The air was filled with an unshakable feeling of sisterhood, ushering in warm greetings, smiles, and a sense of community to the annual Women of Vision Conference; held in Calgary on Saturday, May 12th, just in time to spoil the ladies for Mother’s Day.

In it’s sixth year, the topic of focus was Ovarian Cancer and Uterine Fibroids, one that affects women, specifically women of colour, at staggering rates.

The multigenerational audience was treated to presentations offering advice on early detection, prevention, and resources by the impressive roster of women.

This conference featured three speakers who offered their personal experiences, expertise and prayers to connect the community of women. The panel provided a diverse set of expertise ranging from; medical, naturopathic, and personal viewpoints in this educational forum.

Registered Nurses Cheryl Okoli and Kemi Micho both provided a medical synapsis on nutrition, signs and symptoms, treatments, and resources.

Leslie Schroder discussed her own battles with ovarian cancer, and current status with the disease. Her presentation touched the audience and was concluded with a moving prayer led by Micho, who is also a pastor.

Media personality Phina Brooks MC’d the event, engaging the women all throughout the days’ activities.

One of the highlights of the event was brought in full force through a high energy Zumba lesson, that had the ladies up and moving.  Additionally, video presentations, vendor booths displaying their colourful wares, authors’ books relating to stories of hope and perseverance, all things hair and beauty, a makeup demonstration, amazing giveaways, and delicious food offerings rounded out the festive experience.

The annual event is a day designed for women, to share, learn, network, and continue to grow the community of women.

 

By Lola Adeniran-Hamer, Principal Visual Specialist, Falanafoto, www.falanafoto.com

 

Leslie Schroder, is living with ovarian cancer, shares her story to raise awareness. I hope to take some of the fear away, seeing what I’ve gone through. I want them to see that I’m here still standing. Schroder says ovarian cancer can come at any age but most women ignore the signs until its too late. We, women, know our bodies, so don’t ignore the signs… three weeks is the line in the sand, if you’re feeling something isn’t right or bothered after this time frame, don’t ignore it.

Cheryl Okoli, RN BN MSN said the importance of speaking to women in these spaces is addressing the cultural stigmas that accompany feelings of shame or to the women who suffer in silence; but in such forums, it can be discussed openly which otherwise might not be shared. The information, especially when speaking to a multigenerational and a multicultural group, is vital. I believe fibroids is a public health issue.

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