A retreat on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), organised by the Halo Foundation’s youth arm (Generation Y), was held recently at Government House. The event aimed to illuminate the complexities of PCOS, providing support, education, and empowerment to women affected by a prevalent, yet frequently misunderstood condition.

 

 

During the retreat, esteemed women’s health experts Dr. Raymond Mansoor and Dr. Cherie Tulloch explored various facets of the condition. Attendees were afforded the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of PCOS, its common symptoms, and effective management strategies.

 

 

 

The discussions also underscored the psychological impacts of PCOS, offering valuable insights into coping with the emotional burdens often associated with the disorder.

 

President of Halo Generation Y, Romancier Edwards said, “We are delighted to have hosted this retreat, offering a  supportive environment for women to convene, learn, and share their experiences.

 

 

The positive feedback reaffirms the critical importance of raising awareness and fostering a sense of community among individuals living with PCOS.” The retreat also featured nutritional and dietary guidance from Dietitian Nutritionist Ms. Samantha Moitt, strategies for managing PCOS and mental health from Counselling Psychologist Ms. Alaina Gomes, and insights on living with the condition from Clinical Psychologist Ms. Regina Apparicio.

Additionally, Gen Y members Kristine Louisa and Latisha Browne shared their personal testimonies about living with PCOS. Participants had the opportunity to connect with fellow attendees, build relationships, and feel empowered in managing their symptoms and enhancing their overall well-being.

 

 

President and Founder of the Halo Foundation, Her Excellency Lady Williams, remarked, “WHO statistics reveal that up to 70% of women globally affected by PCOS remain undiagnosed. This often results in infertility, alongside significant physical and emotional challenges. It is commendable that the young women of Halo Gen Y, especially Ms. Browne and Ms. Louisa, have taken the initiative to focus on this critical issue.”

 

The Governor General, His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, commended the Executive and Members of Halo Gen Y, of which he is proud to serve as Patron, for hosting a health education seminar at Government House. This is the second health-oriented seminar organized by Halo Gen Y, the first being an earlier mental health  anti-suicide event which attracted well over one hundred young people in Antigua and Barbuda.

 

 

Sir Rodney emphasized the importance of understanding one’s body to enhance self-care. He encouraged Halo Gen Y to “continue organizing such health seminars to complement the efforts of the Ministry of Health and other health institutions on the island”, noting that knowledge empowers better personal health care.