Hi, my name is Kallie King. I'm 22 years old and a newly qualified community nurse.

I’ve always faced challenges with my health, but in recent months, my symptoms have become unbearable — and I’m now reaching out in desperation.

Despite four hospital admissions in just six months, I’ve found myself repeatedly dismissed, as the NHS struggles under the pressure of a growing number of gynaecology patients in similar situations. The system is overwhelmed, and as a result, many women like me are being left in severe pain without the care we so desperately need.

In March, after a two-week hospital stay, I received a private MRI which confirmed diagnoses of both endometriosis and adenomyosis:

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain, fatigue, nausea, and potentially infertility.

Adenomyosis occurs when that same type of tissue grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, resulting in heavy bleeding and chronic pelvic pain.

There is currently no cure for endometriosis, but excision surgery can greatly improve symptoms and quality of life. I’m now on the NHS waiting list for this surgery — but I’ve been told the average wait time is over a year, and it may take even longer.

In the meantime, my condition has drastically impacted every part of my life. I’ve missed more work than I’ve been able to attend since qualifying as a nurse. My physical pain is constant and severe — often leaving me bedbound — and the toll on my mental health has been equally significant. I never imagined starting my long-awaited career this way: unable to care for others because I can’t get the care I need myself.

Since March, I’ve had four hospital admissions due to endometriosis flare-ups. Each time, I’ve been discharged with no long-term solution, often still in pain. To cope, I rely on strong painkillers such as Oramorph, Naproxen, and Tramadol, which only help mask the symptoms — not treat them.

Recently, my GP was honest with me: the NHS wait will likely be even longer than I’ve been told. She urged me, if possible, to seek private surgery. Unfortunately, because this is a pre-existing condition, insurance providers won’t cover it — meaning I would need to self-fund the entire procedure.

The cost for surgery at The Oaks Hospital in Colchester is approximately £7,101.

I understand that times are tough financially, and not everyone will be in a position to donate. But if you’re able to contribute anything — no matter how small — it would mean the world to me. And if you can’t donate, please consider sharing my story. The more people it reaches, the more chance I have of getting the help I need. I just want to get better. I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t in pain.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this,

Kallie❤️