I have decided to take part in the #walkforendo challenge to raise money/awareness for endometriosis. 

My story.

A few years ago I started to have severe abdominal pains which resulted in me going to a&e a number of times over a couple of months, only to be sent home with the instruction to take paracetamol for the pain.

I had numerous ultrasounds and x-rays to try find the root of my pain but nothing was picked up. After repeatedly going back to my GP to seek help and advice he asked me what I wanted him to do as he was at a loss..

After months of falsely being told my pain was due to period pains, suspected gall stones, ovarian cyst ruptures, an sti and my personal favourite, constipation (lol) I decided it was time to seek specialist help.

I finally went private and was directed to my now amazing consultant. I walked out of my appointment crying with relief knowing someone was finally listening to me. I was booked in for exploratory surgery and everything was looking positive.

I had my first laparoscopy and was told I had stage 4 endometriosis (severe), it was wrapped around my bowel and plastered across my pelvis. Knowing I had something wrong with me and it wasn’t all in my head was the biggest relief.

I have now had 5 surgeries to treat my endometriosis and adhesions. I don’t feel like this is all over just yet but I feel confident dealing with the situation I’m in and know now to never take good health for granted.

My scars are nothing to be ashamed of and I’m so proud of everything I have overcome. My boyfriend, family and friends have showed nothing but love and support throughout and I couldn’t be more thankful.

Most women aren’t as fortunate as me and it can take 7.5 years on average to receive a diagnosis. The physical and emotional pain it causes is indescribable. If you can’t donate please share endometriosis UK’s website to share awareness for all those women who need fighting for. 

Some important facts about endometriosis:

• 1 in 10 women of reproductive age in the UK suffer from endometriosis.
• 10% of women world wide have endometriosis - that’s 176 million worldwide.
• The prevalence of endometriosis in women with infertility be as high as to 30–50%.
• Endometriosis is the second most common gynaecological condition in the UK.
• Endometriosis affects 1.5 million women, a similar number of women affected by diabetes.
• On average it takes 7.5 years from onset of symptoms to get a diagnosis.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.