www.cardsbydrsharon.com
Published by Carlden Media, Marketing and Publishing www.carldenpublishing.com • Email to: info@carldenpublishing.com 10104 Senate Drive, Suite 228 Lanham, Maryland 20706 Phone: 301-731-8890 Fax: 301-731-8808
C
ards by Dr. Sharon is a new and ground breaking greeting card line. Described as “Cards with a Purpose,” “Cards by Dr. Sharon” are inspirational, comforting, and most of all, celebratory—all the things desired for the perfect greeting card. However, what is unique about this line of greeting cards is its direct link to wellness. It is the life mission of Sharon D. AllisonOttey, MD (Dr. Sharon), creator of the greeting card line, to provide valuable health information in a manner that positively impacts lives. She describes the cards as, “the cards that keep on giving.” This has deeper meaning because 10% of the purchase price of each card from the “Cards by Dr. Sharon” line will be donated to the Avon Foundation for Women to support its mission to improve the lives of women through its ongoing efforts to fight breast cancer and the devastating cycle of domestic violence. By giving “Cards by Dr. Sharon”—you not only give encouragement, a pat on the back, comfort, or special acknowledgement—you also give lifelong health and wellness information that will empower the recipient. On the back of each card is a unique informational section called, “A Moment of Health and Wellness” which provides valuable information about health and well-being for the card’s recipient. To learn more about “Cards by Dr. Sharon” visit www.cardsbydrsharon.com or call 301-731-8890. Carlden Media, Marketing and Publishing Inc. is the publisher of this innovative line.
The Unique Aspects and Opportunity with Cards by Dr. Sharon: A full line of cards for all occasions... Distinct graphics Quote, or inspirational messaging Original text in beautiful fonts which compliment the messaging
This is the signature of the line, and makes for a very special card that consumers will appreciate and for which they will search. It is indeed the “card that keeps on giving” because of the unique messages that relay health and wellness information to the fortunate recipient. The messages are NOT “clinical” but rather warm, inviting and informational which can be easily easily utilized in everyday life. The messages focus on various topics which include: general health/wellness, tips on talking to your doctor, depression, prevention, fitness, stress reduction and other important topics. “The Moment of Health & Wellness” section makes the card an active tool for the consumer as well as a treasured keepsake.
3
For Immediate Release
Contact: Chris Foster 202-530-4624
New Brand of Greeting Cards Introduces Wellness to Inspiration
Creator Dr. Sharon Allison-Ottey is Committed to Personal Health, Empowerment and Wellness Washington, DC – June 26, 2009 - - Carlden Media, Marketing and Publishing Group announced today the release of a new line of greeting cards with inspirational messages about health and wellness. The brainchild of Sharon Allison-Ottey, MD, this innovative card line is a natural extension of her recent fiction novels which have been coined “fiction with a purpose.” This new line of greeting cards will feature cards for every occasion, each with “A Moment of Health and Wellness” on the back. It is the life mission of Dr. Sharon to provide valuable health information in a manner that positively impacts lives. She describes the cards as “the cards that keep on giving.” Along with providing inspirational messages, 10 percent of the purchase price of each card from the “Cards by Dr. Sharon” line will be donated to the Avon Foundation for Women to support its mission to improve the lives of women through its ongoing efforts to fight breast cancer and end the devastating cycle of domestic violence. Currently the cards are available on the “Cards by Dr. Sharon” website at www.cardsbydrsharon.com and other selected venues. Plans for the broad distribution of the cards are underway. In the past three years, Dr. Sharon has published books that use storytelling to communicate critical health education and empowerment messages. Her first book, All I Ever Did Was Love Man, published by Hilton Publishing and released in December 2006, used the story of a young faithful, divorced, middle-aged, self-help woman to educate her readers of the dangers, risk factors and treatment options for HIV/AIDS. Her first publication was extremely successful and continues to be a favorite of reading groups, colleges, women and other organizations. She has plans for a series of seven books which will address health topics with intriguing fictional story lines. Additionally, she has authored a practical self help book, Is That Fried Chicken Wing Worth It?, about weight and lifestyle choices which will be released this month. A frequently requested speaker and writer, Dr. Sharon has a popular newsletter which provides