On July 19, nearly 80 women gathered at the Community Health Center in Middletown for an uplifting event called Rooted in Wisdom: A Menopause Garden Party. This celebration of womanhood focused on sharing experiences around menopause, creating an atmosphere of openness and connection.
The event was part of the UConn Health Disparities Institute’s Menopause Equity Initiative (MEI), which aims to reduce stigma and promote awareness about women’s health in midlife. Hosts DeLita Rose-Daniels and Yvette Highsmith-Francis designed the event to empower women to view menopause as a shared journey rather than a struggle.
“Rooted in Wisdom was a powerful example of centering community voices in health equity work,” remarked Dr. Linda Sprague Martinez, director of HDI. She highlighted the importance of creating spaces for women, particularly women of color, to reclaim their stories and discuss menopause openly. Such conversations are vital for addressing health disparities.
The gathering began with a screening of The (M) Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause, a groundbreaking PBS documentary. The film struck a chord, prompting heartfelt reactions from attendees. “Women connected deeply with the message,” Rose-Daniels noted, emphasizing the power of shared experiences.
A “talkback” session followed, featuring expert health professionals who debunked myths surrounding menopause. Attendees asked questions and shared personal stories, gaining valuable insights from:
- Dr. Carla Gunn Samson, an experienced obstetrician/gynecologist
- Dr. Jessica Kluewer-D’Amico, a medical director specializing in geriatric psychiatry
The day included a wellness tea session led by herbalist Sasha Allen Walton, who demonstrated the link between cultural practices and health. Participants then created floral bouquets, symbolizing renewal and growth.
Highsmith-Francis captured the spirit of the day: “I saw faces light up as we reframed menopause as a time for personal rebirth and creativity.” Conversations about symptoms and potential treatments helped attendees feel seen and validated.
While menopause is a universal experience, it impacts women differently. For instance, Black women are often at a greater risk of early menopause and may face symptoms for years longer than other groups. Limited discussions around these experiences can exacerbate health issues, such as heart disease. Recent studies reveal that nearly 70% of women experience significant discomfort yet feel unprepared for the journey.
One attendee noted, “This was the first real conversation I had about menopause. I didn’t know hormone replacement therapy was an option.” This underscores the power of community events in bridging gaps in knowledge.
Trisha Pitter, director of Community Learning and Engagement at HDI, emphasized that those affected by health disparities should help lead the solutions. “This event was a chance for joy, truth-telling, and shared wisdom,” she said. The aim is to change the narrative around midlife, making it a more connected and supportive experience for all women.
Looking ahead, the HDI plans to host “Power of the Pause,” a statewide celebration for Menopause Awareness Month on October 25. This event will connect women experiencing menopause with health resources and support.
For more details, check out the [Menopause Equity Initiative](https://health.uconn.edu/health-disparities/menopauseequity/) page.
