Take care, hugs., jeanne
Maybe it's time we channelled the anxiety and other emotional energy into something that would make the medical profession and researchers and pharmaceutical companies take notice that women need better solutions.
Maybe it's time we turned more proactive and even wrote to our congressmen and women and told them we contribute to society internationally, nationally and locally. We're taxpayers and we DEMAND that there be more research into not only women's health, but menopause, itself, and just as they discovered antibiotics and antidepressants and antihistamines and all the new surgical techniques that make heart surgery less invasive and brain surgery something that can be done on an out-patient basis and all the pills we see advertised on television for which the pharmaceutical companies are paying billions of dollars to advertise -- that they develop something that will not only erradicate the symptoms of menopause, but that doesn't come with risks of breast and ovarian cancer.
Idie, believe me, you're one of millions of women who feel the same way. I feel I've lost some of the best years of my life to menopause even though I've tried using these years to help other women. Frankly, I don't see the point to women suffering through this long, arduous passage.
I have tried many remedies and endorse those that work. I talk about Revival on these boards because it's the one thing that eliminated the severe depression associated with the dog days of perimenopause. It's the one thing that eliminated the hot flashes, night sweats and constant feelings of fatigue related to perimenopause. I've seen it work for thousands of women. I can't say enough good things about Revival.
I remember trying Zoloft and feeling like I was climbing walls, wired and more anxious than ever before, like I was going to jump out of my skin. I've used Xanax for the anxiety.
Let the researchers sit down with a list of the worst symptoms of menopause and come up with something that can erradicate this horrible passage.
For some, hormone therapy is helpful, but HRT as it is today has its own built-in problems. Many women develop a whole new set of problems on HRT they didn't have before. Many women don't get the relief, but I would certainly recommend trying various doses of naturally compounded, bio-identical hormones to see if there might be an answer for you.
There has to be something that can work for you. Nobody should suffer needlessly, I agree, and giving up 10-13 years of our lives to this "rite of passage," (which I more appropriately call a "wrong of passage") is ludicrous.
There's strength in numbers. I've done my best. I took the subject of menopause out of the closet and onto the Internet when nobody was talking about it.
We should all ban together as a group to try and make a difference. The only problem with that is that the moment I mention banning together or volunteering, everyone gets quiet (sigh).
But now I'm tired. Might sound selfish, I guess. What I would like to do though is find a way to inform younger women what they will be up against when they reach menopause. Let them , with their ever increasing numbers , demand a change for the better. My daughter, my daughter-in-laws , still go about their lives like this will never be an issue with them. I've told mine what might happen , but there is no real campaign to get the word out. Ok, big deal, we have a former model saying she is so great now that she is stopping bone loss. This still sounds like something that happens to other people instead of every woman on the planet.young women need to know what is in store for them and how nothing is really being done about it. It finally got better with PMS being recognized as a conditon that affects many young women. But still not much has been done about that either. So where to start is the question? Well, the answer of course, is the media. Oprah did a sugar coated show about menopause , but at least it's a start. Hopefully there is a way that it will be acknowledged soon so work can be started on remedies. A campaign to e-mail Oprah, or Good Morning America, or the Today Show perhaps? It's got to be put on nationwide TV to even begin to recognized.Well, I could go on and on , but I'm pooped already. Let me know what you think and we could get a letter ready and email it to every person in Congress, and every news show we can think of. About the only way I can think of to do this. And I sure can't see myself out carrying a sign . We could have all our friends send the same letter too. Numbers do mean something still.
Well I'm talking too much again So I'll shut up for now. hugs, jeanne
;)This TPOIC!!I can relate to the frustration....anger and fears!!It's been a little over 10 years for me....I'm still here....I made it!!!!!!!!":biggrin: Yeee-Haw!!
I did a lot of screaming....yelling....crying....cursing, etc.,etc., to people I thought SHOULD be, "In The Know!" Problem IS, they just shruggled their shoulders...and SOME said, "Get over it,"....SOME said, "You poor thing."....SOME said, "Yeah, right,"....SOME said, "Good luck!!":(
**FRUSTRATING, INDEED**
I have found, personally.....the best solution to date, was, THIS SITE!! Here, I find woman, who understand....share and care!!That has given me more peace of mind, than ANYTHING else!!
Dearest has done more for woman....who are struggling during this very difficult time, than most people I know personally!!I think it's because.....in my circle of friends....they are either....too BUSY....too PUZZLED...too TIRED...too whatever, to hold my hand!!!Plus, most DON'T understand!! Here....on the Power-surge site....WE DO!! We've BEEN there....DONE that!!
