Help Erika raise money

I AM AN ENDO-WARRIOR!

Why am I participating?
Endometriosis is a disease that has significantly impacted every single aspect of my life. I was diagnosed at the age of 17 - I am one of the "lucky" ones. With your help, we will be able to increase awareness, initiate more educational programming, further build our support network and reduce current barriers to diagnosis.

What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when the normal lining of the uterus starts to grow outside the uterine wall. It may spread to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, bowel or bladder, or anywhere inside the abdominal cavity.  It is a chronic disease associated with severe, life-impacting pain during periods, sexual intercourse, bowel movements and/or urination, chronic pelvic pain, abdominal bloating, nausea, fatigue, and sometimes depression, anxiety, and infertility.

Barriers to diagnosis
This condition affects roughly 10% (190 million) of all people who menstruate and yet it takes an average of 4-11 years to be diagnosed correctly. Misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis, and failure to diagnose endometriosis have detrimental consequences, particularly on patients. Without a timely and accurate diagnosis, patients continue to experience persistent painful symptoms of the disease and their quality of life is proportionally impacted by this burden.

Cure/Treatment Options
Currently, there is no known cure for endometriosis, and treatment is usually aimed at controlling symptoms. There is a need for more research and awareness raising around the world to ensure effective prevention, early diagnosis, and improved management of the disease.

What can YOU do?... DONATE and watch me run/walk!
I'm not much of an athlete but for this I will get my butt off the couch and dust off the old sneakers. I'll be documenting my progress on Instagram so make sure to follow me @RikaShae to see my stories and learn more about Endometriosis!

Want to know more about what living with Endo is like?
Ask me! or read 'Vagina Problems: Endometriosis, Painful Sex, and Other Taboo Topics' by Lara Parker for an unapologetically honest account of life with this disease.