Latest news with #UniversityofAlabamaatBirmingham
10-07-2025
- Health
Mom welcomes triplets after 10 years of thinking she couldn't have any more kids
An Alabama mom welcomed triplets this year after thinking for nearly 10 years that she couldn't have any more kids. Brittany Ingram, 36, and her husband Josh Ingram, 34, of Deatsville, Alabama, had their eldest child, a son named JB, in 2015. In February this year, the couple welcomed identical triplet daughters Emersyn Claire, Adalyn Renae and Layla Michele. Brittany Ingram's triplet pregnancy was a shock the couple hadn't seen coming. However, the mom of four said she had dreamt she would have triplets before her doctor confirmed her second pregnancy. "I had a dream we were having triplets. I woke up and told my husband … He said, 'Oh my gosh. What would we do? Don't dream stuff like that,'" Ingram recalled to "Good Morning America.""When we went to [get] the … ultrasound … [the doctor] said, 'There's three babies. I've never seen this before. We studied about it in school but we've never seen three babies.'" "[My husband and I] were both just, like, excited, scared and it took us a few days to process it," she continued. "None of our family believed us when we came home and told them." The family had a valid reason to be shocked by the happy news. Ingram said she had been diagnosed with endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, in 2015, conditions where there is abnormal tissue growth in the uterus and cysts develop on the ovaries. Both endometriosis and PCOS can impact a woman's reproductive health and lead to infertility, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The stay-at-home mom told "GMA" she underwent a laparoscopy to remove cysts in 2015, and when she and her husband got pregnant naturally the first time, they were surprised. Ingram said doctors then told her she would have to undergo more surgeries or turn to fertility treatments in the future if she wanted to get pregnant again. "After JB, we tried again a few more times, and I had a miscarriage, and it just didn't work -- and that was so heartbreaking," said Ingram. "We were just kind of leaving it up to God, and saying, 'If it's meant to be, it'll be. If it's not, it won't,'" she added. "So, after 10 years, we just thought JB was going to be our one and only [child]." In August 2024, everything changed for the Ingrams. Brittany Ingram took a pregnancy test the week of her 36th birthday and then visited her obstetrician to confirm she was indeed pregnant, where she learned she was expecting triplets. Ingram's triplet pregnancy was considered high-risk because of her higher maternal age and the type of triplet pregnancy she had, according to Dr. Ayodeji Sanusi, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and one of Ingram's doctors, who called the pregnancy "extremely rare." "All three babies shared a single placenta -- a condition known as monochorionic triamniotic triplets," Sanusi told "GMA" via email. "This occurs when one fertilized egg splits twice, resulting in three fetuses with one shared placenta. It's an extremely rare phenomenon, with an estimated incidence of only 1 in 100,000 to 200,000 pregnancies." Ingram said at 19 weeks, doctors told her to go on bed rest, and then at 22 weeks, she went into early labor. Doctors treated her with a cerclage, a type of surgery where surgeons temporarily sew the cervix closed to help prolong a pregnancy, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. "In select cases -- like Brittany's -- when the cervix begins to dilate painlessly in the second trimester, limited data suggest that cerclage placement may help prolong the pregnancy," said Sanusi. "After a thorough and thoughtful discussion with her and her partner about the risks, benefits, and uncertainties of cerclage in this context, they chose to proceed. We believe the cerclage played a significant role in helping her carry the pregnancy to 30 weeks, when the babies were safely delivered." Ingram said after delivery, she experienced complications, including postpartum preeclampsia, cardiomyopathy and heart failure, so she was re-admitted to the hospital for treatment, and doctors were able to stabilize her and prescribe her medications. The triplets also had to stay in the hospital's neonatal intensive care unit for about two months before they could go home. Now, Ingram said the triplets are all "perfectly healthy," according to their pediatrician, and all four of the Ingram kids are adjusting to their new life together. For other families facing infertility, Ingram said she wanted to share her story to encourage them to have hope. "Don't give up. There's always hope," she said. "Just because it's not on your timing doesn't mean it's not ever going to happen."
