Bio: Carolyn Bordeaux, 53, St. Paul

Last update: February 23, 2006 - 10:44 AM

Her story: Bordeaux never considered hormone therapy and wishes reporters didn't use words like "symptoms." "As a Native woman, I don't think of those natural occurrences in that way." Instead Bordeaux, a Lakota Indian from the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, has found physical and spiritual comfort from herbal medicine (black cohosh, teas), acupuncture, close women friends and two medicine men who are helping her achieve balance. A teacher of American Indian studies at Minneapolis Community and Technical College, she also serves on the Board at Hazelden, and just celebrated her 25th year of sobriety. "Recovery is an important part of going through menopause with more ease," Bordeaux said. "Each year is getting better. People are saying, `You look good!'" - GAIL ROSENBLUM

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