Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Geer Ripken.
Hi Kelly , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I have had a long interest in promoting women’s health and have done so for the last 4 decades and counting.
I believe the reason for this is because I was very sick in my early twenties. I had never experienced any “true” illnesses until I was 24. I woke up with a bad headache and it never went away for almost three years. During that time, I had seen 12 specialists and was put on 24 different medications. Nothing worked. I was very scared and thought I was not going to live a long life. Then one day I was referred to a psychiatrist as the doctors thought this all might just be “in my head.” Strange since I had lost over 25 pounds and was extremely tired all the time. The psychiatrist took one look at me and asked if anyone had done a thyroid profile blood test on me. The answer was no. So, he got his nurse to draw my blood, sent me home and said I will call you in a few days. Well, he did call me and told me that I have Graves disease which is an autoimmune disease that makes your thyroid work overtime. He sent me to an endocrinologist who helped me to get this under control. It took another 1 ½ to feel like my old self again but I was so relieved to finally know that all will be fine.
Because of that very stressful time in my life over thirty years ago I started a program at Johns Hopkins Medicine called “ Thyroid Education and Awareness . I did this so other women would not have to go through what I did. Education is a powerful tool especial when it comes to your health. This program still exists at Johns Hopkins Medicine.
So ,when Johns Hopkins A Woman’s Journey asked me if I would be their National Chair, I jumped at this incredible opportunity and here is why…..
Johns Hopkins Medicine’s annual women’s health programs, A Woman’s Journey reaches tens of thousands of female consumers from around the world, who learn about the latest medical advances from pioneers in their fields.
The program was founded thirty years ago by 2 remarkable women, Harriet Legum and Mollye Block. Their initial idea to empower women to make effective health care decisions for themselves and those they love continues today and is stronger then ever. There is a massive need for factual and up to the minute information on medical issues that affect our lives which is why A Woman’s Journey will be celebrating thirty years on Saturday November 23rd at the Marriot Waterfront Hotel in Baltimore. An in-person event that should not be missed! Register on our website :
hopkinsmedicine.org/awomansjourney
I am proud to be a part of A Woman’s Journey representing monthly podcasts, webcasts and emails. Along with in person events in the Baltimore/ Washington area. We have been able to reach 58 countries and counting.
A Women’s Journey is a major resource and trusted program for ALL women and their families.
I am honored to be a part of this incredibly unique program that continues to educate and support women here and around the world. We are making a difference in the way woman approach their health.
This is my passion!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No comment
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
A Woman’s Journey is focusing on a new podcast that shares health journeys of personalities which I will be hosting. Currently, we reach women of all color through increased engagement and expanding our special podcast series, A Journey for Women of Color. We are also committed to continuing to elevate the need for individuals to stay abreast of rapid advances in medicine. We also plan on engaging businesses and social organizations that align with our mission. A Woman’s Journey aspires to educate women about risks and symptoms of diseases so they can be diagnosed and treated early when the chances of success are greatest. If you would like additional information about the 30th anniversary program on Nov. 23 in Baltimore; our podcasts, webcasts and on demand library; community and organizations sponsorship, speakers and engagement, Please visit: hopkinsmedicine.org/awomansjourney, email awomansjourney@jhmi.edu or call 410-955-8660.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
A Woman’s Journey, Johns Hopkins Medicine
