Wednesday 14th March, 2018
In today’s episode you’ll hear from Candice Bryan, the founder and CEO of Noire Wellness. We spoke to Candice about our campaign and she reflects on the how the campaign went, and Noire Wellness’ plans for supporting women with fibroids.
Yesterday, we were delighted to host another fibroids Twitter chat. Our special guest was Candice Bryan, the founder and CEO of Noire Wellness.
Noire Wellness seeks to improve the health and wellness of African and African Caribbean communities living in the UK. In 2017, she launched the #FibroidSeries wellness hub providing women with informative and engaging physical activity workshops and live demonstrations as a holistic approach to managing the effects of fibroids.
In our Twitter chat we had an interesting discussion with Candice about their fibroids wellness hub delving into their rationale for organising this event, the key issues and challenges that those who attended the hub raised about living with fibroids and how Noire Wellness aims to support women affected by fibroids.
If you missed the Twitter chat you can read our discussion below. Enjoy!
Hey Twitter family, it’s @AbiBegho here and it’s my pleasure to welcome you to another one of The Lake Foundation’s #fibroids #Twitter chats. #FibroidsChat (1/5)
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
Today we’ll be reflecting on @noirewellness‘s recent #fibroids wellness hub and what was learnt from this innovative event with our fantastic guest @KandiceBryan who is the founder and CEO of @NoireWellness. #FibroidsChat #FibroidSeries (2/5)
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
We’ll also be learning more about the work of @NoireWellness and finding out about their plans for the future, not just for fibroids but in other areas #FibroidsChat (3/5)
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
Now…drum roll please…..😀
It’s my pleasure to introduce our guest @KandiceBryan.
Please tell us a bit about who you are and what you do. #FibroidsChat (5/5)— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
Thank you @TheLakeFound for invitation to join #FibroidsChat. Greetings all! It’s @KandiceBryan here founder of @NoireWellness, mother, partner & sister to many. Having worked in sport development for over 20 years I have a passion for inclusive fitness & wellness diversity 1/2
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Our mission @NoireWellness is to improve the health & wellness of African & Caribbean communities through the provision of local community #wellness #hubs, consultancy services & a growing wellness business network of professionals #FibroidsChat 2/2
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
You’re very welcome @KandiceBryan. Thank you so much for joining us and thank you for your great introduction. You’ve got a great bio and lots of experience so we can’t wait to get started #FibroidsChat
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
We’ll get started with our first question
So @KandiceBryan, tell us why your organisation has started to focus on #fibroids? #fibroidschat #NoireWellness
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
Part of our #community #wellness #hub offer is to tackle health conditions that specifically impact on #African & #AfricanCaribbean people living in the UK such as #Diabetes #SickleCell #Lupus #MentalHealth & #Fibroids 1/3
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
We hosted our first 12 week pilot #community #wellness #hub in 2016.This incl. a range of sessions incl. a workshop on #Fibroids which we asked you @TheLakeFound to deliver : ) We realised 8 out of 11 guests had #Fibroids and didn’t declare this on their forms #FibroidsChat 2/3
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
After speaking to guests, reviewing evaluations & wider research incl. @theLakeFound very own study it was clear #Fibroids is a major silent issue that’s more aggressive & frequent amongst black women. #FibroidsChat 3/3
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
After speaking to guests, reviewing evaluations & wider research incl. @theLakeFound very own study it was clear #Fibroids is a major silent issue that’s more aggressive & frequent amongst black women. #FibroidsChat 3/3
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
The lack of research & no real common consensus on the causes of #Fibroids especially amongst black women (as it is said to be more common). Most surprising is the lack of support, guidance & information given to women expected to have life changing surgeries #FibroidsChat 1/2
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Repeated testimonies of catastrophic experiences have for me highlighted how detrimental the #mismanagement of #Fibroids can have on quality of life. From relationships to career progression, friendships to low self-esteem. #FibroidsChat 2/2
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
.@KandiceBryan, You recently organised a very innovative event, the #fibroids wellness hub to provide women with support. Can you tell us about this event? #fibroidschat
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
Thank you our #wellness #hub provided informative & engaging physical activities workshops & live demonstrations to help manage & reduce the effects of #fibroids. Supported by wellness specialists, thought-leaders & professionals we explored a holistic approach #FibroidsChat 1/4
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
We selected a variety of #wellness professionals who could relate to our audience whilst highlighting the rich traditions of #Africa & the #Caribbean. Typically our community has been conditioned to embrace other #cultural norms & values #FibroidsChat 2/4