information that is easily digestible and put into practice. “My goal with this new line extension is to use the greeting cards to provide personal health information, encouragement and uplifting messages for my readers,” says Dr. Sharon. “I want to provide useful, practical and relevant health messages in simple terms that everyone can understand.” According to Dr. Sharon, “These cards can be given to uplift, wish Happy Birthday, give condolences and express any sentiment. These cards can also be tucked away and taken to the doctor’s office and serve as a reminder that health is a personal responsibility.” “I am proud of what Dr. Sharon is doing through her novels and now her greeting cards, she continues to raise the bar and innovate for how to deliver useful health messages for those who follow her” says Dr. Randall Maxey, President of the Association of Minority Medical Associations. In addition to her publications and line of wellness cards with a purpose, Dr. Sharon is a frequent lecturer, health strategist, medical researcher and health literacy advocate. She is the Executive Director of The COSHAR Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to health outreach and education. You can learn more about the work of Dr. Sharon on her website: www.drsharononline.com. About the Avon Foundation for Women:
The Avon Foundation for Women was founded in 1955 to improve the lives of women and their families. The Avon Foundation currently brings this mission to life through two key areas of focus: breast cancer and domestic violence. Thanks to the support of generous and committed people worldwide, more than $660 million has been raised for these causes through 2008, with millions more being raised in 2009. For more information: avonfoundation.org.
n for undatio going on Fo its on the Av ted to through lence. is dona women domestic vio is card the lives of of th cle of g cy ove price to impr e devastatin rchase the pu mission d th 10% of pport its cancer and en su to Women fight breast to efforts
4
Type: Congratulatory Title: Congratulations I’m So Proud of You Target: General Purpose: To congratulate on accomplishment Sample of Text: Hard work, Dedication and Commitment has now rewarded you with achieving your Goal! A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Stress management and reduction Card Number: 001
Type: Congratulatory Title: Congratulations I’m So Proud of You Target: General Purpose: To congratulate on accomplishment Sample of Text: Take time to celebrate, you certainly earned it. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Stress management and reduction Card Number: 002
Type: Congratulatory Title: Congratulations I’m So Proud of You Target: General Purpose: To congratulate on accomplishment Sample of Text: I’m so proud of you and wish you many, many, many more successes! A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Stress management and reduction Card Number: 003
5
Type: Happy Birthday Title: Happy Birthday Target: General Purpose: Celebration of birthday Sample of Text: Another year has quickly passed; add another candle to your cake. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General wellness and prevention Card Number: 004
Type: Happy Birthday Title: My Birthday Wish for You Target: General Purpose: Celebration of birthday Sample of Text: My Wish for you is that of Love, Health, Wellness, Success, Peace…. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: A few “presents” from me—health/wellness reminders Card Number: 005
Type: Happy Birthday Title: Happy Birthday Target: General Purpose: Celebration of birthday Sample of Text: We live in today, we learn from yesterday and we look forward to tomorrow A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General wellness and prevention Card Number: 006
6
Type: Happy Birthday Title:Happy Birthday Celebrate and Reflect Target: General Purpose: Celebration of birthday Sample of Text: Today is your day for Celebration and Gratitude A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: A few health/ wellness tips for your life’s journey. Card Number: 007
Type: Happy Birthday Title: Happy Birthday to One of God’s Masterpieces Target: General Purpose: Celebration of birthday Sample of Text: Yes, you are one of His masterpieces still being crafted, molded and fine tuned. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health info and checklist that includes how to talk to your healthcare professional. Card Number: 008
Type: Happy Birthday Title: Happy Birthday to One of God’s Masterpieces Target: General Purpose: Celebration of birthday Sample of Text: You are wonderfully and creatively made. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health info and checklist that includes how to talk to your healthcare professional. Card Number: 009
7
