“WOMEN’S HEALTH IS EVERYONE’S HEALTH”

We’re going from “how’re you holding up” to “who are you holding up”. 

Welcome to the Changemaker’s Market, a digital community of movers and makers who have generously donated their goods and services to benefit the BC Women’s Health Foundation.

Each and every item or service has been generously donated by a BC business owned by self-identified women. You can bid on items or buy them outright, with all proceeds benefiting the BC Women’s Health Foundation and our mission of healthy women everywhere, capable of anything. 

We asked our Changemakers a few questions, including Dr. Genieve Burley @genieveburley, chiropractor, fitness instructor, movement expert, and great friend and supporter of our Foundation, as one of our current GLOW Co-Chairs.

“I decided to try chiropractic on myself when I was in school, after many years of dealing with a chronic lung problem, migraines and headaches. The results were immediate; this is when I knew I needed to do this for others. I am passionate about health, yoga, fitness, and nutrition. I combine my practice and research on these fields to provide comprehensive treatments that go beyond the adjustment.”

What’s your Quarantine anthem? 

I think this question is a good one, and I think if we really picked the one song we have connected to over this time, it’s “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers. Not only did we just lose him, but the song is so poignant for the times. The silver lining to this quarantine has been the deep connections and kindness we have seen by so many people.

Sourdough starter, yay or nay?

Yay, then nay. We started, but sourdough starter is a lot of work, and uses a lot of flour. We had to freeze our sourdough starter because the grocery stores were low on flour. We will pick it up again, when it’s easier to grocery shop.

Why did you choose to donate to the Changemakers Market?

I believe strongly that if it is within our capacity to make change, it is our responsibility. No matter how difficult this period of quarantine has been on me, I know it has been harder on someone else. I think the Changemaker’s Market is an excellent idea, where entrepreneurs and small businesses can make a donation, bidders get incredible prizes and the money raised assists the cause of women’s health in BC and women’s health research for the rest of the world. I can’t wait to be a part of it.

Why does women’s health matter to you?

Women’s health matters to me, because women’s health is everyone’s health. 

I have learned so much through the BC Women’s Health Foundation about the research inequities between men and women, both historically and present. I feel very motivated to do everything I can to support a growth in both women researchers, and women beneficiaries. I feel especially during such a sensitive time for global health, we need to support how women are being affected, especially pre- and post-pregnancy

Do you have a personal story that inspired you to support women’s health?

I experienced serious postpartum anxiety with the birth of my first daughter Rhys. It took me a long time, but I finally went to the BC Women’s Reproductive Mental Health program, and after my first appointment I took my first deep exhale in 3 months after giving birth. The work being done at BC Women’s Hospital and through the Foundation is life saving. I am so grateful to have had the expertise of the BC Women’s mental health team to allow me to start my journey towards healing and thriving in early motherhood.

What inspires you most about giving back to your community?

Truly it’s the letters and notes I receive from people. 

It took me a long time, and is still a work in progress for me to accept compliments, kindness, gifts or help. But when people are genuinely sending the most beautiful words of gratitude, I hold it deep to my heart. Words have been my fuel and reward for anything I have given to my community, and that is better than any financial remuneration or recognition. 

I am so lucky to have the opportunity to give back, and I have gratitude every day. I will give back in all ways possible for my entire life. Nothing feels better, and I want to be an example to my children.

What’s your unique mission with your services?

My unique mission with both my chiropractic practice, and movement instruction through the Class by Taryn Toomey, and yoga is to empower people to believe in their health and reconnect to their purest self.

What’s the first thing you’ll do post-social distancing?

Hug freely. Teach to people in real life instead of on-screen. Gather with friends. Explore our province.

What or who is a local shop founded by a woman that you admire?

I admire Fig Face, and specifically the founder JJ Walsh. She has done such a beautiful job of creating an incredible local service and continued to support many foundations in our community.

And lastly, one word to describe Genieve’s legacy?

Kindness.

Photo credit: Mark Halliday at @moonriderpro

Bid, buy, connect, create change. Every purchase made at the Changemakers Market is a declaration of your dedication to women’s health and equity in the healthcare system. Go you.

Whether you bid on the Changemakers Market from May 30 – June 6, or donate directly — you’re championing change for all women across BC.

Interested in learning more about our Changemakers? Read more stories or follow along on Instagram @bcwomens.

BC Women’s Health Foundation is BC’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the full spectrum of women’s health. The information shared is intended to educate, inform, and point readers to credible sources. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of qualified healthcare professionals with any questions specific to your medical condition. For more information, visit HealthLinkBC.ca.