For over 20 years I have experienced various endometriosis symptoms, but it wasn’t until two years ago that I received my diagnosis after having a laparoscopic procedure to remove a cyst. This was the beginning of hope in my discouraging journey of self-advocacy to find healing. In my twenties my symptoms worsened and I sensed that something wasn’t quite right, but when I told my doctor (at that time) about it, she said my symptoms were normal and encouraged more medicine to help with the pain. I was discouraged, but continued pushing through because I wasn’t sure where else to turn. A few years later I asked my friend to take me to the emergency room because I had been having such immense pain and my body was so tense that I felt something was really wrong. We made it halfway to the hospital when I told her she could turn around because although I was still suffering, the intensity had lessened and I didn’t want to be seen as “dramatic.”

In 2024 I decided to speak up again and tell my new primary care doctor about the challenges I was facing. I was afraid because my concerns had been dismissed before, but right away, she sympathized with me and ordered an ultrasound so we could start to figure out what was going on with my body. Sure enough, a cyst and fibroids showed up on my ultrasound and I had the option to do nothing or have the minimally invasive surgery to remove the cyst. Fortunately, during the procedure the doctor found the disease and gave me the endometriosis diagnosis. I felt such relief because I finally knew the cause of my pain! Unfortunately, they used ablation (burning the visible portion of the disease), not excision (removing the disease), to “take care of” the endometriosis. This felt like two steps forward and one step backwards. Since then I have learned more about this disease and made shifts in my lifestyle to support my digestion, nervous system, and reduce inflammation in my body.

I recently met with an endometriosis excision surgeon in a nearby state, showing her my imaging from my 2024 procedure and asking about excision surgery. The doctor eased my fears and validated my experiences. She also confirmed my suspicion that excision surgery is the next right step for me. This will change my life in more ways than I can even imagine.

Throughout my journey I have discovered that I am not alone. There are advocates on social media raising awareness about this disease and organizations like Endometriosis Excision for All who are providing support, community and resources. I hope my story is an encouragement to keep going. Speaking up for ourselves can be difficult, especially when we are ignored, but we must continue down the path because we are worth it.

Would you consider being part of my story and healing journey?

With gratitude and love,

Brittany