We recently had the chance to connect with Lakiesha Simpson-El and have shared our conversation below.
Lakiesha , we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I’m walking a path, a path that is God sent and fulfilled with purpose and passion. This purpose and passion is my WHY! My Why is near and dear to my heart, because it began with my beloved mother. My mother was the light of my life and because of her larger than life spirit of resilience and dedication, those attributes keeps me grounded, and authentic which inspires me to constantly pursue my dreams and goals on the path that is destined for me.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Lakiesha Simpson-El I’m a loving wife and mother of four amazing sons. My family is the heart and soul of my life. I’m so blessed and thankful for such a beautiful family! My second job includes being a
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician of 8 years. Im also an published author, my book is titled, Hypertension and Hemodialysis: The Silent Treatment on the Rise! My book is dedicated to my mother that passed away from Hypertension and kidney disease 15 years ago. I also discuss my personal and professional experiences about these two preventable diseases. However, I also discuss kidney health and wellness in my book and at health fairs in our communities in and around the Greater Detroit Metropolitan area. Iam extending my kidney health and wellness business brand titled Rhythm and Balance Wellness! My brand includes valuable resources and information to people along with merchandise such as Tshirts, wristbands. My goal is to continue to inspire others and help them find balance with their health journey . This has been such an rewarding experience professionally and personally which I’m so blessed to continue throughout my communities.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My beloved mother saw who I was before I knew who I was! I was her only child and she instilled in me morals and values throughout my child hood. She supported me with academics ,especially reading and writing. She expressed tough love and encouraged me to be the best that I could be. Those valuable lessons stayed embedded within me until this very day.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I almost gave up when my mother was gravely ill 15 years ago. My mother battled chronic kidney and heart disease, she passed away with in 7 months of being diagnosed. I struggled spiritually and emotionally because my mother was my greatest inspiration. My mother was the first dialysis patient I’ve ever encountered. Once I became a Dialysis Technician after her passing, I used that pain to fuel my desire and inspire to continue helping others in her memory which has tremendously helped me along this health journey.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
The public version of me is the real me. I don’t sugar coat anything that I say or do. When Im explaining information about health whether it be about kidney or heart health to others . I explain that Im not perfect I’ve been on the same spectrum with health challenges and seeing my mother first hand experience them. I tell people we all are a work in progress. No one is perfect but we can work towards healthy dietary and lifestyle goals to help one another. Showing others that I can relate in more ways than one, creates trust and authenticity.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel more at peace when Im taking the time out of my day make time and energy for myself whether it be one hour or 2 hours a day. Just making sure I check in with my mental , emotional, spiritual and physical health. Journaling, listening to music, meditation and exercising , rest, good nutrition keeps me focused and ready to tackle the day.
Also making sure my family is taken care of with hot meals a warm clean home and weekly mental check ins.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Kieshawn_86@instagram
- Linkedin: Lakiesha Simpson-El
- Facebook: Lakiesha Simpson-El
Image Credits
Lakiesha Simpson-El
