Since March is Endometriosis Awareness month I thought it would be great to get my fundraising boots on and walk 10km every Saturday in March for a great cause that effects 1 in 10 women. 

Endometriosis (pronounced en- doh – mee – tree – oh – sis) is an inflammatory disease in which cells similar to the ones in the lining of the womb grow elsewhere in the body. There's no way of preventing Endometriosis, no cause as to why it happens or a cure.

In September 2020 I was diagnosed with Endometriosis. It was a relief FINALLY knowing what the problem was. I was starting to think I was going mad. I've always had bad pain associated with my cycle but the pain had gotten worse and was constant over the past four years. Not being able to get out of bed and doing normal life was starting to become more frequent and knew something wasn't right.

Telling doctors my issues was hard as an adult. I didn't want to waste their time. This was stemming from being dismissed at a young age being told it's normal biological pains. After having a multitude of tests and scans without an answer was really frustrating. I was told that it was psychological and was even told to 'man up' in regards to the pain.

Luckily for me I have supportive family, friends and colleagues that encouraged me to be my own advocate and keep going. Being persistent paid off. I saw that one doctor that listened to me, asked the right questions, have the right knowledge when she suggested it sounded like Endometriosis and sent me to see a specialist. 15+ years and that was the first time I saw a gynaecology specialist. How mad is that?! 

That specialist told me the only way of diagnosis in my case is through surgery. Low and behold the Endo was found and treated but this however does not mean I'm cured and the chances of me having more surgeries & treatment will be likely. 

On average it takes 7.5 years to get a diagnosis. This is because there's a lack of knowledge in the healthcare field as well as women of all ages who are unaware of healthy menstrual health and therefore suffering in silence. Speak up and know you're not alone! 

I'm hoping by sharing my story, I will help get the word out and the money fundraised can go toward getting support and healthcare treatment to those who very much need it. All donations great and small are hugely appreciated and will go a long way until a cure is found.

Thank you for taking the time to read my entry :)