OWINGS MILLS, Md. - Marylandian -- Health is for EveryBODY is excited to announce that Shamekka Marty, a distinguished patient advocate, Lupus survivor, and cybersecurity professional, has joined the campaign as an official ambassador. With a long-standing commitment to advocating for marginalized communities, particularly those with chronic and rare diseases, Shamekka brings invaluable experience and passion to the Health is for EveryBODY mission.

As a leader in health equity, Shamekka has devoted her career to improving healthcare access for those who are underserved or underrepresented. Having personally navigated the challenges of Lupus, kidney disease, and several other autoimmune conditions, her advocacy efforts have inspired many individuals facing similar health battles. A tireless advocate for patient-centered care, she also champions the use of technology, particularly AI, to ensure that healthcare systems are equitable and responsive to patient needs.

"I am honored to join Health is for EveryBODY as an ambassador," said Shamekka Marty. "I've spent my life fighting for better care and support for those living with chronic conditions, and this campaign's commitment to health equity aligns perfectly with my personal mission. We all deserve access to healthcare that values us as individuals, and I am excited to work alongside such a dedicated team to help create that change."

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"We are excited to welcome Shamekka and her vast patient experience as part of the Health is for EveryBODY campaign, said Burgess Harrison, NMHA Executive Director.  "Her journey and life experience will be invaluable as we seek to increase awareness of health issues, and help people become informed healthcare consumers," continued Harrison.

Shamekka's journey, which began at the age of 10 as a caregiver for her family members with severe health conditions, has shaped her advocacy work. Overcoming her own health challenges, including a stroke, a hysterectomy, and a kidney transplant in 2023, she has emerged as a powerful voice for patient empowerment and resilience. As an influential speaker, author, and social media presence, she continues to educate and inspire others, reminding us that strength through adversity is possible.

Under the umbrella of Health is for EveryBODY ambassador, Shamekka will continue to focus on raising awareness about the disparities in healthcare, particularly for Black women and those with chronic illnesses. She will work to amplify the voices of underserved communities, advocate for patient-centered policies, and encourage individuals to take an active role in their own health journeys. Her involvement will include speaking at conferences, collaborating with healthcare leaders, and sharing her personal experiences to create a more inclusive healthcare system.

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About the National Minority Health Association (NMHA):
The National Minority Health Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1988. The NMHA delivers on its mission of health equity through innovative programs, including Equity for All, Health is for EveryBODY™ (www.healthisforeverybody.org), Operation Healthy You™, and The Art Alliance, among others. The lack of health equity in underserved, marginalized, and hard-to-reach communities translates into lost lives, adverse health outcomes, higher costs, diminished productivity, and declines in quality of life and well-being for everyone. For more information, visit www.thenmha.org.   Learn how the NMHA is expanding health awareness and access with music as medicine. If you are a business and wish to support NMHA health programs with each sale, go to ChipIn.  Show your support with a t-shirt.