Book Tour Highlights Black Maternal Health

Tuscaloosa author, licensed practical nurse, birth doula and maternal health advocate Crystina Hughes is launching a new book tour aimed at raising awareness about Black maternal health while creating space for healing through storytelling.

The Blooming Through Motherhood tour begins Sunday, July 19, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. with "Stories in Bloom" at Blossom and Taste, Tuscaloosa's only Black male-owned floral shop, owned by Bryan Lawson.

The event will feature a live author discussion, book signing, floral arranging experience and community conversations centered on motherhood, grief, resilience and healing.

Hughes is the author of My Calling to HELLP!, a memoir detailing her experience with a high-risk pregnancy complicated by HELLP syndrome, pregnancy loss, birth trauma and postpartum healing. Through her story, she hopes to shine a light on the maternal health disparities affecting Black women while encouraging families who have experienced pregnancy complications or loss.

"Blooming Through Motherhood is more than a book tour; it's a movement centered on healing, advocacy and community," Hughes said. "By sharing our stories, we break the silence surrounding Black maternal health and remind families that healing is possible and no one has to walk this journey alone."

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Organizers say the event is designed to bring the community together through meaningful conversation while celebrating the strength and resilience of mothers.