By: Phyllis Bivins-Hudson
Every month, our calendar carries with it a host of celebrations, recognitions, and holidays. Among May’s most cherished observances is Mother’s Day—a time dedicated to honoring mothers across America.
But as we pause to celebrate the special women in our lives, it’s worth noting that May is also filled with many other meaningful days and causes, each carrying its own message and mission.
Celebrating Mothers—and More
Mother’s Day stands out as one of May’s most recognized celebrations. It’s a time that unites generations—mothers, daughters, granddaughters, and great-granddaughters—offering a chance to express love, gratitude, and appreciation.
On this day, moms are treated with the care and attention they so richly deserve.
However, while we honor mothers with gifts and gestures, it’s also an opportunity to reflect on how we can support their long-term well-being. We may not be able to prevent every illness or challenge they face, but we can take proactive steps to help protect their health:
- Learn about conditions that affect them—and how to prevent or manage them.
- Encourage regular medical checkups and ensure medications are taken as prescribed.
- Remind them to keep up with annual screenings and doctor visits.
- Simply spend time with them. While science hasn’t confirmed that “dates with daughters” extend a mother’s lifespan, studies show that strong family bonds improve mental and physical health—while loneliness and isolation have the opposite effect.
Reflecting on Other Special Days
May is also home to many lesser-known but equally significant observances:
- May Day: I have fond memories of this as a child. In second grade, I took part in my first and only May Day celebration—we dressed in white, danced around a maypole, crowned a May Queen and King, gathered flowers, and ended with a bonfire. It was a joyful welcome to spring and nature’s renewal.
- Cinco de Mayo: Growing up in the rural South, I wasn’t familiar with this day. In our small, close-knit African American farming community, we had little exposure to other cultures. But today, I understand that Cinco de Mayo is a proud celebration of Mexican heritage, commemorating a victory over French forces, and an important part of the cultural fabric of many communities.
- Memorial Day: As a federal holiday, Memorial Day is observed nationwide to honor those who died in military service. It’s a solemn but important moment of remembrance and unity. And I generally take the time out to recognize family members who devoted their lives to the military.
- International Museum Day, World No-Tobacco Day, and International Day of Plant Health also fall in May, each highlighting global awareness efforts.
Spotlight on Health and Wellness
May is a powerful month for health awareness—especially when it comes to our mothers and other women in our lives. Here are a few important health observances and tips to keep in mind:
- Skin Cancer Awareness Month: Skin cancer is one of the most treatable cancers, especially when caught early. Encourage the women in your life to get regular skin checks and consult a medical professional if anything seems unusual.
- Better Sleep Month: Most of us don’t get enough sleep. I’ve operated on 4–6 hours a night for years, only crashing when exhaustion catches up. Let’s check in on our moms and remind them that sleep matters—eight hours a night can improve mood, cognition, weight management, immunity, and heart health.
- Physical Fitness and Sports Month: Physical activity helps prevent chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. It also reduces stress, boosts mood, improves sleep, and promotes mental clarity. Encouraging our loved ones to stay active is a vital act of care.
- World Asthma Day: This one is personal for me. Though I haven’t had an asthma attack in years, I know how unpredictable it can be. For those with asthma—especially women who are often caregivers for others—managing the condition with awareness, medication, and lifestyle adjustments is essential.
- National Stroke Awareness Month: Strokes are a serious health emergency. Recognizing the signs and seeking immediate help can make all the difference. Education around prevention, recognizing risk factors, and ensuring support after a stroke is vital—especially for older women, who are often at higher risk.
A Call to Care
This May, take time to connect with your mother—or a mother figure in your life. Share what you’ve learned. Show that you care not only through gifts, but through ongoing support, health checks, and meaningful conversations. Make sure she has the right contact numbers in case of an emergency, and that she knows she’s not alone.
Until next time—keep flying on your own wings, and help others soar with you.