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Mom welcomes triplets after 10 years of thinking she couldn't have any more kids
An Alabama mom welcomed triplets this year after thinking for nearly 10 years that she couldn't have any more kids. Brittany Ingram, 36, and her husband Josh Ingram, 34, of Deatsville, Alabama, had their eldest child, a son named JB, in 2015. In February this year, the couple welcomed identical triplet daughters Emersyn Claire, Adalyn Renae and Layla Michele. Brittany Ingram's triplet pregnancy was a shock the couple hadn't seen coming. However, the mom of four said she had dreamt she would have triplets before her doctor confirmed her second pregnancy. "I had a dream we were having triplets. I woke up and told my husband … He said, 'Oh my gosh. What would we do? Don't dream stuff like that,'" Ingram recalled to "Good Morning America." "When we went to [get] the … ultrasound … [the doctor] said, 'There's three babies. I've never seen this before. We studied about it in school but we've never seen three babies.'" 2 sets of triplets born months apart to different families share same last name "[My husband and I] were both just, like, excited, scared and it took us a few days to process it," she continued. "None of our family believed us when we came home and told them." The family had a valid reason to be shocked by the happy news. Ingram said she had been diagnosed with endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, in 2015, conditions where there is abnormal tissue growth in the uterus and cysts develop on the ovaries. Both endometriosis and PCOS can impact a woman's reproductive health and lead to infertility, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The stay-at-home mom told "GMA" she underwent a laparoscopy to remove cysts in 2015, and when she and her husband got pregnant naturally the first time, they were surprised. Ingram said doctors then told her she would have to undergo more surgeries or turn to fertility treatments in the future if she wanted to get pregnant again. "After JB, we tried again a few more times, and I had a miscarriage, and it just didn't work -- and that was so heartbreaking," said Ingram. "We were just kind of leaving it up to God, and saying, 'If it's meant to be, it'll be. If it's not, it won't,'" she added. "So, after 10 years, we just thought JB was going to be our one and only [child]." In August 2024, everything changed for the Ingrams. Brittany Ingram took a pregnancy test the week of her 36th birthday and then visited her obstetrician to confirm she was indeed pregnant, where she learned she was expecting triplets. Ingram's triplet pregnancy was considered high-risk because of her higher maternal age and the type of triplet pregnancy she had, according to Dr. Ayodeji Sanusi, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and one of Ingram's doctors, who called the pregnancy "extremely rare." Fewer triplets are being born in the US. Researchers have a theory as to why "All three babies shared a single placenta -- a condition known as monochorionic triamniotic triplets," Sanusi told "GMA" via email. "This occurs when one fertilized egg splits twice, resulting in three fetuses with one shared placenta. It's an extremely rare phenomenon, with an estimated incidence of only 1 in 100,000 to 200,000 pregnancies." Ingram said at 19 weeks, doctors told her to go on bed rest, and then at 22 weeks, she went into early labor. Doctors treated her with a cerclage, a type of surgery where surgeons temporarily sew the cervix closed to help prolong a pregnancy, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. "In select cases -- like Brittany's -- when the cervix begins to dilate painlessly in the second trimester, limited data suggest that cerclage placement may help prolong the pregnancy," said Sanusi. "After a thorough and thoughtful discussion with her and her partner about the risks, benefits, and uncertainties of cerclage in this context, they chose to proceed. We believe the cerclage played a significant role in helping her carry the pregnancy to 30 weeks, when the babies were safely delivered." Ingram said after delivery, she experienced complications, including postpartum preeclampsia, cardiomyopathy and heart failure, so she was re-admitted to the hospital for treatment, and doctors were able to stabilize her and prescribe her medications. The triplets also had to stay in the hospital's neonatal intensive care unit for about two months before they could go home. Now, Ingram said the triplets are all "perfectly healthy," according to their pediatrician, and all four of the Ingram kids are adjusting to their new life together. For other families facing infertility, Ingram said she wanted to share her story to encourage them to have hope. "Don't give up. There's always hope," she said. "Just because it's not on your timing doesn't mean it's not ever going to happen."
Business Journals
07-07-2025
- Business
- Business Journals
How Birmingham businesses are managing risk in 2025
Birmingham business owners are no strangers to risk, but the current climate of market uncertainty and economic fluctuation is prompting many leaders in Alabama's largest economic region to reevaluate their risk management strategies. While some leaders may be hesitant to make decisions, others are embracing this time as an opportunity to prepare for future growth. In fact, Valley's 2025 State of Business Survey found that 86% of businesses expect their revenue to increase by 10% or more this year. Rather than taking a reactive approach, savvy Birmingham business leaders are proactively maintaining liquidity and securing credit capacity to navigate risks and better position themselves for long-term growth. The Birmingham region is well-positioned for future success, thanks to its diversified economy and deep pool of talent. According to the City of Birmingham, the metro area is home to more than 18,000 automotive workers and 20,000 skilled metals and machinery professionals. That kind of workforce advantage fuels both innovation and stability across key industries. Birmingham pros and cons In addition to Birmingham's growing population, one of its greatest assets is its economic diversity. While its flourishing economy eases the impact of macroeconomic factors