Dr. Mercy Odeyungbo’s father is a nurse, and she knew from an early age that she wanted to be a doctor. When she was a young girl, she would visit her father’s patients while living in Nigeria. When she got older, her family moved to the United States. They landed in a small suburb outside of Chicago, called South Holland, IL. She graduated from the University of Iowa with a bachelor’s degree and Indiana University’s Medical School. She wanted to be a surgeon and but chose to focus on dermatology late in her medical program. Dr. Mercy completed her dermatology residency at Mount Sinai-St Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital in New York.
On September 22nd at 8 pm CST, Dr. Mercy Odeyungbo will make her debut on TLC’s new series entitled “Dr. Mercy.” She will join the roster of some of the most outstanding medical professionals on television. Dr. Mercy, a Chicago-based dermatologist, will tackle some of the most unusual and extreme skin cases. She is passionate and determined to help all her patients find some relief, no matter the issue. The show will also give a behind-the-scenes look at her dermatology practice. It is a family affair, where Dr. Mercy’s husband runs two very successful practices while she focuses on the patients. Dr. Mercy’s three-year-old daughter, Lilly, also makes a cameo appearance. Her staff is like family; they support each other inside and outside of the practice. Dr. Mercy said she could not provide such a high level of care without her husband and dedicated staff.
Dr. Mercy stated, TLC found her on Instagram back in 2019. They reached out to her and discussed their desire to add more medical shows to the roster. She thought it was a joke the first time she got a call. She had several zoom meetings, and TLC fell in love with her. They filmed the pilot, and they immediately offered her an entire season. The TLC production staff scoured the country, looking for patients for the show. They utilized social media, ads at hospitals, and referrals. It is a long process to find patients for the show, and there is a complicated story behind each patient. Most patients have a fear of doctors or previously had unpleasant experiences within the health care industry. Some patients have tried to get treatment before and do not have health care or medical insurance. Most of these unique cases cannot be cured because they are either genetic or hereditary conditions. Still, Dr. Mercy is determined to provide some cosmetic and pain relief with an immediate boost of confidence.
She is a pleasant medical professional dedicated to helping others. She is passionate about changing the stigma within the healthcare system. Dr. Mercy knows people are fearful of medicine, reluctant to see doctors, and have social awkwardness due to their condition. She realizes every patient’s situation is unique and has a story behind their condition. After the procedure is complete, there is immediate gratification for both her and the patient. When she is in surgery, she is at peace, very calm, and the most Zen.
Dr. Mercy encounters some unique, complicated skin conditions that challenge her skill set. Many of the patients have some mental health challenges due to their unique skin conditions. She reminds them not to blame themselves and how strong they are even to endure their situation. Some patients experience depression and social awkwardness and have spent years hiding their condition by staying indoors. Dr. Mercy stays motivated by being able to help patients start a new chapter in their life after the procedures are complete. Dr. Mercy is changing lives, one patient at a time. Her patients reconnect with family members, find new love, get married, and their self-esteem soars.
According to Dr. Mercy, we can expect lots of crying, laughing, needles, fun, and heart-felt stories during this premier season. She truly cares about her patients, keeps in contact, and checks on their progress after the show. Seeing Dr. Mercy is often the last resort for many of her patients. She suggests finding a doctor you are comfortable with, asking plenty of questions, taking someone to the appointment with you, and being your advocate. If you have a family member or friend with a unique skin condition, be supportive by attending an appointment with them. Dr. Mercy is very honored to help people; she believes it is a gift from God. She is performing miracles and changing people’s lives. Dr. Mercy currently has two practices located in Lombard, IL, and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. To find more information on Dr. Mercy, you can follow her on Instagram @drmercyod and www.lillydermmd.com.
Theresa Horton is a contributing writer for the Chicago Defender. Find her on social media @passionateresources.Â
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