Getting her life back after years in limbo
Justine Major had a vibrant, active life as a theatre and literature instructor in Montréal—she loved to move, create and share her passion. But at the age of 36, that all changed and nothing could have prepared her for what happened next.
One day, right at the start of her menstrual period, she was hit by searing pain. She was rushed to the hospital and at first, doctors suspected gastroenteritis. But this was just the beginning of a long struggle with terrible dizziness, numerous fainting spells and ER trip after ER trip, never getting a clear answer.
10 years without answers
The attacks came again and again, each one more intense than the last. Sometimes, her pulse dropped perilously, her body went limp and she was overwhelmed by incapacitating pain. The more hospitals she went to, the more hypotheses were floated, but none of them could fully explain the problems she was dealing with.
Despite all her uncertainty and exhaustion, Justine refused to give up. She kept searching—for understanding, and for hope.
And then, in 2022, one meeting changed everything.
Answers at last
At the Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Antaki finally connected the dots: her symptoms might be caused by an excessive, menstruation-related hormonal reaction. He also suspected she had endometriosis, a condition that often remains difficult to diagnose.
He suggested a simple but effective treatment: starting an anti-inflammatory medication as soon as symptoms appeared.
“It was a miracle. Since then, I haven’t had to go to the ER once.”
For the first time in years, Justine’s pain eased. Her day-to-day got better. But she was still dealing with another issue: heavy bleeding coupled with constant fatigue.
Lasting relief
After examining her case, Ian Brochu, the gynecologist overseeing her care at the CHUM, suggested a hysterectomy. This was a major decision, but one that offered hope after years in limbo.
The surgery also ended up confirming that she had endometriosis. At last, everything was explained.
What Justine remembers, beyond the medical help, was the compassion she felt in the operating room.
“I felt an incredible level of attention and care… like a whole scientific orchestra, coming together to give people back their lives.”
Breathing easy again
Since the operation, Justine has felt free again, even though it’s been a long road to full recovery. Little by little, her energy is coming back.
She’s given herself a symbolic challenge to celebrate this fresh start: participating in the Marathon Beneva de Montréal. It’s her way of honouring those who supported her, listened to her and cared for her.
“The CHUM gave me back my life by giving me access to free, compassionate care.”
Her story reminds us that, beyond diagnoses and treatments, a listening ear, perseverance and expertise can transform someone’s medical journey—and give them back room to breathe and hope for the future.
