Karen Russell’s ’94, Twitter page describes her as “an internist, a mother, a mentor and a Jamaican Canadian imported (sic) to America.” What do those depictions mean to her? “They give me a sensitivity to other people, including people from other cultures and other countries,” explained Karen. Her thoughtfulness towards individuals and all ethnicities adds dimensions in her day-to-day undertakings as a neurologist.
Karen’s journey to the field of medicine was not linear. However, her love of science has been constant. It started in elementary school. She recalled when she began to fancy science. “I remember my mother was studying to be a phlebotomist and I remember looking at her books. They were colorful, and full of blood vessels and arteries.” It wasn’t until Karen came to Coppin as a student athlete for the women’s basketball team that she decided to explore science as a General Science major. “At the time,” she said, “I didn't think I wanted to be a doctor. I really wanted to be a Marine biologist. I love the water. So, I figured it kind would be a natural fit.”
Growing up, Karen shared that she did not see or interact with many African American doctors. “It wasn’t until I got to Coppin and calling my professors Dr. X or Dr. Y. It gave me a sense of pride and increased my desire for excellence.” Now she is among an elitist group within the medical profession. Karen is one of the country’s few African American neurologists. According to Zippia.com, less than 4% of all neurosurgeons in the United States are Black/African American. “I don’t think we’re unicorns anymore.”
The young doctor worked for a major health system for 11 years before branching out on her own. As a neurologist, “we can sub specialize in anything we want. So within in my company I have different arms. I have the internal medicine arm where I do my practice. I focus in weight management, where I treat diabetics, hypertensive, cholesterol, kidney failure. I do it all. But I find that obesity is one of the leading causes of a lot of the problems with hypertension and diabetes.”
Karen takes pride in her staff. They are known for providing exceptional service, especially amongst the African American population. “They [African Americans] don’t have a general trust for doctors,” she admittedly shared. She wants her patients to feel good about coming to her office, knowing that they are in trusted hands. Understanding that mistrust and hesitancy, inspired Karen to use her minor in chemistry to diversify her practice. “I’m getting my certificate in plant-based medicine, because a lot of us want something other than big pharma medications.” Karen also has a line of organic African American skincare products. “As a black woman, I know what my needs are, and I know there’s a similarity with all of us. Our skin is sensitive. I’m very hands-on with what goes into the products.”
Look for Dr. Karen Russell’s skincare line at https://www.amitytotalbodycare.com
