Passion For Innovation

June 15, 2019

With an open heart and mind, I’ve always had a passion to learn, grow and to know more. Of course I always wondered what was “wrong” with my body and why I was plagued by heavy menstrual flow, but I was also curious to know what other women were going through.

As the seeds for Flow 2 Freedom were planted, I embarked on a mission to learn more. I knew knowledge would open the door to greater innovation.

I interviewed hundreds of women, from all walks and stages of life, about their periods, post-pregnancy incontinence, and bladder leakage. We got personal. These women graciously told me about their pain, embarrassment, and changes they experienced with their bodies. We talked about sensitivity to the chemicals, materials, and plastics of mainstream feminine products, and there were lots of conversations about the ongoing issues around sustainability, plastic waste, and the effects of fast fashion. It was eye opening, but also reassuring to know I wasn’t alone – read the stories of these incredible women for yourself.

The conversations continued with medical professionals, including doctors, naturopaths, and physiotherapists. I attended conferences and workshops on menstruation and the female body. I was hungry for more knowledge and understanding.

I had in my hands a lot of data, information, and awareness. It was time to pour all this into creating a workable prototype and testing to see if it could work. My biggest end goal was to produce leak-proof athletic-wear that made you look and feel good and was eco-friendly as well. It’s so important in this day and age to consider the current and future effects we have on the environment.

I was introduced to several kinds of materials and processes, and ended up choosing to use recycled polyester treated with the natural compound chitosan. The fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles – in fact, you’ll be wearing approximately six plastic bottles when you pull on a pair of Flow 2 Freedom pants. Chitosan is, basically, crushed crab or shrimp shells, and it’s a natural anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal agent. No harsh chemicals on your sensitive skin. Fewer greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Plus, breathable and water repellent fabric that offers wicking and SPF 50 protection.

By using material that conserves water and energy and removes some plastic waste from our planet, I’m so proud to offer a product that’s friendly to the environment – and I love that this material tells a story and has a history. There really was no other way I could feel good about creating a line of apparel. We all have a responsibility to make a difference.

After rounds of development and once we felt we had fulfilled our objectives of fit, performance, and sustainability, we invited athletes and trainers to try out the products. The positive feedback was overwhelming. All that hard work had paid off and I could finally hold Flow 2 Freedom in my hands – a high quality pair of workout tights that also protected women from leakage.

Curiosity is a strength, a quality that leads to growth and empathy. Once we seek perspective from others, our own worlds are widened. Which is one reason why I’m sharing my story – the experiences of others inspire us to expand our potential and I can only hope that by sharing mine will give you strength to own yours.