In an inspiring effort to support Black women suffering from uterine fibroids, Khaleelah Harris and Yasmine Griffiths have founded The Beauty of Our Wellness, a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C.
Launched in January 2024, the organization aims to raise awareness and provide financial assistance for women facing uterine health disparities.
The Beauty of Our Wellness focuses on helping women who are struggling with the financial burden of uterine fibroid treatments.
This initiative was born from Harris’s personal experience with uterine fibroids, prompting her and Griffiths to use their combined talents to support their community.
According to the organization’s website, Harris shared her journey, which included undergoing surgery to remove a large fibroid, and felt compelled to assist others in similar situations.
The organization offers financial aid through The Beauty of Our Wellness Fund, targeting low-income and uninsured individuals who need help covering the costs of uterine fibroid treatments.
Studies from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences reveal that 70% to 80% of Black women will develop benign uterine fibroid tumors by their late 40s.
Additionally, Black women are more likely to need surgical intervention due to severe symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.
The Beauty of Our Wellness Uterine Fibroids Awareness Campaign works to spread knowledge about uterine health, provide a directory of Black Women OB/GYNs specializing in fibroid treatments, and offer financial aid for those undergoing treatment.
The co-founders leverage their backgrounds—Harris in art curation and event organizing, and Griffiths as a Howard University medical student and yoga instructor—to create impactful wellness and arts-related events.
Harris and Griffiths found inspiration in Tonya Wright, MD’s 2023 Black Maternal Health charity art exhibition.
Recently, they hosted The Beauty of Our Wellness Awareness Luncheon and Fundraiser on June 1 at Fathom Gallery in Georgetown, providing a supportive environment for women to learn and discuss health issues.
The organization plans to continue these efforts with more events and educational sessions throughout the year.
For ongoing support and information, The Beauty of Our Wellness offers “Wellness Wednesdays” and more on their YouTube channel, fostering a community of awareness and empowerment for women’s health.