Endometriosis is a chronic disease that affects 1 in 10 women, yet it often takes an average of nine years to receive a diagnosis. This delay profoundly impacts many aspects of life, leaving countless women unable to perform basic daily tasks without enduring severe pain and exhaustion. Tragically, for some, this late diagnosis results in infertility. Currently, there is no cure or effective treatment for endometriosis, and the only reliable method of diagnosis is laparoscopic surgery. Despite its prevalence - with endometriosis being as common as diabetes - endometriosis receives significantly less funding and research support, leaving many women suffering in silence and struggling for years before their symptoms are acknowledged by healthcare professionals.

In May 2026, after enduring symptoms since the age of 16 and facing repeated dismissal by doctors, I was finally diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis - after years of it being mentioned, but never actually acted upon due to lack of education and being a younger patient. The severity of my condition was revealed during surgery, with my diagnosis showing my bladder, bowel, pelvis, and ovaries were all adhered together; large masses were implanted either side of my lower spine; and extensive cysts surrounded my womb and ovaries. Fortunately, my endometriosis was removed before irreversible damage to my fertility occurred - but had I waited even one more year, I would’ve been left infertile for the rest of my life.

Living with suspected but undiagnosed endometriosis meant years of uncertainty marked by inconclusive tests and MRI scans. The relentless pain forced me to withdraw from activities I loved like netball and dance, caused me to miss university lectures and workdays, and led to social isolation as I often found myself bedbound. Even simple routines such as going to the gym or eating three meals a day became unattainable at times. Beyond the physical toll, there is a strong connection between endometriosis and mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders - struggles I have faced significantly throughout my whole adult life. Alongside these other issues, my biggest struggle was the fatigue that came with it, with up to 90% of women who suffer from endometriosis suffering from extreme and excessive tiredness, lack of energy and difficulty completing day to day activities without exhaustion. For as long as I can remember I have not been able to get through a day without needing to nap or struggling to get up in the mornings. I have suffered for years, without ever really knowing why I was feeling the way I was, and always blaming myself.

Since my surgery provided answers at last, my perspective on life has transformed completely. As I heal from this procedure, I am hoping that I can pursue and achieve goals that have for so long felt impossible due to this invisible illness. Having people define your abilities and worth, and compare you to them based on a disease that you have no control over is something that millions of endometriosis suffers including myself experience - a stigma that can only be challenged through education and increased funding.

Endometriosis can feel incredibly isolating because so few people understand it fully. That’s why this July I will be participating in the "Walk for Endo 2026" challenge - a walk where each day involves completing 9,000 steps to symbolise the nine-year average delay in diagnosis. This event will take place on 1 July 2026 across communities united in raising awareness.

Through this walk, I aim not only to raise vital funds for Endometriosis UK but also to shine a light on this misunderstood condition so no woman has to suffer alone or unheard any longer. If you are able to donate anything towards advancing research efforts or increasing awareness about endometriosis diagnosis and treatment options, it would be hugely appreciated.