Conversations About Health in Black Communities

The Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program (CDTRP) and the Caribbean African Regenerative Medicine (CARM) Project are proud to present a new webinar series focused on health and well-being in African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) communities.
Conversations About Health in Black Communities will explore lived experiences, health disparities, and the impact of race on health and transplant outcomes—bringing together patients, families, healthcare providers, and researchers for meaningful discussions.
In this session, we will hear from Kwameah Anoush Bennett, a child care leader, mother, and advocate, who will share her family’s journey through her son Kael’s liver transplantation. At just 4 years old, Kael received a life-saving liver transplant. Now 14 and thriving, his journey reflects both the challenges and resilience of Black families navigating the healthcare system. 
Key topics will include: 
  • Pediatric liver transplantation 
  • Knowing your family medical history 
  • Unspoken truths and cultural realities 
  • Caregiver mental health and advocacy 
Don’t miss this important conversation! 
Register now!
https://cdtrp.zoom.us/meeting/register/qgxk0-59SqaWQmGQoCcPuQ

About Kwameah Anoush Bennett

Kwameah Anoush Bennett is a dedicated child care leader, mother, and advocate. A Registered Early Childhood Educator with over 30 years in the field, she currently serves as Executive Director of a thriving child care centre in Etobicoke, Ontario. Her journey as a mother took a life-altering turn when her son Kael was misdiagnosed at 3 months old and later diagnosed with Alagille Syndrome. With her husband and daughter, now 24, by her side, she spent years navigating a complicated healthcare system, advocating fiercely, and holding onto hope through fear and uncertainty. At age 4, Kael received a life-saving liver transplant. Now 14 and thriving, his journey continues to inspire. Kwameah shares her experience as a Black mother fighting for her child’s life while continuing to serve her community. She brings heart, humour, and hard-earned wisdom to every convers 

About Dr. Kirk Thame

Dr. Kirk Thame is a pediatric gastroenterologist and Division Chief in the Department of Pediatrics at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans. His clinical focus is gastrointestinal motility. He earned his medical degree from the University of the West Indies in Kingston, Jamaica and returned to lecture there for over 6 years after completing postgraduate training in the United States  

In addition to his academic roles, he is the Vice Chair of Community Engagement and Health Equity for the department.