Karina

Hi, I'm Karina (a.k.a. Kara). I'm volunteering with Endometriosis UK to establish a support group in Bangor. When I first looked for support, I found the closest group was Wrexham, so I decided to set one up closer to home for our community in North Wales. While I cannot provide medical advice, my goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where we can share our experiences and learn more about this condition together.

My experience with endometriosis began around 2019. I remember once being unable to walk properly due to the pain, and nearly passing out in the bathroom. Like so many of us, I naturally brushed this off as "just period pains"—silly me! It wasn’t until years later, when the pain became a regular, localised occurrence, that I sought help. After ultrasounds and an MRI, I was diagnosed with bilateral endometriomas (chocolate cysts).

I remember the strange conflict of being told "at least it’s not cancer," while simultaneously realising I had been diagnosed with a chronic health condition with almost no information provided on how to live with it. From long waits for specialists to traveling to England for surgery, I have experienced the "trials and tribulations" of the healthcare system first-hand.

I am now six months post-laparoscopy and, while the journey continues, I don't want anyone in our area to feel they have to navigate it alone. I look forward to meeting you and building this community together.