Dear Friend of Jean Hailes

I am sure many of you, like me, can think of things we should, or shouldn’t, have done for our health if we had the benefit of hindsight. The reality is that women are often busy juggling family, home and work commitments and are too busy, or overwhelmed, to take care of their own health. 

 If we can achieve one thing it would be for you to think: I can do that for me. Evidence tells us that small steps towards better health can make a significant difference, not only to your lifespan, but to your quality of living. A five per cent reduction in weight has significant health benefits, with a 60 per cent reduction in diabetes, reduced risk of heart disease, as well as other health benefits.

When I began to have menopausal symptoms that were impacting on my daily life, I questioned my colleagues. I needed all the information to make my decision.

With so many treatment options out there, it is so important that women experiencing menopausal symptoms find out as much as they can so that they make the right decision for them. I strongly believe that you shouldn’t take anything, whether it be hormone therapy or natural therapies, without thinking about why you are doing it.

Explore your options, then discuss them with your health practitioner. Ask questions and weigh up both the benefits and the risks before you make your decision. Keep questioning if you need to. It’s your health – your choices.

I would like to thank you for your great feedback in our magazine survey. Our broad range of health topics reflects your interests and we share your thoughts about educating younger women. It’s inspiring to see how many of you are motivated to act on healthy lifestyle choices.

Our work is not possible without you. Many of you donate and your support is so important to us. We thank the Coles Group for including the Foundation in their workplace giving program – a concept allowing employees to make regular planned donations through pre-tax pay. Huge thanks also to Ark Clothing Company for holding a fashion launch of their summer clothing range, with all proceeds going to the Foundation. I would love you to contact me if you have any ideas for similar fundraising events.

It’s all about what works for you. Most of all be kind to yourself. While we may find it hard to define kindness we know what it is when we are in its presence. Happy holidays!

Janet Michelmore, AO
Director
Janet can be contacted on 1800 151 441.

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The Jean Hailes Foundation for Women’s Health national magazine is designed to be informative and educational. It is not intended to provide specific medical advice or replace advice from your health professional. The Jean Hailes Foundation for Women’s Health does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or the use of information or advice) which is provided in this national magazine or incorporated into it by reference. Information is  provided on the basis that all persons reading the national magazine undertake responsibility for assessing the relevance and accuracy of its content.

© 2007 The Jean Hailes Foundation for Women’s Health

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Content updated November 28, 2007