That being said - I feel amazing! I've started running again. Today I celebrated my hysterectoversary by beating my old record and running my fastest mile to date! (I also credit a friend who suggested I get new shoes that wouldn't make me want to cry after half a mile in.)
I'm so thankful to my friends and family for listening to all my (sometimes graphic) bitching and moaning. My biggest thanks go to my husband, who was and has been so unbelievably supportive and understanding, and believe me, there were times where he certainly could have been irritated with me. There were many times I was irritated with me.
There may be times in the future where more excision surgeries are needed. 20%-30% of women with endometriosis need another excision surgery within 5 years. I'm living in the now, knowing that's a possibility and accepting it as gracefully as I can.
I learned I had big egg-sized cysts on my ovaries March 18, 2017 after running a 5k. I had them removed April 2017, which was the first time I even learned wtf endometriosis was. Since my diagnosis, I've read hundreds of stories from women suffering. All I can think of is how lucky I am.
Fittingly enough, March is endometriosis awareness month. There's not enough research on this disease that affects one in ten women worldwide. 10% of the female population has this, yet it's this big mystery to most of us unless or until we're diagnosed with it.
Infertility, chronic pain, bloating, painful bowel movements, painful intercourse, fatigue, cramping, anemia, heavy periods and body aches. Consider learning more about it. Consider donating to find a cure. Consider how this disease would affect your life or the life of a woman you love.
#1in10
