Significant health challenges have profoundly shaped Raquelle Akavan's journey, fueling her passion for empowering physician assistants (PAs) and mothers in healthcare and inspiring the creation of PA Moms. From a young age, Raquelle faced severe medical issues, undergoing multiple surgeries related to her ovaries. This early exposure to the healthcare system and her experiences in and out of the hospital ignited her desire to help others and fostered a deep interest in medicine.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

However, Raquelle's life took a dramatic turn four years ago when she suffered a stroke. This life-altering event occurred midway through her career and gave her a new perspective on life and her professional journey. During her recovery, she recognized the importance of support and community, which led her to focus on empowering other PAs and mothers. This experience was pivotal in her decision to transition from clinical practice to academia, where she could shape the next generation of PAs and advocate for their needs.

Raquelle's passion for supporting PAs and mothers culminated in creating PA Moms, a community that has grown significantly, now boasting nearly 20,000 members. Through this organization, she aims to provide resources, scholarships, and a supportive network for PAs, particularly those who are also mothers. Raquelle's experiences with health challenges have fueled her desire to help others and highlighted the importance of self-care and understanding one's values in making career decisions.

This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for business owners.