I am running for FTWW because over the past few years at Swansea University it has become very apparent how many women in my life and those around me suffer with endometriosis, whereas perviously I was so oblivious to it. It shocks me how many women are silent sufferers of this debilitating condition which is a lot more common then I ever realised. I was never taught about it in biology lessons in school and all I would ever hear is girls just having ' bad period pains' and that it was just a given.
At university I met one of my best friends Rosie (now 22 years old,) I have only known her for the past three years and only seen a small portion of a very long journey of battling with endo. However, before I met her from the age of about 13 years old she had been battling with undiagnosed endo. Only few months ago was she finally was able to get a diagnosis, stage 4 endometriosis (one of the most severe forms) after nearly 10 years of suffering with this unexplainable pain and being fobbed off by doctors. I am now aware that this is sadly a common story for many women in the UK. It breaks my heart how little knowledge, research and coverage there is on this condition.
I am not too sure what else to do but to come alongside these amazingly strong women, like Rosie, and support and love them. And also help practically, like this amazing charity does, supporting women with endo and striving to educate more people in schools about women's health and also helping to contribute to research !
Any donations big or small would be much appreciated. Thank you xx