3 peaks challenge for endometriosis

Hi, my name is Rowan and me and a group of friends are completing the 24-hour national 3 peaks challenge in May 2023 fundraising money for Endometriosis UK. I have recently got diagnosed and have had treatment for Endometriosis. Although I am hopefully on the road to recovery, it hasn't always been this straight forward.

I began suffering when I was 15 years old; it has taken me 6 years to get to the stage of diagnosis. These 6 years have consisted of constant pain which fluctuates from manageable to unbearable, constant fatigue feeling as though you haven't slept in days. The illness has mental effects too from being ok one day to the next your whole world is coming down on itself and feeling as though you cannot carry on anymore.

I felt so alone for all those years, feeling as though no one understood. Endless hospital appointments being told nothing was wrong and just to take painkillers yet I could hardly walk or do daily tasks. Living with endometriosis has an impact on everything from working, socialising, relationships, and it takes its toll.

Unfortunately, endometriosis has minimal awareness meaning limited research into how to manage and treat this incurable illness. Endometriosis is just as common as diabetes. This has always made me feel strongly about making people more aware of those suffering and hopefully changing the future of endometriosis research.

Having opportunities to be in the outdoors and the days when I felt strong enough to go on hikes has massively helped my mindset and mental health through everything. Completing the 3 peaks challenge is such a significant achievement for me whilst raising money for a charity close to my heart.

Anything anyone can give towards this charity would be greatly appreciated, and hopefully we can be the change towards the research so desperately needed.