Menopause for many is an assault to the mind and body. I felt as if someone had taken the real me away forever. I was irritable. I developed severe insomnia. This impacted my work performance and my personal relationships. It also wiped out any interest in intimacy with my partner. He felt hurt and confused by the profound change in me. It caused a strain on our relationship. I mourned the old me. I was only 54. Was this it? Had I hit old age? I was depressed and felt hopeless. This went on for several years. I did take hormone pills that were not compounded. They helped hot flashes and night sweats for which I was grateful but I was still not myself until I tried compounded hormones it was a stunning change. I sleep. I’m happy. I am me again. Please do not take this away. I’m enjoying being around people again. My personal relationships are satisfying again. This has been a gift.