Hannah

As a volunteer for Endometriosis UK, I bring a deeply personal understanding of the struggles that come with this condition. My journey began at the age of 13 when I first experienced symptoms coinciding with the onset of my menstrual cycles. It wasn't until July 2020, after enduring more than a decade of pain, that I received a formal diagnosis through laparoscopy ablation surgery.

The relief was palpable, but my journey didn't end there. In November 2021, I underwent a second operation, this time opting for excision surgery via laparoscopy. The difference was profound – it not only alleviated my symptoms but also empowered me with a newfound sense of control over my health. It was after my second surgery that I made the decision to apply to be a volunteer with Endometriosis UK and set up the Gloucestershire Support Group. Our first support group meeting was in May 2022.

Driven by my own experiences, I am dedicated to using my voice to help others navigate their own battles with endometriosis. My mission extends beyond personal advocacy; I am committed to driving change in diagnosis times, ensuring that no one suffers in silence for as long as I did.

Charlotte

Since the age of 14 I was experiencing the common symptoms of Endometriosis with heavy painful periods that seemed to last forever! I had surgery at 14 to remove my appendix and to unstick my ovary which seemed to do the trick alongside taking 2 contraceptive pills daily. Then when I was 28 when my symptoms returned and I had further surgery to unstick my ovary again from my bowel. At 30 and after multiple hospital visits and stays with no-one knowing the reason for this pain that kept returning, I was finally diagnosed with Endometriosis. I had the Endometriosis excised from my bowel, right ovary and abdominal wall which again worked wonders for a little while. At 32 though I had to have my 4th and most recent surgery in June 2022 where the endometriosis was excised again from around my bladder this time too. Now I'm on monitored treatment and regular hormonal medication, I am finally pain free and back to loving life! So I want to use my new found energy to spread awareness now and help others, like the support group helped me during my journey. Having people around you who listen and truly understand, is so helpful!