Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Cearra Corey.
Dr. Cearra, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
In 2007, I lost my grandmother to lung cancer and two years later, my biological mother died due to AIDS virus. Both of those being autoimmune/blood disorders, I quickly became fascinated with the human body and how it work- (the physiology) of it all. Due to that, I initially wanted to become a pediatric oncologist until I became pregnant by the age of 19 with my first son. Having him, I felt the urgency to expedite the process so I felt I did not have time to go into medical school so I opted for nursing instead. I went to an accelerated BSN program and obtained my nursing degree. I absolutely obsess over health and the human body. Caring for people and ensuring that they are educated about their health is my true passion. Having my son truly amplified my ambition which propelled me forward to further my education and obtain my Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Texas Christian University. Now, I provide primary care, hormone therapy and anti-aging therapy, and am also an adjunct professor where I instruct nursing students.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been the smoothest road but it has been very rewarding. The obstacles and trials made the journey all the more worth it. Navigating teenage motherhood while going through a vigorous accelerated BSN program was no easy feat. There were plenty times I felt as though I was drowning. I felt as though I was missing out as my other friends who did not have kids were doing normal things one would do in their early 20s such as partying and traveling. I felt isolated. During my time as a student during my doctorate program, my husband and I became pregnant with our second son. Having him shortly after graduating, I suffered from severe postpartum depression causing me to fail my board exam twice. That was a huge blow to my mental and emotional health. I felt so discouraged and started to feel like maybe I was not meant to take this path. I started to doubt my capabilities and knowledge despite knowing how much effort and hard work I had placed into my studies. So no, the road has not always been smooth but nothing worth having comes easy. I would do it all over again to get to where I am today.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am board certified Clinical Nurse Specialist specializing in gerontology (the elderly population). This is just a fancy way of saying that I am an advanced practice provider who can assess, diagnose, and prescribe medicines to patients but I also have extensive knowledge in research and the financial component of the healthcare organization. I currently do adult primary care, hormone balancing, and anti-aging therapy. When I am not in clinic, I utilize my knowledge by sharing it with others as an adjunct professor for nursing students. I am most proud of my resiliency and all of the times I have overcame imposter syndrome. I love educating people about their health all while ensuring that I am practicing what I preach. What sets me apart from others is my ability to remain teachable. I am always looking for new things to learn. I practice patience and always make my patients feel heard and valued.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
The advice I would give to anyone who is considering starting a career in this field, or taking on any new role in their life no matter the aspect, would be to be patient and kind to yourself. You eat an elephant one bite at a time. Do not rush the process because the transformation happens during the journey. It will shape you and mold you but you will come out completely unshakable. Anything worth having is worth giving it your all. Always bet on yourself. Surround yourself with people who believe in you even more than you believe in yourself. You will need it!!! Never lose the plot. Never forget why you started. Show up for yourself. Celebrate the small wins. If you run into some delays or obstacles along the way remember, delayed does not mean denied. Put God first in all that you do. Thank God on every step of the journey.
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Image Credits
Darnell Porter
Alex Harris
