Morgan Stanley's 'Demystifying Coffee Morning’
Earlier last month, I had the privilege of being invited back to speak at Morgan Stanley's 'Demystifying Coffee Morning' event about endometriosis. The event was organised by Millie (a fellow endometriosis advocate) and it was truly uplifting to see such a big company taking steps to promote diversity, health education, and allyship in the workplace.
As someone who is passionate about raising awareness about endometriosis, it was an honour to be able to share my knowledge and experiences with a diverse group of people. I was impressed with the level of engagement and interest from the audience, who asked thoughtful questions and shared their own stories.
It's essential for workplaces to create safe and inclusive environments where employees feel comfortable discussing their health needs and seeking support. Events like these are a step in the right direction, and it's heartening to see companies like Morgan Stanley taking a proactive approach to promoting health education and allyship.
I'm grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Morgan Stanley and be a part of this meaningful event. It's through initiatives like this that we can continue to raise awareness about endometriosis and other health issues and create a more supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
Let's keep up the excellent work and continue to advocate for diversity, health education, and allyship in our workplaces and communities. Thank you again to Morgan Stanley and Millie for organising such a fantastic event!
Scottish Parliament Endo Awareness Month ‘23
Earlier this week, I had the honour of speaking again at The Scottish Parliament for Endometriosis Action Month about my lived experience with endometriosis and the need for more patient-centric care. It was an incredible opportunity to share my story and to join forces with passionate leaders, including Monica Lennon MSP, Prof. Anna Glasier OBE - Scotland's Women's Health Champion, Emma Cox CEO, Endometriosis UK, and Women's Health Minister Maree Todd
During the event, I also emphasised the importance of effective communication in managing patient care. The toll that a cancelled appointment or surgery can have on someone's mental and physical health, with limited communication, is shocking. It is imperative for the government and the NHS health boards to do better in this regard.
As someone who has lived with endometriosis for over 15 years, I understand the challenges that come with navigating the condition. When other conditions are thrown into the mix, it can become even more difficult. This is where volunteers play a crucial role in the endometriosis community, as they offer support and resources to others despite fighting their own battles. We, as volunteers, do this because making a difference in even one person's life by helping them feel less alone is a significant victory.
The event was inspiring, and I was thrilled to see so many familiar faces and advocates fighting for change. It's time for us to come together and raise awareness about endometriosis and the challenges that women face in accessing appropriate care.We need to continue to speak out about our experiences and work together to create a more patient-centric healthcare system. This event was a step in the right direction, but there is still so much work to be done. We need to keep pushing for change and advocating for better care and support for women with endometriosis.
I'm grateful for the opportunity to have spoken at The Scottish Parliament and for the chance to collaborate with so many passionate leaders in the fight against endometriosis. Let's continue to work together to create a world where women's health is prioritised, and patients' voices are heard. And let's never forget the vital role that volunteers play in this ongoing battle.
International Women’s Day at West College Scotland
I had the pleasure of attending West College Scotland's Health & Wellbeing Drop In session in celebration of International Women's Day 2023, and it was a fantastic event! The session was organised by the wonderful Victoria O'Donnell, and it included discussions about mental health, free period products provided by Hey Girls, and even a talk about endometriosis. It was a brilliant way to raise awareness and let students know that it's okay to talk about periods and mental health.
It was inspiring to see so many students engaged in the event, asking questions and participating in discussions. It's important to have events like this to break down the taboo surrounding periods and mental health. I am grateful to Victoria for inviting me to speak about endometriosis and to be a part of such a valuable initiative.
Overall, it was an excellent event, and I look forward to attending more in the future.
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If you'd like to have your workplace, college, or university learn more about menstrual wellbeing and women's health, please don't hesitate to get in touch. Raising awareness and breaking the taboo surrounding these topics is essential, and I would love to be a part of that conversation. Together, we can create a safe and inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable discussing their health concerns.
Navigating Endometriosis: Empowering Women with Information and Support
Endometriosis is a complex condition that affects millions of women and those assigned female at birth worldwide. It can cause a range of symptoms, including painful periods, pain during or after sex, pain when using the bathroom, heavy menstrual bleeding, and in some cases infertility. Unfortunately, endometriosis is often misdiagnosed or undiagnosed, leaving women to suffer in silence.
As someone who has navigated my way through endometriosis, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to manage the condition. But I also know that there is hope. By arming yourself with information and seeking out support, you can take control of your health and live a full and happy life.
Here are some tips for navigating endometriosis and empowering yourself with information and support:
Educate yourself: The more you know about endometriosis, the better equipped you'll be to manage your symptoms and advocate for your health. There are many resources available online, including reputable medical websites, patient forums, and private support groups ( to list a few) where you can connect with others who are going through similar experiences. To help get you start, I’ve listed the top 5 that helped me when getting started.
Find a healthcare provider who specialises in endometriosis: Endometriosis is a complex condition that requires specialised care. Look for a healthcare provider who has experience treating endometriosis and who takes the time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions. If you’re in the UK, the BSGE is a great place to start, and if you’re in the US, Nancy’s Nook has a list of specialists by state (but do remember to check if they take your insurance)
Build a support network: Living with endometriosis can be isolating, but you don't have to go through it alone. Connect with others who are going through similar experiences, whether it's through a local support group or an online community. Having a support network can provide you with the emotional support you need to manage the ups and downs of endometriosis. Below I’ve provided some great support groups here in Scotland, if you’re elsewhere in the UK or in the world, please feel free to reach out and I can see if there’s one local to you.
Practice self-care: Living with endometriosis can be physically and emotionally taxing. The most important thing to remember is that it’s okay to rest and it’s okay to do so without feeling guilty (which I struggle with personally) but having those rest days and listening to your body can really help. Make sure you're taking care of yourself by eating a balanced diet (it’s okay if all you can manage is comfort food during a flare), getting fresh air when possible, and engaging in activities that bring you joy.
Navigating endometriosis can be challenging, but by arming yourself with information and seeking out support, you can start to feel more in control of your health both physically and mentally. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you along the way. Let's empower each other to navigate endometriosis with confidence and strength.
Disclaimer: Please note, I am not a medical professional. All written content is based on my own personal experience and research. The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns about your health, please consult with your healthcare provider or contact your local GP, NHS 24, or 999.