A Night of Insight: My Experience at Below the Belt
Last week, I had the privilege of attending the "Below the Belt" exclusive film screening and panel event, hosted by the University of Sydney as part of their Welcome 2024 Semester 1 series. Luckily (and deliciously) for us, the event was sponsored by Genea who generously put on a delicious spread of snacks, desserts and popcorn for us all. Lining up for the event (which was free by the way!) we also had the opportunity to enter into a free raffle for some prizes. Dear reader, I was not successful in my entry but I appreciated the opportunity to enter nonetheless!
Fast forward to the film, and unfortunately there were some technical difficulties which prevented us from watching the entire documentary. However, what we did see told powerful and personal stories, with the film shedding light on the horrible realities that come with navigating a condition like endometriosis. I was personally moved by the story of a couple who had been trying to conceive for a number of years, but were unsuccessful because of endometriosis. While we were not able to follow their story to the end, Genea sent out a link to watch the rest of the film afterward, and (while I won’t spoil it), I shed many tears as we followed this particular couple navigate infertility.
After the screening, the event transitioned into a panel discussion, which was, for me, the highlight of the evening. The panel was comprised of a medical professional specializing in pelvic health, advocates for health education, a fertility specialist and a dietician. The discussion was open, candid and real: covering topics from the latest research and treatments in endometriosis to the importance of breaking the silence and stigma that often surrounds these conditions.
One of the most impactful moments of the panel was when a young woman in the audience stood up to talk about her sisters journey with endometriosis, sharing that (despite being under 30) she had undergone multiple surgeries and was now being told she had no option but to face a hysterectomy. As she shed a tear speaking about the trauma her sister had experienced, so did I. The reality of endometriosis is that it harms so many, not just those who are forced to live with it.
As the evening drew to a close, I left feeling sad, angry and desperate to do more. The "Below the Belt" event was a powerful reminder of the importance of open conversation on health matters that are often considered taboo or too uncomfortable to discuss. It also highlighted the incredible work being done by individuals and organizations to bring these issues to light and provide support to those affected.