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Senator Katrina Shealy, Andrea Gregory. Mental Health
Shealy, who served as a South Carolina State Senator for 12 years and as a licensed insurance agent for 40, is a powerhouse advocate for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. She has worked closely with doctors and researchers, advocated for funding and tackled the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s head-on.
I became deeply involved with the Alzheimer’s Association and other advocacy organizations. I worked tirelessly to raise awareness, push for better resources and educate others about the disease. One of my proudest moments was receiving an award from Leeza Gibbons for my work in Alzheimer’s advocacy—a recognition that underscored how far I had come in using my voice to make a difference.
One of the areas I’ve focused on is addressing brain health disparities in rural communities, which is exactly what USC Brain Health does. I’ve seen firsthand how stigma and a lack of resources prevent people from seeking the care they need. Specialists aren’t coming to rural areas unless we build the facilities to attract them, so I’ve embraced the mindset of “if you build it, they will come.” My vision is to help create a world-class Brain Health Network and Brain Health Center that will serve as beacons of hope for people across the state, offering the care and support they deserve.
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