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I've seen personally how birth is an extremely personal and cultural process. During lectures and clinical shifts, I heard stories of moms' previous birthing experiences and customs, which made me realize how crucial it is to respect these practices. Personally, this topic reminds me of cultural diversity and the need to celebrate it. Professionally, it challenges me to ensure that maternity care is culturally sensitive to each mother's background, making the delivering experience as meaningful and empowering as possible.

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This theme is particularly meaningful to me due to my personal experience with the effects of stigma on individuals' ability to receive the help they need. Learning about the different factors that contribute to stigma and its effects has inspired me to consider my own beliefs and how they may unintentionally influence my interactions. As a nursing student, I've seen patients who are battling with mental health or addiction, and I've seen how much compassion and nonjudgmental care can improve their experience. Personally, this subject inspires me to be a voice for people who often get overlooked, and professionally, it motivates me to establish a secure environment for all patients.

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Hello and welcome to our podcast! My name is Alvin Chima, and I'm a nursing student who is excited about researching healthcare concerns that affect the lives of patients, families, and healthcare workers. Throughout my studies and clinical experiences, I've come across many significant instances and obstacles that underscore the importance of growth, knowledge, and equity in our healthcare system.

The goal of this podcast is to spark meaningful conversations about critical topics in healthcare, with an emphasis on inclusivity, cultural competency, and patient-centered care. By using latest research, artifacts (personal drawings, poems, photos), real-world examples, and reflective methods, I intend to motivate listeners to broaden their perspectives and effect positive change in their communities.

In today's episode, we'll discuss five important topics:

Breaking the Chains of Stigma in Healthcare

Equality of Care

Bridging Tradition and Modern Care

Honouring Diversity in Birth

Fathers as Partners in Birth

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The is one of the many drawings I have drawn in the past. The chains in the drawing represent the difficulties that stigma causes for persons dealing with many health issues (like mental illness or substance abuse). Breaking the chains emphasizes the role of knowledge and advocacy in overcoming these hurdles. This relates to the issue by showing the freedom and empowerment that come with knowing and removing stigma.

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This drawing of two earths united by branches from trees spanning a distance holds value for me because it represents how we can overcome the isolation imposed by stigma. The two earths represent the separation between persons suffering from mental illness and substance abuse and the rest of society, but the bridge represents the value of connection, understanding, and support.

I drew this to demonstrate how stigma creates a gap, and a barrier that divides and isolates individuals. However, with empathy and education, we may overcome the gap and connect with one another relating to the theme "Breaking the Chains of Stigma in Healthcare". The trees on top indicate development and healing, demonstrating that with help, people can thrive despite adversity.

This drawing reminds me that even tiny steps toward understanding can make a significant difference in reducing stigma and promoting inclusion and acceptance.

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Samer El Hayek, Wael Foad, Renato de Filippis, Ghosh, A., Koukach, N., Khier, M., Sagun Ballav Pant, Padilla, V., Ramalho, R., Hossameldin Tolba, & Mohammadreza Shalbafan. (2024). Stigma toward substance use disorders: a multinational perspective and call for action. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 15. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1295818

Zwick, J., Appleseth, H., & Arndt, S. (2020). Stigma: how it affects the substance use disorder patient. Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy, 15(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13011-020-00288-0

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Echoes and Artifacts Episode One: Breaking The Chains Of Stigma In Healthcare With Alvin Chima!

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Echoes and Artifacts Episode One: Breaking The Chains Of Stigma In Healthcare With Alvin Chima!

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Having come from a minority background, this theme is particularly meaningful for me. I've grown up understanding that race may influence how people are treated, especially in healthcare. This knowledge has fuelled my commitment to advocating for equal care. I want to make sure that no patient feels marginalized or disregarded because of their race or ethnicity. Professionally, this theme motivates me to be more aware of and combat systemic prejudices in my profession. Personally, it serves as a reminder to draw on my own experiences to connect with patients and create trust in my future practice.

