Endo Voices

So, in researching for an awareness project I'm doing, I asked a couple of the ladies in one of my Endo support groups a question. I said, "If you could tell anyone anything about endo, or could somehow spread a piece of awareness or let everyone know something, what would you say?" I thought I'd post some of the responses here so you guys could hear what some other women have to say about living with the disease. These answers are totally anonymous, but they each come from a real live person struggling with balancing Endometriosis and functioning in their day to day lives.

"Endo isn't cancer - but it stops us dead in our tracks regardless. Just because you can't see it, doesn't mean it's not there and our smiles are just ways to get through the day."

"...stepping out of the ring and learning to be endo strong instead (I used to kickbox) or that the only silver lining to endo is the bond between other endo warriors."

"Having a chronic illness isn't seen from the eyes of others and many times it goes unnoticed. It doesn't mean it isn't there, doesn't exist, or I'm faking it. Listen, support, and learn from others. You never know what they are dealing with."

"Endometriosis is like having a war fought inside of me that no-one believes or sees, but is kicking my ass...it has changed my life in everyday and affects every aspect from my kids and husband, to my self esteem, to my sex life, and in between. It is extremely painful and most doctors know less than the patients about it, and especially how to treat it."

"My Endometriosis is proof that God thinks I'm invincible, seeing as he only gives us what we can handle."

"Endometriosis is to me, like fighting a never-ending WAR with my own body. And never-ending battles with physicians, friends, family, significant others, etc.. who do not understand. No, you cannot see the cause of my pain, but it exists and it is beyond what any person should have to endure."

"Endometriosis is a silent destroyer of lives, for all who are affected by it. We are strong because we have to be. When you see us smile, just remember... we have to paste it on our face to keep others from discriminating upon our disability - because it has not been officially declared one due to our silence and the ignorance of others."

"Endo is an incurable disease that prevents most women to conceive. It's a strange disease. Unknown and causes stress and infertility, like me. I wish a miracle to happen to me one day."

"Debilitating!"

"Endo is a life long challenge I am strong enough to live with every morning when I wake up."

"I have learned to change my mind in regards to the (few) ups and (many) downs that I am dealt. Though there aren't many ups, I focus hard on them and stay positive - most of the time. I can't control my disease. But I can control my attitude towards it!"