In honor of Mother's Day 2024, Surety proudly highlights the incredible story of Mama Ong, the mother of our co-founder, who embodies the resilience and strength that Surety seeks to inspire in mature individuals.
Her story is what brought Surety to life!
Who is Mother Ong?
At a time in life when many women face uncertainty, Mama Ong offers a refreshing perspective on adapting and thriving during this phase of her life.
As a spirited individual in her 50s, Mama Ong leads a life marked by varied interests, including gardening and caring for her beloved pets, hamsters, and gerbils. These hobbies bring her joy and also provide a sense of calm and balance amidst the changes brought about by menopause.
The Early Days and Initial Fears
When menopause was first on the horizon, Mama Ong admits she was scared. Her initial fear stemmed from witnessing her own mother's challenging experience with menopause, which was marked by significant mood swings and stress. However, Mama Ong's journey has taught her that each woman’s experience is unique and that menopause does not dictate one's quality of life.
"I was scared initially because I saw what my mother went through. She was quite affected by menopause, but I have learned that it is not the same for everyone. You can shape your own journey," Mama Ong reflects.
While simply letting nature take its course, Mama Ong uses her mother's experiences as a reminder to herself. She recalls the feelings she had as a recipient of those emotions, and this memory serves as a vital tool in her own journey. It prompts her to constantly review her reactions and emotions—whether it's anger, sadness, or any form of emotional rollercoaster—ensuring she navigates these changes with understanding and grace.
Transitioning Through Menopause
As she transitioned from peri-menopause to menopause to post-menopause, Mama Ong noticed the first signs and symptoms, such as mood fluctuations and changes in energy levels. Rather than resist these changes, she chose to embrace them (after a period of time), seeing them as natural and manageable with the right mindset and support.
"Menopause isn’t an end but a new beginning. It’s about embracing who you can become," she shares enthusiastically.
"Mood is subjective. While my mother feels that she has toned down, which she has to some extent, as a recipient, I noticed other aspects became more pronounced. She became easily irritated over the smallest things and struggled to accept the changes as I was growing up," Valery shares.
Health Challenges and Insights
Though not significantly impacted by chronic illnesses like hypertension or diabetes, Mama Ong emphasizes the importance of a supportive network. Her family, especially her daughter played a crucial role in her well-being, providing emotional support and motivation to stay healthy and active.
Mama Ong believes in the power of positivity and resilience. She managed the mental and emotional aspects of menopause by maintaining her hobbies, which kept her grounded and focused. Additionally, regular check-ins with medical professionals helped her navigate any physical and emotional challenges effectively.
"Keeping a positive outlook and staying engaged with life’s little joys has been key to my well-being," she asserts.
Shifting Perspectives on Health and Aging
Menopause and other life experiences has altered Mama Ong’s views on health and aging. She now sees this phase as an opportunity to focus more on herself and make lifestyle adjustments that prioritize wellness and personal happiness.
It is a chance to renew one’s approach to health, rather than a period of loss.
Advice for Others
For those approaching menopause, Mama Ong advises:
Embrace the Change: Understand that menopause is a natural phase, not something to fear.
Monitor Your Health: Stay proactive about your health. Regular medical check-ups and being attuned to your body’s needs can make a significant difference.
Seek Support: Lean on family, friends, and professionals. You are not alone in this journey.
Stay Active and Engaged: Continue engaging in activities you love. This can greatly enhance your emotional and mental well-being.
A Message of Hope
She encourages women to view menopause not just as an end to a certain phase of life but as the beginning of another, filled with potential for personal growth and deeper self-understanding.
“Let’s reshape how we think about menopause. It’s not just a series of symptoms to manage, but a time to realign with what truly makes us happy,” Mama Ong inspires
.
Through Mama Ong’s experiences, we are reminded that while menopause is a universal phase, the journey through it is deeply personal. With the right support and attitude, it's possible to transition into this stage with grace and vitality, turning what many fear into a period of rejuvenation and empowerment!
𝐋𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐭, 𝐚 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐨-𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐦𝐚 𝐎𝐧𝐠:
"As I was growing up, you were also growing older. We were both growing together; you gave birth to me at 26, even though you weren't quite ready. Thank you for sacrificing your body, mind, and time to bring me into this world. It has been a wild journey together and it continues to be one. You are my partner-in-crime, mother, best friend, and sometimes even my adversary. Let's continue to age gracefully into our later years, and yes, let's keep putting on those eyelash extensions and injecting fillers even when we are 70 and 96."
Love, Valery
Join her and Surety in redefining the menopause experience—one story, one lesson, one empowered woman at a time.
Note: You don't need to be in peri-menopause, menopause, or post-menopause to share your story! Feel free to share experiences from family members, friends, or even your own views on this underserved community in Singapore.
Contact us at contact@suretysg.com to share your story!
Disclaimers: This article has been vetted and agreed upon by mentioned individuals. This article shares an individual’s journey and is not universal advice or experience. Content is for informational purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional for medical advice. We aim for accuracy but cannot guarantee it. Reliance on any information here is at your own risk. External links are not endorsed by us. This is not sponsored. Reader discretion is advised for topics on health challenges. Reader stories are personal experiences, not professional advice. Readers should consult healthcare professionals for personal medical concerns.