Free film screening breaks the silence on menopause

Health

May 13

A free community screening of The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause will be hosted to raise awareness of menopause and perimenopause as a growing public health issue. The event takes place on May 21 at Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. at 5:30 p.m. with a post-screening panel discussion at 6:30 p.m.

The documentary examines the stigma, misinformation, and lack of support that many women face as they enter perimenopause and menopause. The film challenges societal silence and encourages a more compassionate and informed approach to women’s health.

“This started as a simple watch party with a few friends,” said Maureen Walsh, event organizer. “But the overwhelming response from women in our community turned it into something much bigger. This event is about empowerment, education, and bringing women’s health into the spotlight where it belongs.”

More than 2.1 million American women will enter menopause this year, with many more beginning perimenopause, some as early as age 37. Yet, education and support for this transition remain limited.

The post-film panel will be moderated by Val Lego and feature local leaders from the fields of medicine, mental health, insurance, and wellness, including:

Renae Goodman and Ashley Jex, OVD Insurance (Peri/Menopause and Employer Benefits)
Dr. Erica Armstrong, Root Functional Medicine (A Functional Medicine Approach)
Dr. Stacy Kratz, PhD, LCSW, Modern Mind (Mental Health in Midlife)
Drs. Laura and Jana Baatenburg, Concierge Medicine of West Michigan (Menopause and Primary Care)
Nisha McKenzie, PA-C, Women’s+ Health Collective (Sexual Wellness and Hormonal Health)
Shelly Faber, The McCahill Group (General Wellness During Menopause)
Andrea Eastway, NP, HealthBar (Self-Advocacy and Self-Care Strategies)

“We want to reach as many people as possible, which is why we focused on making this a free community event,” said Walsh. “In addition to the screening, we have assembled an expert panel that will address different aspects of the peri/menopause journey and give women the information they need to navigate this part of life. We are also excited to have a giving partner in Cherry Health. Attendees at the event can make a donation to their women’s health efforts and support women in gaining access to care.”

The event is generously supported by OVD Insurance, Root Functional Medicine, and Varnum LLP.

Event registration is required: https://events.blackbirdrsvp.com/the-m-factor-shredding-the-silence-on-menopause-film-screening