This October, I'll be running a marathon to raise money for Endometriosis UK—a charity that provides vital support, raises awareness, and campaigns for better care for those living with endometriosis.

This challenge is deeply personal to me.

It took eight years for me to receive a diagnosis.

During that time, I was repeatedly misdiagnosed and prescribed up to 17 courses of antibiotics a year, while the real cause of my pain remained undiscovered. Like so many people living with endometriosis, I often felt dismissed and not believed. Living with chronic pain became my normal, despite knowing something wasn't right.

By October 2024, my health had deteriorated so much that I was either housebound or in A&E because the pain had become unbearable. It was one of the lowest points of my life. My dad flew over to look after me, and it was only with his support and advocacy that my symptoms were finally taken seriously.

In early 2025, I underwent invasive surgery that removed the endometriosis. While there is no cure for endometriosis, the surgery gave me my life back. I was incredibly fortunate to be able to access private treatment, allowing me to have surgery much sooner than many people are able to. I know that not everyone has that option, and countless people continue to wait years for answers, treatment, and relief.

My experience has shown me just how important charities like Endometriosis UK are. They provide trusted information and support to those navigating this disease, campaign for better awareness and healthcare, and work tirelessly to improve diagnosis times so that fewer people have to endure years of unnecessary suffering.

Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women and those assigned female at birth, yet it still takes far too long for many people to be diagnosed. No one should have to spend years fighting to be believed or living in debilitating pain before receiving the care they deserve.

I'm running this marathon not just as a personal challenge, but for everyone who is still waiting for answers, still living with pain, or still fighting to be believed. I hope that by raising money for Endometriosis UK, I can help the charity continue its incredible work supporting those affected, raising awareness, and campaigning for earlier diagnosis and better care.

If you're able to donate, no matter how big or small, you'll be helping to make a real difference. Thank you so much for supporting me and this cause—it means more than I can put into words.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for supporting both me and this incredible cause.