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This drawing of hands in different colours holding a stethoscope is one I created in the past. It is personal to me because it reflects the importance I place on equality in healthcare. The different-colored hands represent the diversity of patients and healthcare providers, while the stethoscope represents our shared objective of delivering fair and respectful care to everyone.

This drawing is directly related to the theme of Equality in Care because it demonstrates that despite our differences, we all deserve the same level of care. It reminds me of why I chose nursing, as I chose it to make a difference by pushing for comprehensive, equitable healthcare for all.

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The poem I wrote for my Art project deeply resonated with me as it underscores the persistent struggle for healthcare equality, particularly in addressing racial disparities. It highlights the unwavering commitment of nurses as advocates for justice, working to dismantle systemic inequities while providing care rooted in dignity and compassion. In conjunction with the theme of Equality of Care, it serves as an important reminder of my duty as a nursing student to actively combat prejudice in healthcare and to guarantee that every patient I assist receives fair treatment.

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Bjur, K. A., Wi, C.-I., Ryu, E., Derauf, C., Crow, S. S., King, K. S., & Juhn, Y. J. (2019). Socioeconomic Status, Race/Ethnicity, and Health Disparities in Children and Adolescents in a Mixed Rural-Urban Community—Olmsted County, Minnesota. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 94(1), 44–53. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocp.2018.06.030

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Chandran, M., & Schulman, K. A. (2022). Racial Disparities in Healthcare and Health. Health Services Research, 57(2). https://doi.org/10.1111/1475-6773.13957

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Ndugga, N., Hill, L., & Published, S. A. (2024, May 21). Key Data on Health and Health Care by Race and Ethnicity. KFF. https://www.kff.org/key-data-on-health-and-health-care-by-race-and-ethnicity?entry=executive-summary-introduction

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Echoes and Artifacts Episode Two: Equality in Care by Alvin Chima!

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Echoes and Artifacts Episode Two: Equality in Care by Alvin Chima!

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This theme prompts me to contemplate the significance of respecting an individual's cultural and historical background during their healthcare journey. During lectures and my clinical shifts, I've learned that there have been instances where patients' cultural beliefs were not fully understood or honored, which motivated me to do better. As a Nigerian, I appreciate the need of acknowledging traditions in healthcare. This subject inspires me to be open-minded and carefully listen to patients from Indigenous cultures, ensuring that their care respects their needs and beliefs. My professional goal is to provide care that is respectful of and includes cultural norms.

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This picture is particularly important for me because it reflects my roots, family, and the beliefs that made me who I am now. Being with my uncle in Nigeria has reminded me of the value of community and the role of family in promoting health and resilience. My uncle exemplifies our culture's knowledge and power, and spending time with him reminds me of the stories and customs passed down through the years.This connection to my heritage,  which is related to the theme Bridging Tradition and Modern Care motivates me as I pursue my career in healthcare.  It supports the notion that healing goes beyond medical procedures and includes comprehending the full person history, culture, and community. This image connects me to my roots and inspires me to honor other culture practices and knowledge in healthcare, ensuring care is holistic and culturally respectful.

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This image of a park with plants and trees is significant to me because it captures the connection between nature and healing, a fundamental principle in many cultural traditions. It reminds me of the importance of holistic health approaches that prioritize environmental balance. This image, which aligns with the subject Bridging Tradition and Modern Care, inspires me as a nursing student to think about how I might incorporate these timeless ideals into my practice, promoting culturally safe care that respects and includes many healing traditions.

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Curtis, E., Jones, R., Tipene-Leach, D., Walker, C., Loring, B., Paine, S.-J., & Reid, P. (2019). Why Cultural Safety Rather than Cultural Competency Is Required to Achieve Health equity: a Literature Review and Recommended Definition. International Journal for Equity in Health, 18(1), 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12939-019-1082-3

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Lauwers, L., Vandecasteele, R., McMahon, M., Maesschalck, S. D., & Willems, S. (2024). The patient perspective on diversity-sensitive care: A systematic review. International Journal for Equity in Health, 23(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12939-024-02189-1

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Echoes and Artifacts Episode Three: Bridging Tradition and Modern Care Alvin Chima!

