PCODestigmatised Foundation’s 'Run for Her' Marathon: Raising Awareness and Inspiring Change
In celebration of PCOS Awareness Month, the PCODestigmatised Foundation, in association with Vanshati fertility, organized the 'Run for Her' Marathon at Samajik Parivartan Prateek Sthal from 6 AM to 7:30 AM on 22nd September 2024, with over 2,000 participants. The event was flagged off by Padmashree Arjuna Awardee Olympian Mrs. Sudha Singh, Swami Muktinathananda Ji Maharaj, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission Sevashrama Vivekananda Polyclinic & Institute of Medical Sciences and several other distinguished dignitaries.
The half marathon, with categories of 3km, 5km, and 10km, was themed “Run for Her” and aimed to raise awareness about PCOD. As part of PCOS Awareness Month, observed annually in September, this event focused on engaging and educating women about PCOD while promoting healthier lifestyles and a brighter future. Run for Her is more than just a race; it's a movement to empower women, spread knowledge, and inspire change. Participants received a certificate, and winners were awarded cash prizes.
Dr. Seema Pandey, Founder of the PCODestigmatised Foundation, emphasized the importance of PCOD awareness: “PCOS is the most common hormonal disorder among women, affecting 10% to 40% of the female population. It is a lifelong disease, which often begins in the womb and manifests during adolescence, especially in genetically predisposed females with unhealthy lifestyles and environmental exposure. Although it cannot be cured, with certain lifestyle changes, women can take control of it.”
The marathon was part of a two-day PCOD awareness event that began on 21st September. The first day featured the PCOD Forum & Advocacy, the Launch of the PCODestigmatised Foundation, and Shwethambhari.
Discussing the benefits to the PCOD community, Dr. Seema added, “The PCODestigmatised Foundation is committed to ensuring that anyone suffering from PCOD does not feel alone and receives the necessary support, including guidance on selecting the right doctor, adopting healthy food habits, and incorporating effective exercises into their routines. To achieve this, the foundation will create safe spaces for sharing experiences, develop informative videos, research papers, and blogs to educate the community, and provide a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions to address common concerns. Additionally, plans are underway to launch a dedicated app to streamline access to resources and support, as well as to offer assistance to those who cannot afford treatment, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent individuals from seeking help. Through these efforts, the foundation aims to empower women and foster a sense of community among those affected by PCOD.”
