Patty Hargreaves

I’m taking the Hot and Bothered Challenge to take action for women’s health

I'm hot and bothered.  So I'm doing to do something about it.... I’m fundraising to help Sinai Health build a world-leading Centre for Mature Women’s Health.

In 2013, an essay I wrote, titled 'My 12 year old son is not ready for Menopause", was published by the Globe and Mail's Facts and Arguments section.   Menopause and perimenopause affect nearly half of the world's population, with effects that ripple beyond personal health into relationships, workplaces, and even the global economy. Despite its wide reach, menopause remains shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding.   I felt bold writing about menopause in 2013.  

Sinai Health is ready to change that. The Centre for Mature Women’s Health will be the most comprehensive centre of its kind in the world, designed to address the full spectrum of health challenges that women face as they age.

I’m going to try to be bold again.  I've decided to take The Hot and Bothered Challenge by doing the Extreme Penguin Challenge in November.  This means I will swim 250 meters in Lake Ontario - without a wetsuit - 2 times per week.  While I challenge myself to cool off, I would love if you can help heat up my efforts by donating what you can to support Sinai Health's efforts, on behalf of all women.  Thank you.

"It's like watching a sapling when a tornado is coming in. There is a breakdown looming on the horizon and nothing can stop it. My young son is not ready for this. He is not ready for menopause. And, truth be told, his mother isn't ready for it either."