Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nia Bailey. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Nia, so excited to have you with us today and we are really interested in hearing your thoughts about how folks can develop their empathy? In our experience, most folks want to be empathic towards others, but in a world where we are often only surrounded by people who are very similar to us, it can sometimes be a challenge to develop empathy for others who might not be as similar to us. Any thoughts or advice?
My grandmother would always say to us “Never look down on anyone unless you are extending a hand down to help them up.” My mom would say, “we are all just a paycheck or decision away from homelessness. Be kind. Always. You never know people’s struggles.” As I carried on through life, I would always be reminded of their advice; whether I was treating a patient who had cancer, or talking to someone without an address. I am always reminded, this could be me, or this was my family member. That’s how I developed empathy.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Who am I? Nia Imani Bailey. I come from Ethiopian, Bajan, and Cherokee roots. My family’s home is in Enoree, South Carolina. My great grandfather Jurell Sr., and great grandmother, Marie Pryor had 12 children, including my grandmother, Smiley. Smiley, had my mom, and my mother had my brother and I. I come from a long line of love, strength, wisdom and God fearing people!
They are the reason we created Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation. Out of the 12 siblings, 11 had cancer. My family has been drenched with the diagnosis of cancer. It is time we educate, prevent treat and disseminate that which is cancer.
Who I am is because of my family. It is the reason I became a Radiation therapist. The reason I received my doctorate. The reason why I love telling stories of phenomenal thrivers. The reason I became an author. My family has instilled in me the love of Christ and the mission of His work. It is my responsibility to share is love, by living in my purpose.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The three areas of knowledge that were impactful in my journey:
1. Follow and obey Christ
2. Listen to the wisdom from the older generation
3. Discern Gods voice from your own
My advice to anyone, is to keep the faith, listen and have discernment. Whatever faith you subscribe to, it is important to give your all in your faith. It is important to know which voice is the correct voice to listen to. Listen to those who have experience in life. The goal is, they don’t want you to go through the same thing they did. Listen! No one is too good, or too grown, not to listen. For if you do these three things, your life won’t be easier, but will be impactful and rewarding!
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
God
My father, Curry J. Bailey III
My mom, Narda J. Fields
My brother, Jarrod Hill
My grandmother, Smiley
My entire Byrd/Pryor family
Without them, I would not be here! Period. They give me love, Godly discipline, respect, advice and support. We all support each other. We are each other’s biggest cheerleaders! When the world gets hard, I run to them! They love me and have my best interest, ALWAYS. That’s what I needed to be “successful”, I needed them AND I still need them! I will always need and want my family. I am extremely blessed!
Contact Info:
- Website: drniaimanibailey.com
- Instagram: @drniimani
- Facebook: Nia Imani
- Linkedin: Dr. Nia Imani Bailey, DPA, M.A.Ed., RT(T)
- Other: byrdcancerfoundation.org
niabaileybooks.com
agapenonprofit.org
