As Endometriosis UK launches its Awareness Week for 3rd – 9th March 2014, calling on women to know that: ’It’s ok to talk. Period.’ DiaryDoll creators, Carol Smillie and Annabel Croft, a former sufferer, are proud to support this campaign.
The innovative new product which has recently launched in selected John Lewis stores has proved ‘life-changing’ for women who suffer with period problems. With around 1.5million women suffering with endometriosis in the UK, many of whom struggle with heavy or irregular periods, this product is a real comfort.
Created by tennis star Annabel Croft and TV presenter Carol Smillie, Diarydolls are lightweight, breathable, super-soft and contain a secret waterproof panel to protect clothing and bedding against any embarrassing leaks, perfect for period, pelvic floor, or even post maternity problems.
DiaryDoll will be supporting Endometriosis UK’s Pink Pants events throughout the year as the charity aims to raise awareness and funds for its work supporting thousands of women with endometriosis and their families. Campaigners will be donning their walking shoes on 13th March 2014 when Endometriosis UK joins the global campaign, Million Woman March for Endometriosis, by holding an awareness walk around Kensington Gardens in London with DiaryDoll supporting this inspiring event.
Carol Smillie says:
"Being a woman is hard enough, without having to deal with the painful and debilitating symptoms of endometriosis. As a former sufferer, Annabel knows only too well how hard that can be, and with our company DiaryDoll, we're delighted to support Endometriosis Awareness Week to help women live life to the full, and achieve their full potential."
Helen North, Chief Executive of Endometriosis UK, says:
“Heavy or irregular periods are a common symptom for women with endometriosis and can have a devastating effect on women’s lives. DiaryDolls offer women a sense of security when going through a difficult time.
“Over 50% of women with endometriosis report that their symptoms started during their teenage years. These lovely pants can be worn by everyone without feeling embarrassed including young girls. With over 1.5million women in the UK suffering with endometriosis it’s a great boost to have this partnership to support our campaigning and fundraising efforts.”
Activities to raise awareness about endometriosis are taking place through Endometriosis Awareness Week 3rd-9th March and continue the following week with an event in the Scottish Parliament on Wed 12th March – Endometriosis: the hidden threat to women’s health.
For full information on all the activities and more about Endometriosis, visit www.endometriosis-uk.org. For more information on DiaryDoll at www.diarydoll.com.
For more information please contact:
Tracee Cossey. Volunteer Press Officer: tracee.cossey@ntlworld.com 07954 178960
Laura Morgan, Communications Officer: communications@endometriosis-uk.org 020 7222 2781.
Interviews:
Endometriosis UK is able to put forward patients and spokespeople for face-to-face or telephone/radio interview.
Carol Smillie has some limited availability for interviews. To discuss this, please contact either Tracee or Laura.
Notes to editors
- Endometriosis is a gynaecological condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other areas of the body, most commonly in the pelvic region. This tissue responds to hormones in the same way as the lining of the womb but, with no outlet, it can cause inflammation, scarring and adhesions, leading to severe pain and many other symptoms.
- An estimated 1 in 10 women in the UK (1.5 million in the UK) suffer from endometriosis, with symptoms that include severe pain, heavy bleeding, pain during sex and the risk of becoming infertile. It can affect all women and girls of a childbearing age, regardless of race or ethnicity. Approximately 176 million women and girls suffer from endometriosis worldwide.
- There is currently no cure. Treatments including drugs, surgery and complementary therapies can be used to help manage the pain, reduce the severity of symptoms and improve the quality of life for a woman living with the condition.
- Endometriosis costs the UK approximately £8.2bn per annum in lost working time and healthcare costs. Source: ‘The burden of endometriosis: costs and quality of life of women with endometriosis and treated in referral centres’, Simoens et al, 2012.
- Endometriosis UK is the leading national charity dedicated to providing support and information for women who have this condition. We work to increase understanding of endometriosis through campaigning, awareness-raising initiatives and research. We offer a wide range of advice and support, including a helpline, information leaflets and local support groups. These services are run by volunteers, all of whom have been affected by the condition.