This SITE, with all it's resources....guests....you gals....gave me BACK my sanity.....cuz....one thing for sure------------*MENOPAUSE*-------"Isn't going anywhere!!" It's part of life, it's part of who/what woman are.......and like Dearest has said....soooooo many times........"it doesn't happen in a vacuum!"
So, when Doctors....friends....those (supposedly) in the know....pooh hooh it.....I come here!! I'm tired....being tired!! I'm tired...being frustrated!! I'm tired....being scared!!Here I find friends....who understand:):)God Luv y'all.............................................................
(((((((((((((((Hugs from a Canadian Snowbird))))))))))))) Nancy
I really believe that our possible solution could be writing individually to the research hospitals. I have personal experience with this, after a particularly bad treatment in an e.r. a few years ago. I wrote to the President of the hospital, and copied the chairman of the Board of Directors, and not only did my letter get a personal response from each, but I was asked to speak to the board to express my personal experience and suggestions! This could work for us too, with a well-worded letter stated in the right manner. If each of us sent this type of letter to our local research hospitals in our own local areas, we would get attention for sure. Maybe if we even had a form letter that could be made available to us via email download, we could print and sign them, and send them.
OK, so I'm an ex-English major with an M.A. degree, I've been in management for years, and I'd like to volunteer my services to draft such a letter. Of course, we should have the approval of Dearest before we stamp the "power-surge" name to it, so we should clear it with her. But if any of you are interested, respond here, or send me an email, and I'll be happy to help with the letter writing.
Together we stand - together we will be heard!
Sounds like another song coming on:biggrin:Where's jeanne....when we need her;);)Altogether now.....Hummmm!!!
(((((((((Hugs))))))) Snowy
I'm serious about drafting a letter to the research hospitals - they get the funding for programs, they set the trends. And if we can get a few well placed, well worded letters out - who knows what little tremors we could cause in the world of women's health!?!?!
Whaddya think?
Hmmmmmm!!!!!!
What do you mean "you 'n me 'n Jeanne?" I made the suggestion and I made it in a very serious manner. I don't prefer being discounted, thank you.
Yes, let's band and join together to do this "spreading the word" some how, some way. Let's light some fires and get some action -- we definitely need to be heard!! I believe with your expertise and direction it can be nothing but successful!!
With you in the war (and I will not be quiet about it!),
Just a suggestion, let's attempt to contact the Chairman and members of the Congressional Health Committee. Everyone is on summer break in D.C. right now but we could truly make an impact through the right venue. I am glad to research this and report back. Dearest must lead the bandwagon on anything that is done. I believe her experience of 8 years with this website is qualifications alone.
I have had my fill of doctors who say, "Well, I don't really know why you are bloated and have headaches. I have never heard of anyone having a problem with Premarin and Provera." (Unbelievable!)
Again, thank you for being there for me. I am enjoying all the past posts and recommendations. You are all great!
:)hugs, jeanne
Ditto. Please, count me in!
JoAnne
But I'm also in favor of contacting our representatives, etc. Several months ago I wrote to the ACOG about the crap they publish in their bi-annual magazine (that is given out at gynecologists' offices).
I think the most important aspect in changing prevailing attitudes is getting to all of the menopausal women who don't know their options in dealing with this time of life and who are at the mercy of physicians. How do we do that?
Thanks for the nice welcome, Jeanne. I'm so glad to find ya'll (sorry, I'm from Texas)!!!
Like I said (in my earlier post), I've already done a lot of screaming, yelling, crying, etc., etc., to people supposedly, "In The Know."...and eventually turned to this site, as the best solution FOR ME!!
In otherwards....been there...done that!! **Snowbird is tired**Once again....agreeing with jeanne...."The doctors will come out of the dark ages someday"....but IMHO...I don't believe in our time:(
Personally...(My view point ONLY)...I don't believe in getting in other people's faces and trying to force them to see things, "me way!!" "I wouldn't appreciate it, if it was done to me!! I apologize in advance, if I have offended anyone!"Like I said....been there...done that...and the end result was bigtime "Frustration!!":o:o:o Which I don't need!!
I've said NO to Premarin....cuz it almost killed me!! Anyone in my circle of friends, knows that....including most if not all doctors (in the area)!! Their response...."It works for some woman...they want it....why deprive them of their choice!"I don't need that anxiety in my life...the rejections and the stupid statements, like I just quoted!!I know I live in a Socialized country....that alone, makes it difficult!!I guess...I'm getting too old...too tired...to put myself in a situation that only causes more anxiety for me!!That's me....that's where I stand!!
