Daily Inspiration: Meet Dr. Francemise Kingsberry

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Francemise Kingsberry.

Hi Dr. Kingsberry, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story? 
When my oldest daughter Amira was alive, she started experiencing a loss of milestones. Where she could walk, for instance, she started cruising furniture and eventually wheelchair–ridden. We took her to countless specialists who couldn’t determine what was causing Amira to decline in health. Unfortunately, she ended up passing away in 2010 at the age of four and half. We were devastated but pressed on. 

As time would have it, I had a son Hassan II and, later, a set of twin girls named Keren and Kelyn. We were so excited and happy about our children. At first, everything seemed normal with the twins, but Kelyn started having health challenges. Because of our experience with Amira, we were able to advocate and get Kelyn to medical specialists and underwent genetic testing who determined that she had a rare disease called Niemann-Pick C (NPC). NPC, known as childhood Alzheimer’s disease, attacks many organs and systems, including the central nervous system. In particular, NPC ultimately impacted Kelyn’s mobility among many other areas in her body. It is estimated that NPC occurs in 1 in 120,000 live births. 

Medical specialists were also able to test Amira’s cells and confirmed that Amira had NPC as well… Although we were able to assemble a good medical team, due to the aggressive, incurable nature of the disease, Kelyn passed away in 2020 at the age of five and a half. Our hearts were broken yet again. 

As a caregiver for both of my girls, I was well acquainted with the challenges and needs faced by families of children with rare diseases. We were able to donate Kelyn’s equipment to other children who needed it. I started to feel a burden to find a way to help other families dealing with issues similar to what we faced. Out of that desire, the nonprofit Mes Papillons Foundation was born. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It certainly has not been a smooth road! As I mentioned, I lost two of my children to NPC while having to find a way to be present for my other children while dealing with grief. If it weren’t for my faith, my husband, my children, and my therapist, I don’t know where I would be—probably wallowing in deep depression. 

There is also a financial burden that accompanies these journeys from frequent appointments with specialists to therapists, medical equipment, hospital bills, etc. 

Another struggle was for my mental health. I realized that I needed help processing my loss, or I would be stagnant and hurting for a very long time. Investing in therapy sessions was a worthwhile investment that has helped me to have a sound mind and able to help others. 

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am the Founder/Executive Director of Mes Papillons Foundation, a nonprofit created in honor of Amira and Kelyn. Our mission is to provide financial assistance to families of children with rare diseases in order to gain much-needed access to medical equipment not covered by insurance. We also bring awareness to NPC. 

I am proud of the work that our Board of Directors is doing! We help our first annual “Butterflies in Bloom” Gala. The event was sold out, and we look forward to helping more families. 

In 2015, I earned my doctorate in Educational Administration and Supervision from North Carolina State University. I have been able to influence the field of education through my service as a writer and a former administrator, teacher, adjunct professor. 

Last year, I also started a writing and consulting business where I’ve been able to marry my experience in educational leadership and race and equity research to become a grant writer, Diversity Equity & Inclusion consultant, and content creator. As a writer, I love inspiring others, helping them craft their stories, and encouraging them to make it through anything they face. 

I also love serving in ministry with my husband, Hassan! We will celebrate our 15 years in October. We co-pastor Rebirth & Renewal Church International in Youngsville and speak, preach, sing, and share the Gospel throughout our community and region. 

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
I draw daily inspiration from the Bible and many inspirational books—perhaps too many to name. I love reading books by Rachel Hauck and Toni Shiloh. 

I also have a very impressive library of books on race and Black history. I am currently reading “The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know To Secure a Seat at the Table” by Minda Harts. 

Contact Info:

• Website: mespapillons.org
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/mespapillonsfoundation
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mespapillonsfoundation
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drfkingsberry
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rrcilife

Image Credits
Celebrations Foto