Julianne Hough to Keynote #BlogHer18 Health

Celebrating the personal stories and medical innovation that produce positive impact in women’s health is core to the mission of #BlogHer18 Health. We are all super excited to share that we’ll be kicking off our health conference with a very personal story from actress, dancer and Emmy-award winning choreographer, Julianne Hough.

Julianne will open Day Two with a #LearnFromHer keynote discussion on her journey with endometriosis. Shockingly, this chronic and painful disease affects an estimated one in 10 women of reproductive age, yet some women can suffer for up to six to 10 years before proper diagnosis.

Despite being one of the most common gynecologic disorders in America, there is a lack of awareness and prioritization of endometriosis as an important women’s health issue. That’s bad for women. Like so many issues related to women’s reproductive and sexual health, this one has eluded public awareness.  I recall as a sixteen-year old doubled over in pain that, after months of  incorrect diagnoses, the endo-word crept into my teenage existence.  I never mentioned it again because no one else did.  We feel this issue deserves a spotlight because it is ours, and, like most things in our lives, we can master it if we can understand it. 

Julianne will be interviewed by author, doula, Glow Maven, and total inspiration, Latham Thomas. Their conversation will cover how Julianne is opening a dialogue through a new campaign called, SpeakENDO, for women who want to learn more about endometriosis, those who are trying to find out what may be causing their symptoms, as well as women already diagnosed with the disease.  Julianne hopes to ignite a conversation by utilizing her platform to bring about greater awareness of this underserved health issue.

While admired as a two-time professional champion on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars,” and an actress in some of the most epically fun movies (I’m desk-dancing to Don’t Stop Believin’ as I write), Julianne is also active in a wide range of philanthropic endeavors, charities and humanitarian efforts, including numerous causes and organizations that serve women and girls – a mission that is also near and dear to our hearts, minds and souls. 

Please join me in welcoming Julianne to the BlogHer stage on January 31st in NYC!  She’s going to crush it.