Thanks for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page. We are running the London Landmarks Half Marathon in aid of Endometriosis UK - an incredible organisation doing very important work to raise awareness and research into this condition. It's a cause close to our heart after Diane got diagnosed and had surgery to treat endometriosis in 2020.

Endometriosis is the name given to the condition where cells similar to the ones in the lining of the womb are found elsewhere in the body. Each month these cells react in the same way to those in the womb, building up and then breaking down and bleeding. The condition can cause chronic pain, inflammation, fatigue and infertility - all of which can have a severe impact on the sufferer's day to day life, affecting their mental health, relationships and ability to fulfil work and social commitments. In the UK, it is estimated that as many as 1 in 10 women are living with the condition, which on average takes 8 years to diagnose. It can affect you from puberty to menopause, although the impact may be felt for life.

Diane's story...

In September 2020, after more than 16 years of going back and forth to doctors about varying issues with my periods and chronic pain, I was finally diagnosed with endometriosis. Leading up to my diagnosis, each month the pain would be unbearable, leaving me bent in two unable to get up, my temperature would sky rocket, I'd throw up, be unable to work, cancel social engagements, the list goes on. 

Over the years I went back and forth to GPs and gynaecologists who didn't have any answers and provided stronger painkillers and other tablets to help mask the symptoms. I felt like I was weak and somehow as if I just had a poor tolerance for pain. It got to the point where I was scared of my period arriving each month because I didn't know how much pain I would be in. It was impacting my personal, social and professional life.

In summer 2020, my husband Brendan, unable to see me in pain anymore urged me to visit the doctors again. Thankfully I was seen by an incredible gynaecologist who was able to provide me with a diagnosis and advised surgery was the best route forward. The surgery has changed my life, and although I know it's unlikely to have solved the problem forever, for now I feel immensely grateful. 

It's vital that we raise greater awareness of and support for this condition. My hope in sharing my story is that if you, a friend or loved one is suffering they may be able to push for answers and a proper diagnosis to help with treatment. Endometriosis UK do amazing work in this regard, campaigning for greater research and awareness, as well as providing support and information for sufferers. If you can afford to donate anything at all, we would be immensely grateful. x