Debbe McCall

Thirteen years ago today, we lost Alexandra Rowan. Alex was just 23. She was independent and determined, a happy young woman with big dreams and ambitions. On October 30, 2013, it all stopped in an instant. She collapsed as she was leaving work and died hours later from a pulmonary embolism, a blood clot in the lungs, linked to hormonal birth control. She had no warning signs. Pulmonary embolism can strike without warning. That’s why Alexandra inspires our work every day: so women have the information they need to make informed choices and recognize the signs of a blood clot. Because even one life lost is one life too many. This year, we also hold close Alex’s mom, Roz, who passed away earlier this year. Today, we hope you’ll remember Alex with us. 💜

Menopause care involves many conversations, but blood clot risk may not always be one of them. Asking, “How could my menopause treatment options affect my clotting risk?” can help open an important discussion with your healthcare provider. Our Menopause & Hormone Therapy Discussion Guide includes questions about treatment options, personal risk factors, and ongoing care to support informed decisions. Download the guide: buff.ly/7ZiSXdj

Thank you. The past two weeks brought the launch of our Voices to Practice report and also World Thrombosis Day, and so many of you read, shared, and added your voices. Let’s stay connected. Follow the Rowan Foundation wherever you are for information about women’s health and blood clots, new resources, and stories from our community. 🌐 alexrowanfoundation.org ✉️ [email protected]