THAT, is why I said....."The best solution for me is this site," and I will add here....not activism...not pushing or forcing what I think is best for everyone else!!
At the very least....when I get the chance I support this site...to anyone who asks where they can get intelligent information concerning Menopause!!
One thing I have learnt....talking to doctors...going through the hell of HRT....almost dying...loosing my gallbladder and part of my thyroid....."They know!!" They know, what's going on! They won't always admit it....too busy or tooooooo something!! There's always an excuse!! The Government knows too.....I've seen the documents...the debates, etc., etc. However....once again...they think....they know best!! Especially here in Canada!!I've written my letters....I said my piece...I've had enough!! Maybe, I'm just getting tooooooo old for this:biggrin:
What I do know, is.....I made a promise to myself....not too long ago....not to put myself in a situation again, that only adds stress to my life, (that I can avoid)....and in the end....goes nowhere:(
Just my two cents worth:biggrin:
(((((((((((((((Hugs from A Canadian Chick)))))))))))))) Nancy (aka Snowy)
I posted that early this morning...been away most of the day....just got back...read my post, and scared myself:o:o:o
I do apologize IF I offended anyone!! I might have been a little harsh with the way I expressed my frustrations!! *Sigh*
However...I am tired of it all...cuz.."I've tried it ALL!!" Grrr!No reason for anyone else not to give their best shot....who knows...they might make a difference;)
I agree with you, my good friend....until we are thought more of as equals...we'll always struggle with being heard:(
Love your seven cents....need change:biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::cool:
(((((((((((Hugs from Snowy)))))))))) Nancy
I still think there may be a Governmental task force or something out there we could work through. But, well, I'm kinda the new kid on the block so please bear with me and my enthusiasm. Do you remember the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and how it began? Maybe only a dozen women founded the effort and now it is nationwide. Same with MADD!
I'm not volunteering to put anything together but I am going to try to locate a governmental entity that may be addressing women's health issues. I do think this web site attracts many powerful women (and men). There have been many notable physicians, naturopathic doctors and authors who have provided chats and information to the site. I also believe that women are much more determined than men and know that elected officials pay attention when contacted by us. We all have a common bond here, and it is that we have suffered and struggled to find resources ahd help for this painful time in our lives. This is where I have found more than anywhere else. I have also found a special sisterhood that I can relate to, FINALLY!
God Bless you all and may you continue to improve your health and search for answers.
I'd do my best. Just hope my best is good enough for everyone. Just been a big year for me , and even thinking of getting on the bandwagon gets me seasick. But you know I'd be there helping if I can , Silly Goose would too, but we might gripe the whole time ( sorry goosy , but you know I'm right , heehee)
Hugs , jeanne
You know me toooooooooo well:biggrin::biggrin::cool:
(((((((((((((Hugs to ya)))))))))))) Silly Goose Too:cool:
Having said that, I think anyone who doesn't want to get involved with anything shouldn't. I, however, usually can't stop myself (I'm sure my incessant letter writing gets on the nerves of a lot of the recipients) when I see something I consider unfair. But like you say, that's just me.
Idie, no, the idea hasn't died a slow death, although if I don't get some rest, I will. And, please, don't include me in a category of all talk and no action. In its 8th year, this entire community has been an "action," not merely a "thought."
I have personally "acted" on those things in which I have believed all my life, and for the past nearly eight years through Power Surge on issues involving women's health, the correct information, their proper medical treatment during this transition of life.
I am with all of you. I hear, care about and agree with the concerns you've addressed in your messages. I understand your frustration and anger. I have always been passionate about the issue of women's health, have rejected offers for sponsorship based solely and entirely upon an undying idealism that I can't endorse products of mega-companies that not only I know in my heart, but through my own research, conversations with and teachings of experts in the area of women's health are not pristine products and some are downright dangerous.
I have never shirked what I consider neither a confrontation, nor a cause, but an inherent responsibility to myself and women like myself, such as all of you, nor have I shied away from an opportunity to buck up against the big guys simply because they're big and Power Surge isn't because the ultimate goal was to tell the truth and the truth about the way women's health is being handled in 2001 -- how unacceptable and reprehensible it is and that it must be addressed.
However, if Power Surge's name is to be used in being heard in hopes of effecting some positive results, the purpose must be impeccably stated. To go forth without a clear direction isn't worth going in for at all.
The bottom line is we must have a plan to implement. We can't just implement a plan without direction. This is the purpose of this discussion, not to rush in where fools fear to tread because we're passionate about a subject.