Type: Encouragement Title: Heard that you’re feeling Blue Target: General Purpose: To encourage someone that is going through a difficult period. Sample of Text: I know that right now things are challenging for you, but this too shall pass. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Focus on mental health, with questionnaire and resources. Card Number: 010
Type: Encouragement Title: Heard that you’re feeling Blue Target: General Purpose: To encourage someone that is going through a difficult period. Sample of Text: Take a deep breath and rest in the assurance of knowing that a new day is coming. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Focus on mental health, with questionnaire and resources. Card Number: 011
Type: Encouragement Title: Heard that you’re feeling Blue Target: General Purpose: To encourage someone that is going through a difficult period. Sample of Text: I know that right now things are challenging…. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Focus on mental health, with questionnaire and resources. Card Number: 012
8
Type: Love Title: I Love You Fully Target: Male Purpose: Love for male Sample of Text: My heart is full of love for you A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health/ wellness Card Number: 013
Type: Love Title: I Love You Fully Target: Male Purpose: Love for Male Sample of Text: I don’t just love you with words‌ A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health/ wellness for men Card Number: 014
Type: Love Title: I Love You Fully Target: Male Purpose: Love for Male Sample of Text: I love you with the fullness of my being A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health/ wellness for men Card Number: 015
9
Type: Love Title: I Love You Fully Target: Female Purpose: Love for female Sample of Text: I don’t hesitate to share it or to show it A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health/ wellness for women Card Number: 016
Type: Love Title: I Love You Fully Target: Female Purpose: Love for female Sample of Text: I don’t just love you with words A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health/ wellness for women Card Number: 017
Type: Friendship Title: “One is not born a woman, one becomes one” Simone de Beauvoir Target: Female Purpose: Celebrate friendship Sample of Text: I call you my friend, but my heart and soul calls to you my beloved sister A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Breast health with recommended screening Card Number: 018
10
Type: Friendship Title: “One is not born a woman, one becomes one” Simone de Beauvoir Target: Female Purpose: Celebrate friendship Sample of Text: I wanted you to know today that I love you, I value you and I will always cherish our very special bond. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Breast health with recommended screening Card Number: 019
Type: Encouragement and Gratitude Title: Phenomenal Woman Target: Female Purpose: Tell someone how much you appreciate them. Can be friendship or love interest Sample of Text: There aren’t enough words full of the necessary richness A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Women’s health/ screening tips that can be taken to the doctor. Card Number: 020
Type: Encouragement and Gratitude Title: Phenomenal Woman Target: Female Purpose: Tell someone how much you appreciate them. Can be friendship or love interest Sample of Text: You’re marvelously, uniquely and phenomenally just you. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Women’s health/ screening tips that can be taken to the doctor. Card Number: 021
11
Type: Encouragement and Gratitude Title: Phenomenal Woman AKA Target: Female Purpose: Tell someone how much you appreciate them; can be friendship or love interest. This is a special group, members of a Greek letter organization (Alpha Kappa Alpha). Sample of Text: I’m so very grateful for You! A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Women’s health/ screening tips that can be taken to the doctor. Card Number: 022
Type: Encouragement and Gratitude Title: Phenomenal Woman DSQ Target: Female Purpose: Tell someone how much you appreciate them. Can be friendship or love interest. This is a special group, members of a Greek letter organization (Delta Sigma Theta). Sample of Text: That’s more than enough for me to love, admire and respect. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Women’s health/ screening tips that can be taken to the doctor. Card Number: 023
Type: Encouragement and Gratitude Title: Phenomenal Woman ZFB Target: Female Purpose: Tell someone how much you appreciate them. Can be friendship or love interest. This is a special group, members of a Greek letter organization (Zeta Phi Beta). Sample of Text: That’s more than enough for me to love, admire and respect. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Women’s health/ screening tips that can be taken to the doctor. Card Number: 024
12