including interest rates and inflation, local business leaders still face regional challenges that require thoughtful planning. Historically recognized for its robust steel and manufacturing industries, Birmingham has also experienced significant expansion in healthcare, finance and logistics. Its strategic location – along with its proximity to the University of Alabama at Birmingham – has bolstered healthcare innovation and talent development. Financial institutions also maintain a strong presence here, reinforcing Birmingham's role as a financial hub in the Southeast. At the same time, some of the very industries that help drive the region's growth also introduce complexity. Recent tariff policies have disrupted international trade and created ripple effects across supply chains, particularly in manufacturing and logistics. These challenges underscore the importance of having a comprehensive risk management strategy including operational redundancies and proactive financial action in order to remain quick and nimble in a reactive market. Five long-term resilience strategies Consider implementing the following strategies to ensure your business is prepared now for future risks: 1. Engage with your banker: The sooner you share updates with your banker, the quicker they can help you pivot operations. Without a strong relationship, it may take longer to secure financing – potentially leading to missed opportunities. A trusted banking partner can also connect you with strategic partners, advisors and suppliers. 2. Strengthen your balance sheet: Maintain a strong balance sheet by retaining cash reserves, paying down debts or reducing spending. A strong balance sheet provides businesses with a valuable forecasting tool and enables well-informed, timely decisions. 3. Proactively increase credit capacity: The best time to secure credit capacity is before you actually need it. Having credit readily available is key to reacting to crises that may require swift action as well as taking advantage of growth opportunities down the road. 4. Implement operational redundancies: While tariff policies continue to fluctuate, it's important to avoid rash decisions. Instead, create a strong and diverse network of suppliers including domestically. This is especially important to increase redundancies when faced with evolving tariff policies. 5. Build a talent pipeline: In Valley Bank's 2025 State of Business Survey, 42% of business leaders state that finding good employees is a major challenge. Treat recruiting like a sales function — continually building relationships with potential candidates. Tap into Birmingham's skilled labor base and build partnerships with local universities and trade programs. Take advantage of a strong banking relationship As you're planning for the second half of 2025 and beyond, business relationships are a key component to long-term success. A strong relationship with a banking partner is not just a financial lifeline, it's a competitive advantage. Valley Bank shares mutual goals with clients – reduce uncertainty on your balance sheet and increase profitability. Valley's Birmingham Commercial Banking team empowers clients with local industry expertise while utilizing its national strength and capabilities. For example, we leverage our regional partners to augment custom solutions and better position clients for stronger cash flow now and profitability into the future. This differentiation helps drive value for clients especially as we're able to look beyond a transactional level of a business' needs. Our team recently supported a local transportation company as they continue to expand operations. Valley's Commercial Banking team provided a $20 million credit facility for equipment purchases, ensuring they have the equipment needed to match demand. Long-term business resiliency isn't built in the moment of need – it's built through planning. Valley Bank's Commercial Banking team is here to understand your business' goals and unique challenges. As we move into the second half of the year, now is an ideal time to reach out to your local team to create or revise your risk management strategy. As the principal subsidiary of Valley National Bancorp, Valley National Bank is a regional bank with nearly $64 billion in assets. Valley operates many convenient branch locations and commercial banking offices across New Jersey, New York, Florida, Alabama, California, and Illinois and is committed to providing the most convenient service, the latest innovations and an experienced and knowledgeable team dedicated to meeting customer needs. To learn more about Valley, go to © 2025 Valley National Bank. Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender. All Rights Reserved.
Business Upturn
03-07-2025
- Health
- Business Upturn
Dr. Omar Massoud Scholarship for Future Doctors Announces Application Period for Aspiring Physicians Nationwide
CLEVELAND, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Dr. Omar Massoud Scholarship for Future Doctors proudly announces the opening of its 2026 application cycle, offering undergraduate students across the United States a unique opportunity to advance their medical education journeys. Established to support promising future physicians, the scholarship reflects Dr. Omar Massoud's dedication to medical excellence, mentorship, and improving healthcare outcomes for communities around the globe. The Dr. Omar Massoud Scholarship for Future Doctors is designed to identify and encourage students who demonstrate academic achievement, a commitment to patient-centered care, and a strong vision for their future in medicine. Eligible applicants must be currently enrolled as undergraduate students at accredited colleges or universities, with academic pathways that align with careers in medicine, including pre-medical studies, biology, health sciences, or related fields. Dr. Omar Massoud, a respected physician-scientist with more than three decades of clinical, academic, and research expertise, served as Associate Professor of Medicine and Director of Clinical Liver Research at the University of Alabama at Birmingham from 2009 to 2020. His distinguished background in internal medicine and hepatology has contributed to significant advancements in liver disease treatment and medical education. Dr. Massoud's