The (Re)Introduction
It has come to my attention that I have not properly introduced myself to many of you.
I am Sheneka, a Brooklyn girl, first generation American with Caribbean roots. I love travel and have been to 23 countries. I took opportunities in medical school to travel to Thailand and Kenya. And in residency during the call free month, I hopped on a plane to work in Ecuador and Peru. I completed a global health fellowship that took me Navajo Nation in AZ and NM, and internationally to Liberia.
I will try most foods at least once (but draw the line at bugs and vermin.) I’m adventurous, love to read, and am a nitrox certified scuba diver.
I am an early career pediatrician.
I started the Blk Doctor, after experiencing burnout that started in residency, and peaked in fellowship. Upon graduation, I decided I would not practice clinically at all. (I have returned to clinical work on my terms.) I had been underpaid and overworked and I was exhausted!
I was surprised that many of the things I disliked in residency transitioned into full time attending roles; the poor boundaries employers had with our time/ schedules, the excess administrative work, the lack of autonomy, etc. I had endured up until then on themantra of “I can survive anything for a finite period of time.” I paid thedues, went through the training, worked the 30+ hour shifts, handled the disrespect professionally. And I thought it would end with graduation. It did not. It does not.
When I looked around for the support of my community, I did not see organizationally led interventions by and with people who looked like me. Where was my community led support?
I still love interacting with my patients and their parents. I still feel theutmost thrill while attending a delivery and showing a parent their newborn for the first time. There is still so much joy to be had in this job. But I know that without addressing the negatives, of which there are many, I could walk away from medicine forever.
The idea that we as Black providers, are already a minority, and poor work conditions could lower our numbers doesn’t sit well. So The BlkDoctor was formed to determine the best ways for us to lean on each other and thrive amidst the challenges. I will continue to work to serve my community. I will do it through supporting my colleagues, and mentoring those that come behind us.
As a community, we can find a way to get the fulfillment we seek. Theonly way is to go through it together. Hope you are along for the ride.
ACTION ITEMS
Therapy is for EVERYONE.
Often times in the Black community people have stigmas against therapy. But we need to challenge this mindset. Even if you do not have a diagnosis, therapy can be useful for you. We can all use support. Providers and patients can benefit from therapy services.
Here are some ways to find a Black therapist:
Therapy for Black Girls- They offer links to therapists, a weekly newsletter, a sister circle support group and more..
Therapy for Black Men- a partner of Therapy for Black girls
Zencare- allows you to search for therapist by race, watch a video featuring the therapist, and schedule free discovery calls with therapists prior to commitment.
And of course, Psychology Today has an awesome searchable database.
I love therapy with a provider who matches my needs!
10/10 definitely recommend!
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Looking to connect to other docs?
WE HAVE A NEW FACEBOOK GROUP! Join The Blk Doctor !