Type: Encouragement in difficult situation Title: Take the Step Target: Female Purpose: Encourage women to take a step forward out of a difficult situation. Sample of Text: The journey of a thousand miles begins with just one single step. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Domestic violence resources Card Number: 025
Type: Comfort during difficult time/loss Title: Time Truly Does Heal All Wounds Target: General Purpose: Encourage persons that life gets better Sample of Text: I can’t tell you that you will ever truly be numb to the pain, but I can tell you that… A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Mental health/ depression info and resources Card Number: 026
Type: Comfort during difficult time/loss Title: Time Truly Does Heal All Wounds Target: General Purpose: Encourage persons that life gets better Sample of Text: Trust yourself and your emotions; don’t ignore them or try to be “strong” but don’t allow yourself to be stuck. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Mental health/ depression info and resources Card Number: 027
13
Type: Comfort /Sympathy Title: To Comfort You Target: General Purpose: Sympathy with loss of loved one Sample of Text: I wish that I could tell you that your hurt and loss will go away quickly, but I can’t A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: The stages of grief and resources Card Number: 028
Type: Comfort /Sympathy Title: To Comfort You Target: General Purpose: Sympathy with loss of loved one Sample of Text: I CAN tell you that time does ease the sharp, stabbing pain A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: The stages of grief and resources Card Number: 029
Type: Friendship Title: You are My Dearest Friend and My Family Target: General Purpose: To tell a friend how much you love and value them. Sample of Text: Time and life experiences have taught me the value of a true friend A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health/ wellness questions and challenge to being “health” buddy. Card Number: 030
14
Type: Friendship Title: You are My Dearest Friend and My Family Target: General Purpose: To tell a friend how much you love and value them. Sample of Text: You are my friend; time has forged a strong bond between us A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health/ wellness questions and challenge to being “health” buddy. Card Number: 031
Type: Friendship Title: You are My Dearest Friend and My Family Target: General Purpose: To tell a friend how much you love and value them. Sample of Text: You are my family; maybe not by blood, but certainly by our history. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health/ wellness questions and challenge to being “health” buddy. Card Number: 032
Type: Inspirational Encouragement Title: Beloved I Wish…. Target: General Purpose: To inspire and uplift Sample of Text: The journey of life has many twists and turns…. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Five general health and wellness tips. Card Number: 033
15
Type: Inspirational Encouragement Title: Beloved I Wish‌. Target: General Purpose: To inspire and uplift Sample of Text: Rest in the assurance that God is the ultimate physician and healer. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Five general health and wellness tips. Card Number: 034
Type: Inspirational Encouragement Title: Grasp the Mustard Seed Target: General Purpose: To encourage when things are going rough Sample of Text: It’s okay to have doubts and to sometimes feel afraid. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Seven Seeds for Better Health (general wellness/prevention message) Card Number: 035
Type: Inspirational Encouragement Title: God Grant You/Serenity Target: General Purpose: To inspire, uplift and encourage Sample of Text: It is my constant prayer for you that God grant you peace A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Mental health/ depression Card Number: 036
16
Type: Friendship Title: Just Because Target: General Purpose: To show appreciation for friendship Sample of Text: I know that it’s not your birthday. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health and wellness tips Card Number: 037
Type: Encouragement Title: Keep Stepping Target: General Purpose: Sample of Text: Failure and disappointment is just a “sidebar” to our eventual success. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Stress management and reduction Card Number: 038
Type: Inspirational Gratitude Title: Virtuous Woman Target: Female Purpose: Tell a special woman that appreciate and applaud her Sample of Text: Thank you for being such a Mighty Woman of God! A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Women’s health/ screening tips that can be taken to the doctor. Card Number: 039
17
Type: Happy Birthday Title: Happy 50th Birthday Target: Male Purpose: Celebration of 50th Birthday Sample of Text: Celebrate all that you’ve accomplished and all that you shall achieve. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Men’s health/ screening tips which are specific for 50-year-olds Card Number: 040
