A few years ago, I miscarried. What I didn't realized about miscarriage is that it's not just dealing with the emotional crater; there's a whole logistical nightmare you have to go through to be "done" with that pregnancy. When I miscarried, I was in the early days of running my company, shuttling between Boston and New York. I miscarried in Boston, where my doctor was, and I needed to be back in New York in a few days. I didn't want to tell anyone at my company because I wasn't able to talk about it without crying – still can't. I wanted to fit the procedure into a tight schedule so that I didn't have to explain my absence. "If you need to do this tomorrow," my OB said, "the only way I can fit you in is if we do it in my clinic, not the OR. That means no anesthesia." I was emotionally wiped so I said, let's knock this out tomorrow. It was excruciating. But it was done. And at least I didn't need to worry that my decision would be subject to scrutiny. I didn't need anyone's permission to do something my doctor and I decided was the right move. Women need good, compassionate, and flexible healthcare to participate in the workforce.
Kat Kennedy
1y
You’re an incredible leader Roxanne. Grateful to know you ❤️
THIS. ➡ "Women need good, compassionate, and flexible healthcare to participate in the workforce." Thank you for sharing a deeply personal story Roxanne Bras Petraeus.
Debbie L.
1y
I really admire your work at Ethena and your posts on leadership. Thanks for demonstrating that I can lead with vulnerability at work and off ❤️
Am responding to a question regarding skills brought to civilian life following Military training. # 1 : MISSION SENSITIVITY, Most people are expecting work to be fun, work is about completing the task at all cost!, The fun comes after you accomplish the goal. DEDICATION to the task! Multi-tasking with focus. I have found these skills are not taught in high school or college outside Engineering programs.
Imagine a "good ole boy" in government or even an intrusive citizen in a red state evaluating your future actions, which is now a distinct probability.
I also agree that flexible healthcare is essential to both female employees, but also to men. Most men don't go to doctors for preventative care. We go when absolutely necessary short of surgery. Just as in the military, you train to fight to the death, we live the same way.
Amy Jin
1y
Your courage and leadership is a ripple that has a significant and mighty impact, Roxanne, even if we may not be able to see it right now. Thank you for lighting a torch for every woman/man/person who may benefit from this at some point in their career and lives.
Mike Slagh
1y
💚
Abby Daya
1y
Thank you so much for sharing, Roxanne. ❤
VP Marketing @ Respondology | Fractional Marketing Leader | Coach
1yRoxanne Bras Petraeus thank you for sharing such a vulnerable time in your life in service of illuminating and supporting what women need to succeed.