Author: Vickie Helm
### Tensions Rise Over Transgender Bathroom Policies in Congress A Republican representative from the House has initiated efforts to prohibit transgender women from using women’s restrooms within the US Capitol, following the historic election of Sarah McBride, the first out transgender member of Congress, just two weeks prior. #### Proposed Changes by Rep. Nancy Mace On Monday, South Carolina Rep. Nancy Mace introduced a resolution aimed at amending the rules governing the House of Representatives. This move comes less than two months ahead of McBride’s inauguration in January. Mace stated to reporters, “Sarah McBride doesn’t get a say. I mean,…
Raising Awareness: Salisbury Soroptimists Champion the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Salisbury Soroptimists are spearheading the campaign for the 16 Days of Activism, dedicated to eradicating violence against women and girls. This essential initiative aims to raise awareness and promote action across communities. Campaign Dates and Theme This year’s campaign commences on November 25, coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and continues until December 10, which is Human Rights Day. The theme of this year’s event is, “UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls.” Community Safety Initiatives A hallmark of…
South Carolina Rep. Proposes Ban on Transgender Bathroom Use in Capitol U.S. Representative Nancy Mace from South Carolina has put forth a resolution aimed at restricting transgender individuals from using bathrooms that align with their gender identity in the U.S. Capitol. This proposal emerges just weeks before the inauguration of the first transgender member of Congress, U.S. Rep.-elect Sarah McBride from Delaware. Details of the Resolution The two-page resolution, publicly disclosed on November 18, seeks to enforce a policy that would only allow House members and staff to use single-sex facilities corresponding to their biological sex. Notably, this measure does…
Entering into a second marriage can be both thrilling and daunting. While it offers the chance for healing from past wounds and the hope of a fresh start with blended families, statistics reveal a concerning reality: over 60% of second marriages end in failure. Despite this, understanding and implementing certain strategies can significantly contribute to a fulfilling remarriage. According to James Bray in his book Stepfamilies, a stable and joyful marriage is the cornerstone of a thriving blended family. Likewise, research from The Gottman Institute emphasizes that the health of the couple’s relationship is integral to the family’s success. To…
Photo: SDI Productions/Getty Images Expanding Women’s Health Services at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts is enhancing access to women’s health services by introducing new care options that include a comprehensive doula program, part of an expanded collaboration initiative. The organization has initiated a pilot program with Accompany Doula Care aimed at tackling racial disparities and improving maternal and birthing care across Massachusetts. This initiative offers eligible members the opportunity to work with a birth doula, which, according to Blue Cross, can lead to significant reductions in cesarean sections and premature births, while also…
How I Increased My Daily Steps to 20,000 and What Happened Next Hi there! I’m April, and I can proudly say I’m a bit of a Fitbit enthusiast. This year, I’ve managed to log 10,000 steps every single day. While it may seem like a humble brag, I assure you it’s not! The reason behind my daily success isn’t as impressive as it sounds. I live just 2.5 miles from my workplace, which equates to a 20-minute drive, a 30-minute subway ride, or a 45-minute walk. Without a car and with taxis that would drain my wallet in a week,…
Walking: A Valid Cardio Option When I envision cardio workouts, I often picture vibrantly-dressed fitness enthusiasts reminiscent of Jane Fonda—complete with colorful Spandex, sweatbands, and their arms in full swing. Initially, I would dismiss the idea of walking as an effective form of cardio. Most people associate cardio with high-intensity, sweat-dripping activity—right? But could walking actually be categorized as cardio? What is Cardio? To break it down: cardio, short for “cardiorespiratory,” includes any physical activity that engages your heart and lungs, delivering oxygen to your active muscles. Steve Stonehouse, a certified personal trainer and director of education for the running…
Clara Amfo Opens Up About Body Image Struggles and Liposuction Thoughts Clara Amfo has candidly shared her recent struggle with body image, revealing that she considered liposuction after becoming overly critical of herself. In an honest conversation for the December edition of UK Women’s Health, the 40-year-old presenter discussed her relationship with body image and how it has impacted her career. Reflecting on Appearance and Career During the interview, Clara reflected on how her appearance could have influenced her career trajectory. She pondered, “If I had done all these things but I existed in a different body, maybe had a…
Advancing Women’s Health: The Call for Research and Innovation Healthcare leaders emphasize an urgent need to increase focus on women’s health research and innovation. Significant gaps persist in the global understanding of various aspects of women’s health, particularly in areas such as gynecological cancers and the unique experiences women face with chronic diseases. Investing in new technologies dedicated to women’s health can be pivotal in addressing these disparities. Insights from the 2024 World Medical Innovation Forum During the 2024 World Medical Innovation Forum, experts discussed the ongoing transformation in women’s health technology. They mapped out current deficiencies in women’s healthcare,…
At just ten years old, during a school camping trip, I first experienced an excruciating pain that felt like it was ripping me apart from the inside. In that moment, I truly believed I was dying. No one had prepared me for the reality of periods or the challenges of endometriosis; little did I know that this was just the beginning of a lifelong struggle. Throughout the years, I endured heavy bleeding that required me to use both a pad and a tampon, changing them hourly. I mistook my suffering for a sign of weakness, convinced that everyone else must…