Jasmine shares her journey to becoming an Endometriosis UK Support Group leader, why she decided to volunteer and her advice for those thinking of attending a support group for the first time.
What inspired you to set up a new support group in Lancashire?
I decided to set up the Lancashire support group because I really wanted to build a community that can help bridge the gap between mental health support and endometriosis. It’s such an isolating condition which has taken me to my darkest places so I wanted to create something that I really needed at one time. I want it to be a place where people can come to for comfort, support and unconditional empathy.
Can you tell us why you wanted to become an Endometriosis UK volunteer?
Joining Endometriosis UK felt like such an easy choice for me. I felt I had so much care and support to give to people but I didn’t know how best to navigate that. When I found the organisation I knew immediately I wanted to be a part of it, I’d found my community. Being involved in the wonderful things Endometriosis UK do is such a privilege and it gives me so much joy.
What impact has endometriosis had on your life?
Throughout most of my life, it feels like I have either been on a waiting list or being made to feel like I’m overreacting. I first went to the doctors with endometriosis symptoms when I was 12 years old, in 2013. I got diagnosed with endometriosis in March 2023, ten years later. During my search for answers, I have felt gas-lit, belittled and not believed, mostly by doctors who treated me as a case number, not as a human being. Throughout the past ten years, my physical and mental health have been close to unsurvivable. Endometriosis isn’t just painful periods, for me it has resulted in a laparoscopy, stomach ulcer, large internal bleed, rupturing cysts, multiple A&E visits, anaemia, iron infusions, hundreds of doctors appointments, months off university and work, and a constant battle to learn how to live with the pain.
What advice would you give to someone who may be attending an Endometriosis UK support group for the first time?
I know it’s incredibly difficult to trust people with your pain. You’ve spent so long keeping it in that it hurts to even think about it. But there is a community out there ready to make that pain a little less heavy and a little less dark. We want to show you that you are not alone, we understand what you’re going through and we want to be there for you. So be brave, take a few breaths and reach out. You never know what is on the other side of the darkness.
Where can people find out more info on the group?
To find out more about the Lancashire Support Group, please visit our page on the Endometriosis UK website, join our group on Facebook ‘Endometriosis UK - Lancashire’ or send us an email at lancashiregroup@endometriosis-uk.org
Thank you Jasmine for your support. The first group meeting for the Lancashire Group will take place on Wednesday 20th November. Please click here for more information.
