Ashley Dedmon learned from an early age that knowledge is power, especially when it comes to health. Her parents, both educators, emphasized the importance of being informed about family medical history. This knowledge gave Dedmon the confidence to advocate for herself in medical settings where Black people’s pain is often underestimated. At the age of 21, she underwent genetic testing and discovered she carried the BRCA2 gene mutation, which increases the risk for breast, ovarian, and other cancers. This diagnosis set Dedmon on a lifelong health journey that has included regular monitoring and preventative measures.
Now 38, Dedmon and her husband are passing on the importance of self-advocacy to their daughters. They encourage their girls to monitor their bodies and recognize changes, empowering them to discuss their health history with doctors and take control of their health. Dedmon’s latest children’s book, “The Big Family Trip: Helping Families to Share Their Family Health History,” aims to guide families in initiating and navigating discussions about health early on. By promoting open communication about family medical history, Dedmon hopes to empower families to make informed health decisions and engage with healthcare providers effectively.
The inspiration for Dedmon’s advocacy and writing comes from her experiences with her own family’s health struggles. Her mother, grandmother, and great-great grandmother all battled breast cancer, leading Dedmon to recognize the importance of understanding family medical history for personalized health management. Her father’s later diagnosis of prostate cancer only reinforced the necessity of being proactive with her health. Through careful monitoring and proactive steps, such as early screening and preventative procedures, Dedmon has been able to manage her increased risk due to the BRCA2 gene mutation.
Dedmon’s decision to feature a Black family in her book is rooted in the healthcare disparities that disproportionately affect Black communities. By highlighting the experiences and health challenges faced by Black families, Dedmon hopes to empower them to engage confidently in health conversations and advocate for themselves. She acknowledges the systemic racism and social determinants of health that contribute to the barriers Black individuals face in accessing equitable healthcare. Medical historian Carolyn Roberts emphasizes the importance of normalizing conversations about family health history in Black communities, where there may be a history of mistrust and mistreatment in healthcare settings.
While some families may have greater access to resources and support for discussing family health history, others may find it more challenging due to past traumas or lack of information. Roberts encourages individuals to seek out community centers and libraries for information on Black medical history if family history is unavailable. Regardless of individual circumstances, the message remains the same: knowledge is power when it comes to health. Dedmon’s book serves as a resource for families to start these conversations, empowering them to make informed decisions and advocate for their health. By sharing their stories and engaging in these discussions, families can create a legacy of health awareness and empowerment for future generations.
