Virtual Program Addresses Health Concerns of Women Veterans
To help women who serve connect with the information and support they deserve at every stage of life, the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS) will host “Her Service, Her Health: From Menstruation to Menopause,” a virtual Chat & Chew online conversation on Tuesday, October 20, from 1 to 2 p.m.
The one-hour virtual program will bring together the perspectives of a woman veteran, a women’s health expert, a community advocate, and a resource navigator. Topics will include menstrual and reproductive health; period poverty, including barriers to accessing menstrual products; perimenopause and menopause; health care, benefits, and financial support; caregiver support; and mental wellness. DVS’s program will help empower women veterans, service members, and their families to navigate health concerns, learn about available resources, and take informed next steps toward care and support.
“Women veterans have answered the call to serve. We must answer their call for care, understanding, and support throughout their lives,” said DVS Commissioner Dr. Viviana M. DeCohen, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran. “No woman should feel that her health concerns are too uncomfortable to discuss or too unimportant to be heard. This conversation is about dignity, knowledge, empowerment, and making sure women who served know where to turn for help.”
The October 20 discussion will be moderated by Dr. Lessie Branch, DVS Special Assistant for Community Engagement, an award-winning author, scholar, advocate, and U.S. Navy Veteran.
“Knowing that resources exist is only the beginning. Women also need to know how to find them, what questions to ask, and how to take the next step,” said Dr. Branch. “We are creating space for honest conversation about experiences too often met with silence. Our goal is for participants to leave better informed, more confident in advocating for their health, and more connected to support.”
Women who served, service members, family members, and those who support them are encouraged to participate and share the invitation. Register online at https://tinyurl.com/32v5cjhw.
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