Jane, Harris is now channeling her platform into advocacy.
“It’s amazing to turn a medical challenge into a purpose that helps others,” she said.
Through The Beauty of Our Wellness, Harris is ensuring that Black women have the resources and support they need to navigate their health journeys.