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
So our sessions heavily focus on bringing our guests “back to their roots” through #wellness, #PhysicalActivities & educational workshops. This creates an environment that is homely, warm & welcoming #FibroidsChat 3/4
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Everything we do at @NoireWellness is inspired by #Africa & the #Caribbean. From #nutrition to #afrikanyoga, #mentalhealth to #yonisteaming we delved into the richness of ancient remedies and traditions on the day #FibroidsChat 4/4
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
.@KandiceBryan, It’s great that your event took a holistic look at managing fibroids. How important is it for women with fibroids to explore not just the medical side but their lifestyle when managing fibroids. What lifestyle factors should they focus on? #fibroidschat
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
It’s becoming increasingly important to explore #lifestyle factors when managing #Fibroids as we have gathered evidence which suggests that even the smallest changes can positive outcomes. 1/3
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
There’s alot of conflicting information & I would always say that you’re the expert of your body. So when we begin to explore and re-connect, this self-discovery may in fact assist the medical side #FibroidsChat 2/3
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Focussing on areas that have been neglected would be my advice. #Stress #Diet & #PhysicalActivity are the initial lifestyle factors that come to mind. #FibroidsChat 3/3
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Fibroids, Endometriosis, PCOS issues are so complex that eating properly to control or heal symptoms can be very intimidating. found that teaching proper eating habits works better in VERY VERY tiny and practical doses. It can get overwhelming real fast. #FibroidsChat
— Laterria Patton (@selfcareandfood) December 13, 2017
Self awareness goes a long way when it comes to health because many things can contribute to a health issue. Individualized care helps us to create a stronger relationship with our own reproductive organs. #FibroidsChat
— Laterria Patton (@selfcareandfood) December 13, 2017
Diet & nutrition are now being researched for #Fibroids #FibroidsChat @TheLakeFound @NoireWellness . Self management of long term conditions like #fibroids & endometriosis, can be effective, without side effects. Fresh fruit & vegetables reduces risk of fibroids
— Fibroid Network UK (@fibroidsupport) December 13, 2017
.@KandiceBryan What were some of the most common challenges that women who attended the event raised about fibroids? #fibroidschat
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
Since the event we’ve had continued dialogue with guests, professionals & #volunteers. We’ve found that the biggest challenge is a lack of #information & #support #FibroidsChat 1/3
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Absolutely agree! #FibroidsChat https://t.co/5enxz8wLof
— thefibroidforum (@fibroidforum) December 13, 2017
Some of the common challenges were about eating habits & #foods that worsen the effects &/or growth of #Fibroids & the innate need to regain control of our bodies #FibroidsChat 2/3
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
A large number of guests spoke about feeling pressured into considering #hysterectomies and lack of empathy & knowledge of #Fibroids from doctors #FibroidsChat 3/3
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
A large number of guests spoke about feeling pressured into considering #hysterectomies and lack of empathy & knowledge of #Fibroids from doctors #FibroidsChat 3/3
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Are there reasons why #fibroids can affect black women more or is it not researched enough? #FibroidsChat
— WombCancerSupportUK (@WombCancerUK) December 13, 2017
We found poor diets, lack of exercise, trauma and lack of vitamin D were some of the suggested reasons. But a lack of research is unhelpful #FibroidsChat
— Noire Wellness (@NoireWellness) December 13, 2017
Lack of proper research is not helpful. Same with #wombcancer unfortunately. They blame it all on #obesity & being lazy but slim, fit women get it too. #WomensHealthMatters #FibroidsChat
— WombCancerSupportUK (@WombCancerUK) December 13, 2017
Lack of proper research is not helpful. Same with #wombcancer unfortunately. They blame it all on #obesity & being lazy but slim, fit women get it too. #WomensHealthMatters #FibroidsChat
— WombCancerSupportUK (@WombCancerUK) December 13, 2017
Great question. I think we need to first take responsibility for the health of our communities & stop expecting a one size fits all approach. So organisations like @NoireWellness @TheLakeFound @BHILeeds @SportingEquals @GessieTUG must commit to a strategic plan 1/3 #FibroidsChat
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
of action that tackles #Fibroids on a national & global scale. @NHSEngland & @PHE_uk need to lend more support to orgs like @FibroidNetwork @fibroidsupport @fibroidforum to further research & development #FibroidsChat 2/3
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
We need to pool our resources & create more effective infrastructures to tackle #Fibroids & improve health and well-being of our communities to reduce the £ pressure on traditional services structures #FibroidsChat 3/3
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Wow! I didn’t realise the time! It sure has flown. We have about 15 minute left here with our #fibroidschat. Any questions, comments? We’re going to squeeze our last few questions in.
