On Saturday 24th January, I'll be taking part in the Winter Walk for Endo. After a 3 year back and forth with more doctors and tests than I can count, I was finally diagnosed with endometriosis via surgery last April. This is not an usual story, and had there been more awareness it's likely I would have received a diagnosis and treatment many years prior to this point.

Endometriosis is a chronic pain condition that affects 1 in 10 women and those assigned female at birth. Recurring pain, discomfort, constant fatigue and brain fog are just some of the symptoms I and many others experience every day. The impact spans every aspect of my daily life - from what food or drinks I can or can't have, to whether I'm able to make a social event or exercise in a way I could before. The lack of awareness and understanding of the condition, even within the medical sector, can make it incredibly isolating. And those suffering are often faced with making challenging and difficult decisions during diagnosis, treatment and management of endometriosis.

Unfortunately this walk will be tough for me, as I've gone from someone who was in the gym every day, to finding it difficult on my worst days to get up and down the stairs without tiring. Being outside and hiking has always been a favourite pastime of mine and so I'm determined to challenge myself to help raise money for a charity so close to my heart. Endometriosis UK exists to offer support and reliable information, as well as fight and campaign for change and better treatment options. I'd be super grateful for any donations of support, no matter how small!