Every October, Menopause Awareness Month gives us the chance to lift up women’s stories, clarify the science, have a little fun, and remind our community that menopause is not something to endure—it’s something you can prepare for, understand, and navigate with confidence!
This year, two true. patients—Madonna Kramer and Tammy Myers—joined FOX 17’s morning news anchor, Janice Allen, to share their experiences. Their stories represent two very different menopause journeys, yet both highlight the same truth: when women understand what’s happening in their bodies, they can make informed choices that change everything.
These segments also reflect on a long partnership between true. Women’s Health and FOX 17. For three years, Dr. Diana Bitner has used this weekly platform to help women make sense of midlife, hormones, symptoms, and long-term health.
Tammy Myers: From Surviving Cancer to Taking Control of Early Menopause
Many in West Michigan first met Tammy Myers through her powerful advocacy around surrogacy laws. But her connection with true. began before this month’s segment.
In October 2020, Tammy joined Dr. Bitner as a guest on a Let’s Chat livestream titled “Surviving Cancer and Living Well.” During that conversation, she opened up about the physical and emotional toll of treatment, the fight to protect her fertility, and the impact of being thrust into early menopause long before she expected it.
Five years later, Tammy is still teaching us.
In her FOX 17 interview, she shared the next chapter—managing early menopause after cancer and navigating symptoms that were, at times, overwhelming. Like many cancer survivors, she was initially told that treatment options were limited or unsafe.
Working with Dr. Bitner, she discovered something different:
- There are safe choices for breast cancer survivors.
- There are non-hormonal medications that effectively treat hot flashes and sleep changes.
- Vaginal estrogen can be safe and life-changing for many women with a history of hormone-positive cancer.
- And early menopause deserves the same attention, validation, and individualized care as every other type.
Tammy’s honesty is helping other women recognize symptoms earlier, speak up sooner, and understand that early menopause is not a battle you have to fight alone.
Madonna Kramer: Preparing Early, Thriving Later
Madonna has also walked alongside true. for many years. Over 15 years ago, she participated in a research study with Dr. Bitner that tracked her lifestyle patterns, symptoms, and habits. Those early insights helped her approach perimenopause intentionally—as something she could prepare for, rather than something that would take her by surprise.
In her FOX 17 segment, Madonna compared menopause preparation to retirement planning:
“You save early if you want to retire well. Your health deserves the same investment.”
By focusing on movement, nutrition, preventive screenings, and symptom awareness in her 40s, she entered menopause with fewer symptoms and more stability. Today, she describes this stage as a time of freedom, energy, and renewed focus on herself.
Madonna’s experience highlights a message we teach every day at true.:
- Prevention in your 40s changes your 50s, 60s, and beyond.
- Consistent lifestyle habits—what we call SEEDS® (The Seven Essential Elements for Daily Success)—build long-term resilience.
- And early awareness allows women to engage in care, rather than react to it.
Dr. Bitner’s Leadership: A Steady Voice in Midlife Care
Both of these stories are rooted in years of care with Dr. Diana Bitner, who has been a national leader in menopause and midlife health for over two decades. Her work blends:
- The science and safety of hormones
- The reality of women’s lived experiences
- The precision of individualized care
- And a belief that women deserve science-backed, clear, actionable information—not guesswork
Dr. Bitner’s presence on FOX 17 each week is part of a larger mission: making midlife and menopause health understandable, evidence-based, and accessible to as many women as possible. Women often tell us (and send in emails to the Fox team!) that hearing her explain symptoms, define medical terms, and outline treatment options makes them feel seen and less alone.
Tammy and Madonna are powerful examples of what happens when women have both education and support.
Honoring the Role of Journalism and Storytelling
These segments wouldn’t exist without Emmy Award-winning journalist Janice Allen. Her thoughtful reporting helps translate medical information into real-life, relatable stories. Every Wednesday, she provides Dr. Bitner with a platform to share midlife experiences that many women still find difficult to discuss. Janice works to promote education and advocacy around women’s midlife health by covering these stories. She is a true champion for women and is helping to make women’s health education a regular part of everyday conversations. Her work encourages more women to understand that a good menopause is possible!
We are equally grateful for Kathryn Havrilla, FOX 17 Morning Executive Producer. She ensures that women’s health remains a consistent and meaningful part of the station’s coverage. Kathryn is deeply tuned into what’s happening nationally—new research, policy shifts, trending topics in midlife and menopause. Kathryn’s guidance behind the scenes reminds us that progress in women’s health doesn’t just come from the stories we tell—it comes from the people who make sure those stories are understood.
This partnership with Fox 17—journalism, patient stories, and clinical expertise—continues to shift the conversation around menopause from something whispered to something expected, normal, and valid. We are so grateful for the station and their support!
What We Want Women to Know
Whether you see yourself in Madonna’s story of early preparation or Tammy’s story of sudden change, the message is simple:
- Menopause is not one-size-fits-all.
- There are options!
- And you deserve care that fits your history, symptoms, and goals.
At true., we help women understand their symptoms using tools like the Symptom Circle® and create plans that combine lifestyle habits, hormone therapy (when appropriate and safe for you), and non-hormone treatments, including the newest options for hot flash relief.
Your journey is unique—and your plan should be, too.
Looking Ahead: Awareness Is Just the Beginning
Menopause Awareness Month may be ending, but our work continues every day. Each story shared creates more understanding. Each conversation opens a door for someone else. And each woman who takes the next step—whether that’s watching one of our live stream events, a consult, or simply tracking her symptoms—is part of a stronger, more informed community.
If you’re ready to begin, we’re here to help.
Text us for more information about becoming a patient, and explore our Complete Wellness, Weight Journey, or Cancer Wellness programs, or join us for an upcoming Let’s Chat live stream.
Because knowledge is power—and women deserve both.