Charlotte

Hi there, I'm Charlie and I'm the Support Group Leader for the Norfolk and Norwich branch of Endometriosis UK.

My endometriosis journey started in October 2022 at the age of 42, and came completely out of the blue for me.  After presenting to my GP with ovarian pain that had gotten progressively worse over the course of a year, I was sent for an ultrasound and an MRI.  These scans showed that my endometriosis was so severe that I had to have an emergency ureteric stent placed to protect my kidney which was failing to drain, as well as have a monthly hormonal injection to put me in a temporary menopause to reduce the pain.  I was put on the urgent gynaecology waiting list for surgery, and therein the plethora of hospital appointments began where I would be told I needed a partial hysterectomy (everything out except one ovary), a bowel resection, extensive endometriosis tissue removal and separation of organs.  There was also a possibility that I would need part of my ureter removed, and re-implanted into my bladder.

Needless to say, that was a lot of information to process in a very short space of time - especially as endometriosis had never been on my radar.  I honestly don't think I have ever felt so overwhelmed.

While I waited two years for my surgery, one of the things that got me through that turbulent time was the support of other endometriosis sufferers.  I promised myself that if I ever made it out the other side that I would give back to this community of support that had helped me so much, and would create a space where other Endo Warriors could find support and help them navigate their own endometriosis journeys.

So if you’re here, I’m really sorry that you (or perhaps someone you know) is battling this disease, but please know that you are not alone. Come and join our support network and connect with others who understand what you are going through.