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
.@KandiceBryan, I’m going to hit you with two questions 🙂
What workshops or presentation did attendees find most enlightening and why?
Did you gain any interesting insights to fibroids or learn anything new that you weren’t aware of before your event? #fibroidschat— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
#Emotional Impacts & #Nutrition were reported to be most valuable. Some of our guests said that they hadn’t had a space to talk with others who truly understood battles & challenges they face #FibroidsChat 1/2
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
We were glad to be able to connect guests with all #wellness facilitators to continue their journey. Hosting an event is great. But it’s the follow up that will inevitably provide the support and information needed #FibroidsChat 2/2
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
.@KandiceBryan, I’m going to move on a bit due to time – sorry! What other events and support will you be offering in the future for women with fibroids? #fibroidschat
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
That’s ok! Its been a pleasure : ) We’re planning to host another #FibroidSeries #Wellness #Hub in summer 2018 at a bigger venue in a more central location, an online webinar series & a special intimate event for guests #FibroidChat 1/2
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
We’re also looking at the possibility of hosting a #Fibroids #Retreat with you @TheLakeFound in the #Caribbean which we are super excited about! #FibroidChat 2/2
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
We’ve created a #fibroids specific newsletter that women living with #Fibroids can sign up to here https://t.co/i97rplV9LH for direct enquiries they can email us info@noirewellness.com #FibroidsChat 1/2
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Our long awaited website is set to go live in early 2018 where we will have blog posts relating to #Fibroids, our continued work with @TheLakeFound & info on our network of #wellness professionals #FibroidsChat 2/2
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Our long awaited website is set to go live in early 2018 where we will have blog posts relating to #Fibroids, our continued work with @TheLakeFound & info on our network of #wellness professionals #FibroidsChat 2/2
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
.@KandiceBryan any final tips or advice you can share for women living with fibroids? #fibroidschat
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
Do not fight #Fibroids in s i l e n c e. Reach out to organisations and connect with other women who have #Fibroids. #FibroidsChat 1/1
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
@KandiceBryan, just two more questions 🙂
1. Noire Wellness doesn’t just focus on fibroids can you tell us about other work that you have conducted and your plans for the future. #fibroidschat (1/2)
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
I have a passion for #research & so will continue to build on that through @NoireWellness and publish some of this work on our website in the future. 1/4 #FibroidsChat
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
We @NoireWellness work to provide a range of evolving & enriching wellness experiences throughout the year. By engaging a carefully selected tribe of wellness professionals we have nurtured 2/4 #FibroidsChat
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
the provision of #community #wellness #hubs, #consultancy services & a growing wellness business #network. 3/4 #FibroidsChat
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
The creation of weekly #hubs for #over 60s & holiday provision for #children are part of our plans as well as seeking financial backing to accelerate other plans. Watch this space! #FibroidsChat 4/4
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
.@KandiceBryan question 2:
What has been the most rewarding part of your journey with @NoireWellness and what have some of the challenges been, how have you overcome them? #fibroidschat (2/2)
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
I simply love what I do : ) Since conducting research in 2004 it has been part of my purpose but never had the courage to follow it. Now it’s a vision that has turned into a plan #FibroidsChat 1 /2
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Its been great to speak at a number of events this year to connect with sisters even more. Something I never thought would form part of our offer #FibroidsChat 2/2😀
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Well folks….we are coming to the end of the chat. Would you like to add anything else or leave us with any wise words, @KandiceBryan
And does anyone have any questions for @KandiceBryan #fibroidschat
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
If you live with #Fibroids please seek help and support from existing organisations & professionals like @SarjosWholistic @naturalyoucoach @mamalunayoni @TweetKymOliver @LeneaHerew #FibroidsChat 2/4
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Worldwide there are many National Studies involving 1,000’s of women re diet & lifestyle. In UK there is no research in this field, only drugs & surgery. It’s a blinkered approach unlike with Diabetes or Breast Cancer where self management & prevention is encouraged #FibroidsChat
— Fibroid Network UK (@fibroidsupport) December 13, 2017
There is an increase hysterectomies for #fibroids @TheLakeFound @kandicebryan @fibroidforum @NoireWellness On fibroid forums, it sometimes relates to women giving up after failed treatments ie medical treatments ie concerns re side effects that Drs don’t mention #FibroidsChat
— Fibroid Network UK (@fibroidsupport) December 13, 2017
Thank you. We’re very keen to hear from women who have reduced and/or eliminated #Fibroids using a #holistic approach info@noirewellness.com #FibroidsChat 1/ 4
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
We partnered with #TanyaKayBeautyLifestyle who offered soothing #massage treatments on the day. ALL clients were overwhelmed with just how good they felt after 3/4 #FibroidsChat
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Reclaim time for #selfcare get in touch with Tanya by visiting https://t.co/70A6xquQqb Most importantly – Do not suffer in silence. #FibroidsChat 4/4
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
If you live with #Fibroids please seek help and support from existing organisations & professionals like @SarjosWholistic @naturalyoucoach @mamalunayoni @TweetKymOliver @LeneaHerew #FibroidsChat 2/4
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Thanks so much for your hard work! Continued success next year &many years to come! #fibroidschat
— thefibroidforum (@fibroidforum) December 13, 2017
A BIG BIG thank you to everyone who joined us tonight, it was wonderful to have you and we hope you found this chat useful.