commitment to nurturing the next generation of doctors was the driving force behind establishing this scholarship, with a focus on supporting education rooted in compassion and scientific rigor. To apply, candidates must submit an original essay between 800 and 1,000 words addressing the following prompt: 'Describe how your personal experiences have influenced your decision to pursue a career in medicine. How do you envision using your medical education to improve healthcare outcomes in your community or globally?' Essays must be written in English and submitted in either PDF or Word format. Only one essay submission per applicant will be considered, and any form of plagiarism will result in disqualification. The scholarship awards a one-time grant of $1,000 to a deserving undergraduate student who exemplifies Dr. Omar Massoud's values of excellence, empathy, and community impact. The application deadline for the Dr. Omar Massoud Scholarship for Future Doctors is April 15, 2026, with the winner announced on May 15, 2026. Through this scholarship, Dr. Omar Massoud aims to continue investing in the future of medicine by encouraging thoughtful, motivated, and socially responsible students to pursue their dreams of becoming physicians. Dr. Omar Massoud's lifelong commitment to bridging research discoveries with compassionate patient care has inspired countless students, colleagues, and patients throughout his distinguished career. From his formative education at Al-Azhar University in Cairo to advanced training at top U.S. institutions such as Case Western Reserve University, the Medical College of Wisconsin, and the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Massoud has devoted his life to education, mentorship, and medical advancement. The Dr. Omar Massoud Scholarship for Future Doctors stands as a testament to his vision for a healthcare system strengthened by a new generation of well-prepared, dedicated physicians. Students nationwide are encouraged to apply and contribute their voices and ideas to the future of medicine. For detailed scholarship guidelines and to apply, students can visit the official website: Contact Information: Spokesperson: Dr. Omar Massoud Organization: Dr. Omar Massoud Scholarship Website: Email: [email protected] A photo accompanying this announcement is available at Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Black America Web
18-06-2025
- Politics
- Black America Web
Black Teen Brandon Moss Announces Candidacy For Mayor In Alabama Town
Source: Brandon Moss Facebook / Brandon Moss Facebook In a story that sounds ripped from DC Comics, a Black teenager who recently graduated from high school has announced his candidacy for mayor in the Alabama town of Fairfield. According to ABC News, 18-year-old Brandon Moss is the youngest mayoral candidate in Fairfield history. Moss only graduated from high school two weeks ago and is currently preparing to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham in the Fall. 'I am ready to take on this challenge. Age doesn't guarantee wisdom or innovation,' Moss told ABC News. 'I'm not going to say I'm perfect or I know it all; it will take a team of good people to be able to accomplish good things.' Brandon Moss has said that if he's elected, he would focus on the city's spending and would bring in a forensic auditor to go through the city's finances. He would also support local small businesses by setting up pop-up shops in the mall to attract new clientele. Beyond business, he also wants to improve the quality of life in Fairfield by tackling the issue of blight. Moss intends to work with the federal government to provide Fairfield with grants to clear the overgrown vegetation from abandoned homes. Considering how the federal government has been moving when it comes to funding initiatives that help everyday Americans, he might want to revise that plan. Just saying. Brandon Moss has long had an interest in the inner workings of politics. While in high school, he worked with the Alabama Youth and Government program as both a youth senator and a member of the governor's cabinet. He served on the Student Advisory Board for the superintendent of Birmingham City Schools and graduated from the Birmingham Academy of Civic Engagement. So at the very least, he's got more relevant governing experience than our current President did when he got elected the first time. His campaign manager, Marilyn Yelder, is confident in his leadership abilities and doesn't see his age as a potential hindrance. She also made it clear that he wouldn't be doing this alone, so his college education wouldn't be in conflict with his potential mayoral duties. 'He does have a team of mentors for every aspect, not just to help him get to mayor, but people that are helping with public speaking, mental health,' Yelder told ABC. 'I think he will be more than prepared, even at 18, to take on the role as mayor of Fairfield.' Brandon Moss is one of several young adults across the country who have thrown their hat into the political arena. In Arizona, 25-year-old Deja Foxx has been making waves with her campaign to represent the state's 7th Congressional District. If elected, Foxx would be the youngest serving member in Congress. 28-year-old Rep. Maxwell Frost has represented Florida's 10th congressional district since 2023. Last year saw a 170 percent increase in Gen Z lawmakers taking office. Listen, I'm not an ageist. I think you can be capable of incredible work at any age. Spike Lee is pushing 70, and early word is that his latest with Denzel might be his freshest work in years. When it comes to governance, I think it's essential to have younger people become part of the process as they simply have more skin in the game. It's amazing to see Gen Z and Gen Alpha stepping up to make the change they want to see in their communities and the country at large. So yeah, folks, I'm rooting for Brandon Moss. If the country can put an old, racist, white man in the White House, then why not a Black teen mayor? SEE ALSO: St. Louis Community Fills Relief Gaps Left by Federal Delay Post Eaton Fire, Altadena Boys Shifts Focus To Youth Mentorship SEE ALSO Black Teen Brandon Moss Announces Candidacy For Mayor In Alabama Town was originally published on Black America Web Featured Video CLOSE