Type: Encouragement Title: Keep Stepping Target: General Purpose: To encourage and uplift Sample of Text: It’s hard when things aren’t working out the way that we planned. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Stress management and reduction Card Number: 041
Type: I’m Sorry Title: I’m Only Human and I Make Mistakes Target: General Purpose: To apologize and ask for forgiveness Sample of Text: I’m certainly not perfect by any stretch of the imagination. A Moment of Health and Wellness FocusStress management and reduction Card Number: 042
18
Type: Encouragement Title: Keep Stepping Target: General Purpose: To encourage and uplift Sample of Text: I refuse to believe that failure or giving up is an option. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Stress management and reduction Card Number: 043
Type: Encouragement Title: Hold On Target: General Purpose: To encourage and uplift Sample of Text: Hold on tight and let your desire, faith and commitment keep you going. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Stress management and reduction Card Number: 044
Type: Encouragement Title: Hold On Target: General Purpose: To encourage and uplift Sample of Text: You don’t have to conquer this war all at once, take it one small battle at a time. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Stress management and reduction Card Number: 045
19
Type: Thank You/Gratitude Title: My Sincere Gratitude Target: General Purpose: To show appreciation/thanks. Sample of Text: I’m truly touched and my heart is full of gratitude. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health and wellness information Card Number: 046
Type: Friendship Title: Our Amazing Friendship Target: Female Purpose: To tell a friend how much you love and value them. Sample of Text: Our friendship is a constant source of security for me; I know that I can trust you. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health and wellness information Card Number: 047
Type: Happy Birthday Title: Enjoy Your Special Day Target: General Purpose: Celebration of birthday Sample of Text: We live in today, we learn from yesterday and we look forward to tomorrow. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health and wellness information Card Number: 048
20
Type: Happy Birthday Title: Enjoy Your Special Day Target: General Purpose: Celebration of birthday Sample of Text: I wish you all of the Happiness, Joy, Love, Success and Peace that your life can hold! A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health and wellness information Card Number: 049
Type: Happy Birthday Title: Happy Birthday Target: General (although pink may work best for female) Purpose: Celebration of birthday Sample of Text: I wanted to join in the chorus of family and friends and say a joyous--A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: The benefits of physical activity. Card Number: 050
Type: Happy Birthday Title: Happy Birthday Target: General (although blue may work best for male) Purpose: Celebration of birthday Sample of Text: Today is a very special day. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: The benefits of physical activity. Card Number: 051
21
Type: Happy Birthday Title: Happy Birthday Target: General Purpose: Celebration of birthday Sample of Text: Birthdays are good for you. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: The benefits of physical activity. Card Number: 052
Type: Thank You Title: Thank You Target: General Purpose: To show appreciation/thanks. Sample of Text: I’ve tried to find a way to let you know that I appreciate your thoughtfulness. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health and wellness information. Card Number: 053
Type: Thank You Title: Thank You Target: General Purpose: To show appreciation/thanks. Sample of Text: I need you to know that I don’t take your kindness for granted. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Healthy eating and fitness. Card Number: 054
22
Type: Thank You Title: Thank You Target: General Purpose: To show appreciation/thanks. Sample of Text: In two little words that are Great Big words from me to you A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Healthy eating and fitness. Card Number: 055
Type: Thank You Title: Thank You Target: General Purpose: To show appreciation/thanks. Sample of Text: You didn’t have to but you did. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Information on prevention of heart disease. Card Number: 056
Type: Thank You Title: Thank You Target: General Purpose: To show appreciation/thanks. Sample of Text: Kindness of thought, word or deed is a gift for which I am eternally grateful. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Information on prevention of heart disease. Card Number: 057
23
Type: Thank You Title: Thank You Target: General Purpose: To show appreciation/thanks. Sample of Text: Feeling gratitude and not expressing it... A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Information on prevention of heart disease. Card Number: 058
