On the 13th July 2025 I will be taking part in Saucony London 10k along with my British Airways Endometriosis Champions to raise money for Endometriosis UK.
Didn’t you raise money last year for endometriosis?
Yes, last year I took on the challenge of running the Manchester marathon for Endometriosis UK. Not only did I successfully raise money for the charity, but spread a great deal of awareness of the condition.
So many of you have come forward to share your experience with endometriosis and some of you have now started the process of getting your diagnosis, but there is still so much work left to do!
What has Endometriosis UK achieved between the last time I was fundraising?
Endometriosis UK have focused on;
Raising awareness of endometriosis
- endometriosis Action Month in March
- Education to both the public and medical professionals
Advocating for better workplace support for women with the condition;
- Employment Rights Bill:
Endometriosis UK advocated for changes to the Employment Rights Bill to ensure that those with endometriosis have access to the support they need in the workplace. - Endometriosis Friendly Employer Scheme:
They continued to work with employers to improve workplace support for women with endometriosis through their Endometriosis Friendly Employer Scheme.
In 2024, British Airways became the first Airlines to be recognised as an Endometriosis friendly airline! - Workplace Support:
Endometriosis UK compiled resources for employers to support menstrual health in the workplace, including a guide on what employers can do to make their workplace more endometriosis friendly, according to hormonehealth.co.uk
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a whole body disease affecting 1-10 women. This is where the cells similar to the ones found in the lining of the womb (uterus) are found elsewhere in the body.
These cells react to the menstrual cycle each month and also bleed, however, there is no way for this blood to leave the body causing inflammation, pain and formation of scar tissue.
What are the symptoms of Endometriosis?
Symptoms vary from person to person, some may have severe and debilitating symptoms, others may have no symptoms at all. Symptoms are not always related to the location, amount or the type of endometriosis.
Common symptoms include:
- Pelvic pain
- Painful periods that interfere with everyday life
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Pain during or after sex
- Painful bowel movements/when having a poo
- Pain when urinating/peeing
- Difficulty getting pregnant – up to 70% of those with endometriosis will be able to get pregnant naturally
- Fatigue, with one or more of the above symptoms
How is it diagnosed?
Endometriosis is considered one of the most 20 painful medical conditions in the world (stated by NHS) yet the average time to get diagnosed is 8 years.It can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms can vary and many other conditions can cause similar symptoms often leaving miss diagnosis. The only true way for a diagnosis is through laparoscopic surgery.
Can you cure endometriosis?
Unfortunately, there’s currently no cure for endometriosis, but there are treatments that can help ease the symptoms.
Why Endometriosis UK?
The reason why I’ve chosen Endometriosis UK is not only because they have helped me, but they are also the leading charity for all those affected by endometriosis, determined to ensure that everyone gets prompt diagnosis and the best treatment and support. They work to breakdown barriers to access information, treatment, support or however endometriosis impacts on lives.
The charities mission is to aid into a world where endometriosis is recognised and understood and where the disease does not limit people’s lives.
My story
It had taken me 11 years of constant dismissal of my symptoms, being told all the pain and suffering I was experiencing was normal, cry for attention or I was exaggerating. It took one doctor to really listen to my symptoms and agree to put me on the long waiting list which allowed me to finally get my diagnosis. The moment they confirmed that they did in-fact find endometriosis, all the emotions that filled me knowing I wasn’t crazy, weak or lazy,
I have endometriosis! I am now in the process of waiting for my second surgery.
Thank you!
If you have gotten this far, I thank you so much for taking the time to read this and if you have been so kind to donate even just the smallest amount I thank you even more.
All facts and figures have been sourced from Endometriosis UK and the NHS website.