A Mother’s Heart: Balancing Family and Health

For many mothers, putting the needs of others first comes naturally. For Amy Diamond, M.D., a physician, mother, and medical director of the Center for Advanced Wound Healing at the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute, that instinct is magnified — caring deeply for patients, staff, and her own family, often before herself.

This Mother’s Day, we honor her story and the countless women like her who carry the weight of responsibility with strength and grace, while reminding all mothers: your heart health matters, too.

A Calling to Care

Dr. Diamond’s journey into medicine was rooted in her passion for helping others. A graduate of Thomas Jefferson University Medical School, she practiced Family Medicine in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, for two decades. 

“I was asked to cover occupational medicine and advanced wound care — initially to oversee the hyperbaric medicine portion,” she said. “That quickly turned into full-time involvement and, eventually, a leadership role.”

Now at WVU Medicine, she leads inpatient and outpatient wound care services across several locations and serves as a content expert System wide. 

Beyond her work in medicine, she’s a wife and proud mother. Together with her husband, she’s been an active part of their community — running youth baseball leagues and supporting her son’s youth shooting program.

The Hidden Strain on Mothers’ Health

As a physician and mother, Diamond sees firsthand how easily women, especially those in caregiving roles, overlook their own health. 

“Mothers often put their families first — physicians are no different,” she said. “You’re the last person you focus on.” 

She emphasized that while caring for others, many women delay doctor visits, ignore warning signs, and struggle with work-life balance.

Her own wake-up call came unexpectedly: a late-night visit to the emergency department due to uncontrollable nosebleeds caused by undiagnosed high blood pressure.

“It was a reminder that I can’t keep putting my own health last,” she said.

Stress, Strength, and Self-Compassion

Diamond speaks candidly about the challenges of managing stress as a working mom.

“Most days, I don’t feel like I balance it well at all,” she said.

Her coping strategies? Community, faith, and authenticity.

“Surround yourself with people who are honest and supportive. Laugh at your missteps. Cry when you need to. Sing loudly in your car,” she said. “And most importantly, pray or find quiet time to reflect.”

Her message to other mothers: “Give yourself grace. The same qualities that make us good doctors — high expectations, drive, empathy — can lead us to burnout. It’s okay to fail. Our kids learn from how we recover, not just from our successes.”

Practical Tips for Heart Health

Despite a busy schedule, Diamond offers manageable ways for moms to care for their hearts:

• Plan meals ahead to avoid the convenience trap of fast food.
• Make movement part of the day — even a short walk counts.
• Watch for warning signs in women that differ from men, like fatigue, nausea, or dizziness.
• Schedule that check-up — your health deserves a spot on the calendar.

She encourages all women to “do as I say, not as I’ve done.” Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish — it’s necessary.

A Message of Hope and Support

When it comes to caring for women’s hearts, Diamond believes in meeting them where they are—with understanding, compassion, and support.

“Women carry so much — at work, at home, and in their communities. We need to continue building systems that make it easier for them to take care of their own health.”

At the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute, women can count on expert care that fits their lives. From preventive screenings to advanced treatment options, our team is here to support your heart health journey — every step of the way.

This Mother’s Day, give yourself the same care you give everyone else.

Schedule a heart health consultation with one of our specialists at WVUMedicine.org/Heart or call 855-WVU-CARE.