07/14/2024
Somehow, in my late 30s and early 40s, my personality changed, and I didn’t even realize it was happening. I used to be vibrant, silly, and tolerant. I enjoyed my children so much that our house was nicknamed Anna’s Wonderland, and I had a preschool in the basement. The constant noise and commotion of children never bothered me. But slowly, I became more irritable and anxious. My sleep suffered, my body started to break down despite my efforts to stay strong, and I experienced mysterious aches, pains, and injuries.
I began self-diagnosing, undergoing biopsies and imaging, but found no clear answers. I didn’t want to work anymore but couldn’t see a way out. Nothing was fun. Burnout was real. The pivotal moment came when my youngest daughter looked at me in the kitchen and simply said, “Mom, you don’t laugh or smile anymore.” Her words cut deep. I realized I was no longer the fun, silly, vibrant role model she once knew.
It took time for me to recognize that I was going through perimenopause. I had to figure it out on my own because doctors weren’t recognizing or treating it. It’s not their fault; it’s the system. Thankfully, things are changing, and I’m thrilled to have received the training needed to help others avoid this struggle. I hope to educate and support women through the transition so they can recognize the symptoms and be prepared.
Through lifestyle changes and supporting my hormones, my migraines, miserable periods, personality changes, and sleep disturbances began to improve within weeks. Menopause is real, and you are not alone. The best is yet to come.
I share this picture because it makes me so happy that my children can see me laugh again. I hope they remember their silly, full-of-life, proactive parent who wants to enjoy every precious moment. Let’s make each day count, be joyful, and grateful. Laugh every day, love every day, and feel like ourselves every day.
