TW: Graphic Images
For the last decade, I’ve lived with advanced endometriosis. Endometriosis is chronic disease that has shaped my body, mind and life in every way. Even though I was diagnosed at 18 it took 3 surgeries & several years of suffering before I finally got a proper stage 4 diagnosis with adenomyosis. Endo has meant endless pain, uncertainty, 5 surgeries, medications, second degree burns from heating pads, organ fusion, the list goes on. It’s a relentless, full body systemic nightmare of a condition that’s often dismissed. On average it takes 7–10 years for diagnosis. This is not acceptable. The physical pain is only part of the story. Endo steals time, opportunities & peace of mind. Yet I’ve learned the importance of advocacy, patience, resilience & community. Strength isn’t the absence of suffering, it’s fighting even when every part of you aches. There are victories, small and profound. A day without pain, a supportive doctor who actually listens, or simply just surviving another surgery. These moments remind me that I am more than this disease. I know that I am capable of enduring, of healing in small ways & of living fully despite chronic pain. I am choosing to share my story because endometriosis is often invisible, yet it is real and life altering. I want others who suffer in silence to know they are not alone. I want to advocate for better understanding, more awareness, more research, and compassionate care for those with this condition. My journey has been long, painful & exhausting, but I remain determined to reclaim my life one day at a time. I am so grateful for the opportunity to receive the level of care I’ve received from @drchu_endodoc @seckinmd & their entire team at Seckin Endometriosis Center & Lenox Hill. Never in my life have l received such kindness, support, compassion and overall adequate care. While everyone talks about the relief surgery might bring, very few people talk about the complications and the reality of recovery. For me, it hasn’t been simple. I ended up with an obstruction, an NG tube down my nose, severe pain that wasn’t managed properly, incision irritation, and ongoing gastro issues that have been overwhelming. It’s scary, exhausting, and isolating when your body isn’t healing the way you hoped. Endometriosis isn’t just “bad periods.” It’s a whole body disease that can affect your organs, digestion, daily functioning, and mental health. Surgery is not a cure. There is no cure. It is one step in a lifelong journey of management. I am grateful for my parents both here and in spirit that have made this possible for me. To my family, closest friends & employers that have showed me grace, been more than patient, supportive & understanding while I navigate this and didn’t always feel like I deserved it. I feel so blessed and grateful, looking forward to a brand new life . 💛