This will be the last chat of the year and we’ll be back in 2018. If you would like to join us as a guest Tweeter, please get in touch. #fibroidschat.
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
If there are no more questions or comments, then we have to say goodnight, but before we go @KandiceBryan, if people want more information how can they contact you? #fibroidschat
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
Thank you for having me again. It’s such an important cause that can no longer be ignored. Keep up the great work @TheLakeFound @AbiBegho #Fibroids #FibroidsChat
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Sure, people can contact me direct candice@noirewellness.com or follow us @NoireWellness Thank you to everyone who participated! Onward we continue! Rest Well #FibroidsChat
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Bye bye everyone and thanks so much for joining us, be sure to follow @NoireWellness and @KandiceBryan here on Twitter to keep up with all their news and development. Have a great evening all and take care. See you next time #FibroidsChat
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
Thank you for your continued support! It is women who have sucessfully overcome #Fibroids that will help us all to grow and raise further awareness. see you next time on @TheLakeFound #FibroidsChat
— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017
Summary of #Fibroid Research findings re: Black women with #Fibroids , fertility, lifestyle, stress, statistics etc @fibroidsupport @fibroidforum @TheLakeFound @NoireWellness @KandiceBryanhttps://t.co/QyiivtCRKW #FibroidsChat
— Fibroid Network UK (@fibroidsupport) December 13, 2017
A BIG BIG thank you to everyone who joined us tonight, it was wonderful to have you and we hope you found this chat useful.
This will be the last chat of the year and we’ll be back in 2018. If you would like to join us as a guest Tweeter, please get in touch. #fibroidschat.
— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017
The complex issue is finding the best treatment, in the UK , which for many , must include , preserving their fertility & getting back to wellness. Some NHS Treatments , don’t help them to reach all of their goals. Hope to #FibroidsChat more again @TheLakeFound
— Fibroid Network UK (@fibroidsupport) December 13, 2017
@TheLakeFound @KandiceBryanTonight was informative, passionate & inspiring. Thanks for hosting and sharing your expertise! #fibroidschat
— thefibroidforum (@fibroidforum) December 13, 2017
Our next fibroids Twitter chat will be with Candice Bryan on 13th December from 9pm to 10pm (UK time)
Candice Bryan is the founder of Noire Wellness which seeks to improve the health and wellness of African and African Caribbean communities living in the UK. In 2017, she launched the #FibroidSeries wellness hub providing women with informative and engaging physical activity workshops and live demonstrations as a holistic approach to managing the effects of fibroids.
She is a thought-leader and speaker on a variety of topics related to sport development, inclusive fitness and wellness diversity. She draws her fitness experience from over 20 years working across the sector including the management of a multi-award winning disability fitness project where she supported over 120 disabled people to become qualified fitness instructors.
As a dedicated researcher in the field of sport and wellness and the current chair of Active Harrow, Candice oversees the implementation of their physical activity and sports strategy and delivery of action plans. More recently Candice has joined the I.D Radio team as their first wellness presenter hosting weekly shows to connect with audiences across the globe inspiring desires to be well.
This Twitter chat has been organised to allow for an in-depth discussion with Candice to highlight the great work her organisation is doing with their holistic approach to fibroids. We’ll be discussing Noire Wellness’ recent fibroids wellness hub, what she learnt from this innovative event and their future plans for supporting women with fibroids.
We’ll be putting questions to Candice and you can put your questions to her too. So if you have a burning question about fibroids or just want to get involved in the discussion then do join us on the day. To take part in the conversation please use the hashtag #FibroidsChat.
For more information on Candice and Noire Welllness, please visit www.noirewellness.com or follow her on twitter @KandiceBryan