I will look further into this, but I don't have the luxury to focus on this one issue and have already put in a 20 hour day devoted to Power Surge today. I'm literally ready to drop.
Dearest
I wouldn't even know where to begin. I haven't the knowledge needed to write to anyone about menopause. I had to come here to even learn as much as I have. Too bad too cause I write a gooood letter. :)Whoever wants to submit a letter to this thread should do it and we can all discuss it . If changes should be made etc. or if things need to be added. But Dearest has done enough . I will send a letter whereever it needs sending. But this time I will have to let others more qualified do the talking and create the action. I just plain old don't know enough about what needs to be done. A couple of people have offered to write a letter . let's see what they have to say. No mentioning Power-Surge unless Dearest approves , of course.
Anyway , that's what I think . Any other suggestions?
hugs , jeanne
You put into words, (so much better than I), what I was trying in my frustrations to say!! I was, having a few bad days...with clear thinking, etc.,etc...and as a result, I may have been a little abrasive with my point of view:(
However...I can't thank you enough for your response!! Thank you!!When I said, "The solution for me, is this SITE."......plus....."at the very least...when I get the chance, I support, (this site) to ANYONE who asks where they can get intelligent information concerning Menopause".... that, being in it's 8th year , (with such SUCCESS), speaks for itself where action has been taken!!
You have done more...in 8 years...know the field, better...than anyone I know!!
You do it with compassion...common sense...say what HAS to be said, (at the right time) to those who need to hear it....without compromise!! I'm very impressed with what I have seen so far....thus the reason I support this site!!!You've been there...done that...you know what's out there!! You have a LOT of experience as to what works and what doesn't!!I'm also here to learn;)
God luv ya........................................................
((((((((((Hugs from a Canadian Gal)))))))) Nancy
The long list includes, among others:
- The Early Show
- The Today Show
- Later Today
- 20/20
- Nightline
- 48 Hours
- Dateline
- 60 Minutes
- Donnie & Marie
- Dr Joy Browne (for the TV show, not radio
- Oprah
- The View
- The Doctor is In
- Find your elected officials in the United States.
- Email NOW National Organization of Women
- National League of Women Voters...nothing scares congress more than women who VOTE!
- National Women's Studies Association email address
- and some other talk shows
United we stand--divided we fall! Go Power Surgers, Go!
Maybe now that she's getting older, though...?
I say this, and yes I am one who identifies with alot of you, many of us are feeling secluded in our own little world and find it hard to step out. But as our name states--
PowerSurge!!!
Everytime we have a Hot Flash take it as a reminder of what we must do to be POWERFUL!!! We can figure out how .
I think Oprah is a good first step, if approached in the right way.
I'm in, what's next?
Jan
I also tried making the point that I believe this is a very important issue and not one anyone should attempt in an angry, half-cocked mode. We need lots of good contacts and Power Surge is certainly connected with many prestigious names who would be glad to support our cause. Without these resources, contacts and supporters and "calm," nobody is really going to listen. Does that make sense?
There's no reason for you to go into lurker mode. Your input is just as important as everyone else's here, so please feel free to continue your participation.
Dearest
You mention Revival, and having good results. My Dr. just put me on an oral contraceptive. I don't like this Dr. much, he told me I am not perimenopausalaccording to FSH and LH proving my "ovaries are innocent" Horsepucky. Anyway, I can't afford this guy right now, and wondered what you would suggest about taking Revival along with oral contraceptives?
hugs
You mention Revival, and having good results. My Dr. just put me on an oral contraceptive. I don't like this Dr. much, he told me I am not perimenopausalaccording to FSH and LH proving my "ovaries are innocent" Horsepucky. Anyway, I can't afford this guy right now, and wondered what you would suggest about taking Revival along with oral contraceptives?
hugs
Hi, Heidi! Is the doctor who said you have "innocent ovaries" (What the heck does that mean???) the same one who prescribed the oral contraceptives?
Are you using those as contraceptives or as an alternative to HRT? I know that some women use them instead of HRT, but they're stronger than meno women need. Of course, with your innocent ovaries...
Seriously, I'd dump this guy!
And yes, you can use Revival with other medications. When I went off HRT over 3 years ago, I started on the Revival to help me wean off the HRT. Now, I use only the Revival, but with several other drugs that aren't meno-related. no problems with any of that.
:o:biggrin:That might have been you I saw standing on the corner:cheesy::cool: HeHe!!!((((((((((Huggers))))))))) The Silly One