Type: Thank You Title: Thank You Target: General Purpose: To show appreciation/thanks. Sample of Text: I am eternally grateful. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Information on prevention of heart disease. Card Number: 059
Type: Thank You Title: Thank You Target: General Purpose: To show appreciation/thanks. Sample of Text: You didn’t have to, but you did. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Information on prevention of heart disease. Card Number: 060
24
Type: Inspirational Title: Fruit of the Spirit Target: General Purpose: To inspire and uplift Sample of Text: The fruit of the Spirit is alive and growing for all to see in you. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Healthy eating and fitness Card Number: 061
Type: Friendship Title: Our Amazing Friendship Target: Female Purpose: To tell a friend how much you love and value them. Sample of Text: You’ve been there during my darkest nights and my wonderfully bright days. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health and wellness information. Card Number: 062
Type: Thank You Title: Thank You Target: General Purpose: To show appreciation/thanks. Sample of Text: I’ve tried to find a way to let you know that I appreciate your thoughtfulness. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Healthy eating and fitness. Card Number: 063
25
Type: Thank You Title: Thank You Target: General Purpose: To show appreciation/thanks. Sample of Text: “How beautiful a day can be when kindness touches it” A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: Healthy eating and fitness. Card Number: 064
Type: Friendship Title: Just Because Target: General Purpose: To show appreciation for friendship Sample of Text: No, there’s no traditional reason for me to give you this card. A Moment of Health and Wellness Focus: General health and wellness tips Card Number: 065
The Team: Creator, Creative Director and Lead Author: Sharon Denise Allison-Ottey, MD
Graphic Artists:
Creative Assistant: Thomas E. Allison
Ashley Coleman
Editorial Assistant: Cheryl Buchman
Juliana Doan
Executive Assistant to Dr. Sharon: Sherri Warren
Ronda Quillen
Website Designer: Rachelle Gould-Harris
Crystal Ware
Public & Media Relations: Chris Foster
Granville Woodson
Alexis McDowell, Lead Artist
26
Boxed Assortments Be ready to bring a smile or to brighten one’s day with the “cards that keep on giving.” “Cards by Dr. Sharon” have created several collections of our favorite cards for Birthdays, Thank-You, Comfort/ Sympathy, Encouragement, and Friendship. These cards are separated by “collections” which you will treasure. “Cards by Dr. Sharon” offers boxed assortments of cards specially priced and packaged to meet the consumer’s needs. These boxed sets come with ten (10) cards and are nicely packaged in a clear-topped, gold foiled box with a “Cards by Dr. Sharon” label. Collection #1: Thank You Collection #2: Happy Birthday Collection #3: Thank you, Appreciation, Encouragement and Just Because Collection #4: Thank You, Appreciation, Happy Birthday, Comfort/Sympathy, Encouragement/Friendship and Just Because Collection #5: Inspirational Cards; Thank You, Happy Birthday, Comfort/ Sympathy, Encouragement/Friendship and Just Because
Meet Dr. Sharon
C
reator of the Card Line: Sharon Denise Allison-Ottey, MD is an energetic and engaging speaker, author, health educator/ physician and health strategist/consultant. Dr. Allison-Ottey serves as Executive Director of The COSHAR Foundation. The foundation is a 501c 3 organization focused on impacting the health of the world, one community at a time. Under her leadership, the foundation has expanded its presence and impact with innovative programs that have touched millions of lives. Dr. Allison-Ottey completed a three year residency program in Internal Medicine (Adult Medicine) at Union Memorial Hospital. It was during her residency training that she developed a keen interest in the elderly and subsequently completed an additional two year fellowship in Geriatric Medicine (adults over 65) at the same institution. She received her medical degree from East Carolina University School of Medicine. Dr. Allison-Ottey is a proud alumna of North Carolina Central University where she earned dual degrees in Biology and Chemistry with minors in Physics, African American History and English with honors. Dr. Allison-Ottey is an avid medical researcher with numerous publications and presentations. She was named the American Geriatric Society’s 1999 Investigator of the Year in recognition of her pioneering work in AIDS in the Elderly and was one of the first in the world to publish on this topic. Throughout her career she’s been involved actively with biomedical research and has served as a Scientific Consultant in Neurobehavioral Toxicology to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Additionally, she