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Echoes and Artifacts Episode Three: Bridging Tradition and Modern Care Alvin Chima!

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This childhood photo with my mother reminds me of the various and diverse ways in which civilizations respect the process of childbirth. When I look at it, I'm reminded of how various traditions celebrate distinct values and beliefs, incorporating cultural symbols into ceremonies that highlight the wide diversity of birth experiences around the world. These traditions have significant cultural significance and is linked to the current theme. It demonstrates the need to understand and accept each community's approach. For me, this image serves as a poignant reminder of the need of valuing varied experiences and advocating for culturally respectful care.

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Another of my past drawings, I chose a globe to reflect the diversity of cultures and individuals around the world. In relation to the theme many cultures have there own birth customs and traditions. Each region of the world reminds me that birth is experienced differently everywhere, affected by distinct cultural beliefs and values.

This drawing is essential to me because it expresses my view that every family's birth experience, regardless of background, needs to be respected and supported. It relates to the theme Honouring Diversity in Birth by emphasizing the importance of embracing and celebrating these differences in a way that makes each family feel cherished and understood.

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Bohren, M. A., Berger, B. O., Munthe-Kaas, H., & Tunçalp, Ö. (2019). Perceptions and experiences of labour companionship: a qualitative evidence synthesis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2019(3). https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd012449.pub2

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HAYWARD, A., & CIDRO, J. (2021). Indigenous Birth as Ceremony and a Human Right. Health and Human Rights, 23(1), 213–224. https://www.jstor.org/stable/27040048

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Echoes and Artifacts Episode Four: Honouring Diversity in Birth With Alvin Chima!

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Echoes and Artifacts Episode Four: Honouring Diversity in Birth With Alvin Chima!

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I am particularly intrigued by this theme because I was previously unaware that fathers may experience uncertainty regarding their role in the childbirth process. During my clinical shift, I witnessed their silent anxiety or pride as they held their baby for the first time. Personally, it has helped me understand the significance of involving fathers in these discussions, not only as onlookers, but as active participants. Professionally, this topic motivates me to advocate for family-centered care, making sure fathers feel supported and respected throughout the process.

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The photo of me wearing the pregnant jacket during my Maternal Child lab proves important because it was not only fun but also extremely eye-opening. At first, I thought it would be an interesting fun exercise, but later wearing the jacket provided me a brief look into the difficulties pregnant people endure on a daily basis. Even simple tasks felt harder, and this gave me a small but important glimpse into the daily struggles that pregnant individuals face.

This artifact aligns with the theme of "Fathers as Partners in Births" because it emphasizes the importance of fathers actively participating during pregnancy. Fathers do not physically carry the baby, but they play an important role in the process. It is their duty to understand their partners' challenges and determine how they can best aid and support them—whether by physical activities, emotional comfort, or simply being present and listening. This experience taught me how important it is for men to be active, supporting partners in ensuring a great pregnancy and birth experience.

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This drawing of a father holding his newborn child is especially meaningful to me because it was inspired by a photo of my father holding me when I was born. I recreated the moment in this drawing, emphasizing the emotions it represents, which is love, pride, and the beginning of his journey as a father.

This artifact relates to the theme of "Fathers as Partners in Birth" because it shows fathers as are not just bystanders but active participants in one of life’s most important moments. My father's presence in that moment represents encouragement, strength, and a bond that began the day I was born. By recreating this moment in the form of a drawing, I wanted to focus on how fathers can be such a crucial part of the birthing journey, both emotionally physically.

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Eddy, B. P., & Fife, S. T. (2020). Active Husband Involvement During Pregnancy: A Grounded Theory. Family Relations. https://doi.org/10.1111/fare.12486

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Hodgson, S., Painter, J., Kilby, L., & Hirst, J. (2021). The Experiences of First-Time Fathers in Perinatal Services: Present but Invisible. Healthcare, 9(2), 161. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9020161

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Echoes and Artifacts Episode Five: Fathers as Partners in BirthWith Alvin Chima!

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Echoes and Artifacts Episode Five: Fathers as Partners in BirthWith Alvin Chima!