On March 4, the event “Embracing Change” was held at The Core at Esperanza Health Center to help participants learn what to expect during menopause. The event was an initiative of Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, representative of District 7 of the Philadelphia City Council, and featured the participation of Dr. Carine-Ange Stagni. The welcome was delivered by Lianette Pappaterra, Director of Community Health and Wellness at Esperanza Health Center, who greeted attendees in a warm and welcoming environment.

The event brought together dozens of women interested in learning more about the changes that occur during menopause. During the talk, speakers discussed how hormones transform the body, what symptoms may appear, and provided practical guidance on how to manage daily life during this stage.

Among the most discussed topics were mood changes, decreased sexual appetite, the well-known “hot flashes,” and weight gain. Many attendees took advantage of the space to ask questions and share their own experiences.

Councilmember Lozada explained that the initiative emerged from conversations with women in the community who experience these changes in silence. “For me, this is extremely important. Not only because I am going through this process right now, but also because I have heard from so many women in the community who are experiencing it and suffering in silence,” she said.

Additionally, emphasized that talking about the topic helps break the silence that has traditionally surrounded menopause. “We are living in a time when we must share our experiences and support one another as sisters so that we can go through this process together,” she noted.

During the conversation, she also mentioned some of the symptoms that have surprised her the most, such as bone pain, night sweats that disrupt sleep, and mood changes that can range from joy to tears. “It is important to recognize that our bodies are going through a natural process and that we are not alone. Our neighbors, our aunts, and our mothers have also gone through this. The difference is that today we are talking about it,” she affirmed.

Participants not only received information but also shared laughter and reflections, creating a space of mutual support. Many left with new information and resources to continue learning about menopause and how to manage its symptoms.

Councilmember Lozada noted that this was the first of several gatherings aimed at connecting women in the community with information about their health and well-being. She also invited those interested to stay tuned for future activities through her office. The goal, she said, is to continue creating spaces where women can learn, speak openly, and support one another during this stage of life.