has been engaged in several research collaborations that include the Johns Hopkins Urban Health Institute, the Gallup Organization and other academic, private, and public organizations. Her current research interests include Health Literacy, Patient/Physician Communication, the Role of Spirituality in Medical Outcomes, Direct to Consumer Marketing’s effect on Physicians and Patients, and Patient Adherence/ Compliance with Medical Treatment. Dr. Allison-Ottey is a nationally recognized lecturer/speaker for healthcare professionals. She addresses various topics which include but are not limited to: health literacy, women’s health, health disparities and cultural competency, the role of faith based organizations in healthcare, direct to consumer advertisements and health in an aging population. She provides invaluable insight and guidance to the numerous commissions, advisory boards and committees on which she serves. She is a consultant for several Fortune 500 companies and is also frequently invited to give expert testimony/advice to government and other organizations. Dr. Allison-Ottey is recognized for her unique and articulate views on public health policy. She is an advocate for improved healthcare for all and for the elimination of health disparities based on gender, race and/or socioeconomic status. Further, she’s viewed by many as a tireless champion for expanded access to healthcare for the elderly. In recognition for her commitment to health education and reduction in health disparities among minority populations and women, she was honored by Aetna Inc. and featured in the 25th Anniversary Edition of its African American History Calendar. Dr. Sharon Allison-Ottey is active with numerous medical, political and civic organizations. She has served on the Board of Trustees of the National Medical Association (NMA) and as Chair
of the Council on the Concerns of Women Physicians. She was a founding board member of the Partnership for Clear Health Communications which focused on improving health literacy in the United States. Dr. Allison-Ottey’s professional affiliations include the American Medical Association, American College of Physicians, American Geriatric Society, International AIDS Society and numerous other organizations. Dr. Allison-Ottey has received many awards and citations from organizations and the community; however one of the most notable is being the youngest to ever receive the Scroll of Merit of the NMA in 2002. This award is the highest award of the association and Dr. Allison-Ottey was cited for her service to the organization, research and commitment to the health education of the nation. Additionally, she is the first female to be awarded the title Chairman Emeritus of the Student National Medical Association (SNMA). In 2006 she received the Council Award from the Council on the Concerns of Women Physicians in recognition for her significant achievements in medicine and contributions to issues of women’s health. Dr. Allison-Ottey has been further humbled by the National Library of Medicine/ American Medical Woman’s Association’s designation as a Local Legend in Medicine and her inclusion in the national exhibit entitled: Changing the Face of Medicine: Celebrating America’s Women Physicians. She continues to receive national and state recognition for her work and passion and in 2004 and 2008 Dr. Allison-Ottey was named to the Top 100 Women in Maryland. Dr. Allison-Ottey has appeared on Black Entertainment Television (BET) as well as other local and national television programs. She co-hosted a popular radio program for several years and is a frequent guest on nationally syndicated, as well as regional/local radio programs across the country. Dr. Allison-Ottey is the monthly writer of Gospel Today magazine’s, Health in Action column. She’s been quoted and interviewed by several print publications including Redbook, Essence, Heart and Soul, Jet, Ebony, USA Today, Black Enterprise, The Wall Street Journal and numerous other media outlets. Because of the colorful and “down to earth” manner in which she addresses health, relationships and offers motivation; Dr. AllisonOttey is a well-recognized and requested speaker for conferences, universities/schools, churches, corporations, community groups and a host of other outlets. One of Dr. Allison-Ottey’s passions is writing and she introduced a new genre to the world of fiction, “fiction with a purpose” with her first novel, All I Ever Did Was Love a Man with the sequel, My Breaking Heart to be released later this year. She also wrote a nonfiction/self-help book entitled; Is That Fried Chicken Wing Worth It? In 2009, the full greeting card line, “Cards by Dr. Sharon” was launched; they are indeed “Cards with a Purpose.” Visit Dr. Sharon at www.drsharononline.com. Contact Information: Sharon D. Allison-Ottey, MD, www.drsharononline.com Phone: 301-773-4811 Email: drsharon@sharondeniseallisonottey.com