Kesgrave Parkrun manager Jen Evans to use 5k event to educate women on the menopause

In honour of World Menopause Day, the organiser of Kesgrave’s Parkrun is hoping to shine a light on women’s health.

Jen Evans, who introduced the 5k course to the town in 2014, wants to use its weekly event to offer participants the chance to ‘walk and talk’ about the menopause.

Hundreds of residents show up to keep fit each week at the event, which takes place every Saturday – a large number of whom are women aged 40 to 60, she said.

And Kesgrave Town Council offered its support to Ms Evans, who will use Millennium Hall, as well as the event itself, to help women who may be seeking answers.

The mum-of-two said: “A large number of our registered members are women, which differs from Parkrun’s in other towns, and so we have a vested interest in showcasing women’s health.

“If people leave and they have learned something new about the menopause, then I’ve done my job and the event will have been a success.

“Looking after their health is paramount for every woman – but at the ages where the menopause can occur are vital. You could still have a fair number of years before retirement, so you have to look after yourself.

“We have a high percentage of women in Kesgrave Parkrun, so I wanted to celebrate the fact there are a lot of us taking part.”

Ms Evans, who has some qualifications in women’s health, has been in contact with other professionals to help answer any questions participants – regardless of gender – could have about the menopause.

An information point will be set up, and some resources, including pamphlets and leaflets, will be handed out.

This is the first time the topic has come up in Kesgrave’s Parkrun, but hopefully not the last, Ms Evans said.

Ms Evans said started taking part in Parkruns in Ipswich 11 years ago when ‘the menopause was a long way away’ – and just wanted to bring a free event to its neighbouring town.

However, it was important to her now, she noted, as she still has at least 25 years ahead of her before she retires.

“I've got to make sure I'm healthy, strong and fit and able to work,” Ms Evans said. “A few decades ago women would retire at 55, but it could soon hit 70 – long after they experience menopause.”

World Menopause Day takes place every year on October 18, and aims to break the stigma and highlight support for women experiencing menopause.

Kesgrave’s Parkrun begins and ends at Millennium Hall on October 21.

The race kicks off at 9am.