

Shirley Nathan-Pulliam
The compelling autobiography of a nurse–turned–state senator determined to make health care equitable and available for all.
From her childhood in Jamaica to her early days in nursing and, eventually, to her entry into politics, Shirley Nathan-Pulliam has exemplified what it means to translate principles and values into action through legislation and advocacy. Saving Stella takes readers on her personal and political journey by highlighting the injustices faced by Stella, a woman diagnosed with breast cancer. The experience of helping Stella–a woman whose position in society denied her timely...
The compelling autobiography of a nurse–turned–state senator determined to make health care equitable and available for all.
From her childhood in Jamaica to her early days in nursing and, eventually, to her entry into politics, Shirley Nathan-Pulliam has exemplified what it means to translate principles and values into action through legislation and advocacy. Saving Stella takes readers on her personal and political journey by highlighting the injustices faced by Stella, a woman diagnosed with breast cancer. The experience of helping Stella–a woman whose position in society denied her timely diagnosis and treatment for her breast cancer—inspired much of Nathan-Pulliam's professional path. Her gripping accounts of political battles, strategic alliances, and landmark bills provide insight into the art of governance and politics and the power of courage, perseverance, and remarkable compassion in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Nathan-Pulliam's passion to ensure a future where people like Stella can get the care they need drives her tireless efforts to address health disparities and fight for meaningful change. Saving Stella is a poignant and thought-provoking autobiography that sheds light on the complex realities of health care and the profound impact of policy decisions. It is a testament to one woman's determination to make a difference and create a more equitable and compassionate health care system for all.
Retired State Senator Shirley Nathan-Pulliam exemplifies the best of the nursing profession. She has cared for countless individuals, their families, and their communities and her advocacy on behalf of others is unparalleled. As an elected official, she brought healthcare and health policy to the forefront, and using her knowledge and expertise as a nurse, she garnered the support of her colleagues to enact and fund solutions that truly made a difference. Her unwavering support for the city she loves and State of Maryland is deeply appreciated by all who know her or have benefited from her efforts.
Few people have had as much impact in the United States on health equity-focused policies as Senator Shirley Nathan-Pulliam. Her legislative achievements have blazed a clear path to a more equitable, healthy, and inclusive future.
Foreword, by Sir George Alleyne
Acknowledgments
Introduction: Meeting Stella
Part I: The Early Years
1. My First Life: Finding My Calling
2. Going to England
3. Coming to America
4. Learning the Modern
Foreword, by Sir George Alleyne
Acknowledgments
Introduction: Meeting Stella
Part I: The Early Years
1. My First Life: Finding My Calling
2. Going to England
3. Coming to America
4. Learning the Modern American View of Race: Understanding Disparities
Part II: Community Activism
5. Becoming a Community Activist
6. Early Response: Implementing Care
7. Later Response: The Path to Public Service
Part III: Key Legislative Initiatives: Health Disparities
8. Treating Cancers, One Bill at a Time
9. Health Care Disparities Prevention
10. Affordable Health Insurance for All
11. How Government Policies Sometimes Fuel Disparities
12. Education Equity Is Health Equity
13. Maternal and Infant Mortality
14. Beyond Health Care: Social Determinants of Health
15. Lasting Legacy and Advocacy
Notes
Index
with Hopkins Press Books