What made you decide to participate in the year's Run for Women?
In 2022, after my husband and I experience a miscarriage and then I was diagnosed with PCOS, I went through one of the toughest years I have had in terms of my mental health, experiencing both anxiety and depression. When we sought help at BC Womens Early Pregnancy Clinic, I was treated with so much warmth, care, and support in a very uncertain and overwhelming time of my life. I love that the funds from this race go towards the Reproductive Mental Health program at BC Women's Hospital, as this cause is something that hits home for me. I want to be a part of supporting their programs and mission to help other women.
What helped you get through that difficult season?
What helped me most was being open with my closest friends and family, being honest with myself and with them, about how I was actually doing. Of course, its tough to be vulnerable. Its still scary to talk about issues like this, still scary to share with others what I've been struggling with. But I realize now its not just about me. Its about all women alike, who have or are going through mental struggles with themselves and their bodies! Its about all women that struggle to break free from the stigmas and the boxes society puts us in. I want people to know there is a community out there and together is so much better.
What would you want to say to other women struggling with mental and/or reproductive health on their own?
Don't lose hope. Even in your struggle, in the darkness, you can find a silver lining. You can still find love and acceptance and understanding. There are people who will show up for you when you least expect it.