… Each of us is responsible for our own happiness; it is through establishing interpersonal relationships that we find our purpose and meaning.
The term Blue Zones has been used to describe places where people live long and healthy lives. What exactly does it take to live a long and healthy life? What is the science and the secret behind longevity and life extension? In this series, we are talking to medical experts, wellness experts, and longevity experts to share “5 Things You Need To Live A Long, Healthy, & Happy Life”. As a part of this series, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Dr. Brandy Williams.
Dr. Brandy Williams grew up on the southside of Houston, Tx, where she attended Evan E. Worthing High School and developed her love for science. She has always had a quest for knowledge and continued learning, so during her high school tenure, Dr. Williams attended a Summer Science for Seniors program as a cardiology and pharmaceutics research team member. This summer of research incited her to attain a degree in pharmaceutical sciences. With her goals set high, Dr. Williams enrolled at Texas Southern University. After graduating, she began her career at CVS Pharmacy and soon realized that becoming a full-time entrepreneur was her calling and God-given gift. Dr. Williams is the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of We Care Rx, a Texas-based retail pharmacy located in Memorial City, established in December 2017. We Care Rx is a full-service retail pharmacy specializing in patient-specific compounding and specialty medication. While continuing to pour into the lives of her patients and employees, Dr. Williams has readily brought her time and talents back to her Alma Mater, Texas Southern University. She eagerly serves as a Philanthropist who stands ready to share her passion and knowledge in Pharmaceutical Science in the very classrooms where all her dreams began.
Thank you so much for joining us! Our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your ‘backstory’?
I am a native Houstonian who grew up in Sunnyside and attended Evan E. Worthing Senior High School, graduating number 3 in the class of 2001. I furthered my studies at Texas Southern University, graduating Summa Cum Laude from the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in 2007. I have been a practicing pharmacist for 15 years.
Can you share with us the most interesting story from your career? Can you tell us what lessons or ‘takeaways’ you learned from that?
After being a pharmacist for 12 years, I had a mis-fill while working at CVS Pharmacy. I was devasted, to say the least. The patient was ok and very understanding; however, I was not ok. I take pharmacy practice very seriously and pride myself on being alert, knowledgeable, and precise in my verification process. My pharmacy supervisor was very nonchalant and stated, “shit happens.” I turned in my two weeks’ notice and pursued WE Care Rx Pharmacy full-time.
I learned two things: when God is ready for you to transition, He will make the situation uncomfortable, causing you to walk away from the situation He’s released you from and never let anyone control your destiny.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?
God blessed me with a very supportive mother to help me journey through life. Whether it was quitting her job to help me raise my children or becoming a registered pharmacy technician to help in the success of We Care Rx, my mom is definitely “Team Bee.”
You are a successful leader. Which three-character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
Dedication, perseverance, and resilience — I opened We Care Rx in December 2017, and my beautiful daughter was conceived in January 2018. During this pregnancy, I was extremely sick; yet I was the CEO, Pharmacist-in-charge, technician, marketer, cashier, and delivery driver. I had two choices give up or overcome. Today, my beautiful daughter and We Care Rx Pharmacy are growing and thriving.
Ok, thank you for all that. Now let’s shift to the main focus of our interview about health and longevity. To begin, can you share with our readers a bit about why you are an authority in the fields of health, wellness, and longevity? In your opinion, what is your unique contribution to the world of wellness?
Through We Care Rx, I can bring patient care back to the forefront of pharmacy. It is important to create an environment where patients feel comfortable communicating their health-related questions or concerns.
I uniquely contribute to the world of wellness through patient advocacy and community awareness.
Seekers throughout history have traveled great distances and embarked on mythical quests in search of the “elixir of life,” a mythical potion said to cure all diseases and give eternal youth. Has your search for health, vitality, and longevity taken you on any interesting paths or journeys? We’d love to hear the story.
Because I was fortunate enough to attend pharmacy school, I learned that the key to health and longevity is creating a healthy lifestyle through nutrients and exercise. Certain foods provide the nutrients needed to sustain life, and exercise can improve brain health, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve immunity.
Based on your research or experience, can you please share your “5 Things You Need To Live A Long & Healthy Life”? (Please share a story or an example for each)
- Nutritional Diet — Taking the time to enjoy a balanced meal instead of eating on the go and supplementing nutrients missed in your diet with juicing.
- Exercise or daily physical activity — Brisk walks are a great activity to stimulate the heart rate and release the necessary endorphins needed to balance the body.
- Mental Stability — Creating healthy outlets, taking mental breaks, and self-care are essential in maintaining mental health.
- Spiritual Connection with God — A Spiritual relationship with God is necessary to maintain physical, mental, and emotional health. All three of these are imperative to longevity and wellness.
- Vital Relationships — God created us to be interactive beings, and no one can journey life alone.
Can you suggest a few things needed to live a life filled with happiness, joy, and meaning?
Each of us is responsible for our own happiness; it is through establishing interpersonal relationships that we find our purpose and meaning.
Some argue that longevity is genetic, while others say that living a long life is simply a choice. What are your thoughts on this nature vs. nurture debate? Which is more important?
We all have an expiration date designed by the creator; however, we can nurture the life we’ve been given by maintaining healthy lifestyles. I firmly believe in being a good steward of God’s gifts.
Life sometimes takes us on paths that are challenging. How have you managed to bounce back from setbacks in order to cultivate physical, mental, and emotional health?
Faith, family, and friends! When faced with adversity, my faith is strengthened, and I am committed to hard work and dedication in order to persevere and win.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Do you have a story about how that was relevant in your life?
“If they close the door, kick it down, go around, but never give up.”
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
Always give back! We are blessed to be a blessing. The most important thing is helping future generations; I have created The Nicole Leonard Foundation, which provides scholarships, college tours, and career insight for high school and college students.
What is the best way for our readers to continue to follow your work online?
Website: www.mywecarerx.com
Instagram: mywecarerx
Dr.bwilliams
Facebook: mywecarerx
Brandy Dominique Williams
LinkedIn: Brandy Williams
This was very inspiring. Thank you so much for the time you spent on this. We wish you only continued success.