TMA Women Of Color Affinity Group Meeting
Join TMA’s Women of Color Affinity Group: Empowerment Through Support & Advocacy
Founded in 2019 by Holly Jones and Kaniah Gunter, TMA’s Women of Color (WOC) Affinity Group is a vibrant support and advocacy community dedicated to uplifting women of color living with myositis. Through the powerful 3E’s—Encouragement, Education, and Empowerment—our mission is to unite and empower women of color affected by myositis and to advocate for their health and well-being. By providing education, support, resources, and the backing of TMA’s expertise, we are determined to reduce the disparity gap in myositis outcomes for people of color. As we foster a community of strength, resiliency, and inspiration; together, we will break barriers, challenge inequalities, and create a future where every woman, caregiver, and loved one affected by myositis, regardless of their race, can thrive.
Each month, WOC come together for impactful workshops and support meetings, empowering participants to take what they’ve learned and share awareness about myositis within their communities. Whether you’re looking for guidance, solidarity, or the opportunity to advocate for others, this group offers a space for connection, education, and positive change.
When?
First Thursday of each month at:
6:30pm ET | 5:30pm CT | 4:30pm MT | 3:30pm PT
Join us and become part of a movement to raise awareness, educate others, and empower women of color to take charge of their myositis journey. Visit our group page for more information.
About the Leaders | Holly Jones & Kaniah Gunter
In 2003, at the age of 19 years old Holly Jones was diagnosed with Polymyositis with Interstitial Lung Disease at a CPK level over 20,000. In 2014, her lung disease progressed causing her to develop Pulmonary Hypertension that required her to be on oxygen daily. After six years of being in clinical remission, the Pulmonary Hypertension progressed into Congestive Heart Failure in October 2020. Living with diseases that attack her muscles, lungs, and heart; it has not stopped Holly from accomplishing her life goals. A social media entrepreneur, Holly also serves on TMA’s Board of Directors, as well as co-leader for TMA’s Women of Color Affinity Group, and Support Group Leader for the Houston, Tx regional support group. Holly lives in Porter, TX with her husband and children.
Kaniah Gunter, a Nutrition Health Coach owner of Unique Guidance Nutritional Health Coaching, LLC, was diagnosed with dermatomyositis with NXP-2 positive (anti-MJ) and scleroderma in 2007. Kaniah graduated from The Institute for Integrative Nutrition, one of the largest nutrition schools in the world.
Recently she completed her certification as a Community Health Worker. She is a strong advocate for the myositis community. At TMA, she is a regional support group leader for TMA Virginia, West Virginia and Northwest Carolina as well as co-leader for TMA’s Women of Color affinity group. She has shared her story in many healthcare publications and social media. She serves as an inspiration for others as she demonstrates healing begins within mind, body and spirit. Kaniah and her two beautiful children live in Norfolk, Virginia.
