Endometriosis is a disorder in which the tissue similar to the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This results in pelvic pain and irregular menstrual cycle.

I started my period in year 4, and since then it's been so painful. I missed out on swimming class days in year 5 because of my period. 

I went to the gp for years when it got bad, they never investigated further. One day at the start of year 12 I was in so much pain and I had to go to A&E and they did a ultrasound and found a cyst had grown and was growing, due to endometriosis being left and gotten worse without intervention.

My story meant having to be in hospital for many overnight stays, being put on drugs that are so strong they lead to other complications. 

I had to have surgery for endometriosis after the cyst growing over 9cm inside of me. The surgery on my 18-year-old body wrecked it. 6 months on I still feel the effects of having the surgery.

Unfortunately, the thing with endometriosis is, it is CHRONIC and it grows back, and my first scan after the surgery came back with the fact another cyst had formed. 

My next appointment was 4 months from being told I had the cyst. So, I had to intervene myself, I put myself on the progesterone only pill, because I feel so helpless. 

I can't do anything to stop endometriosis, but I can only try to increase awareness and get the government to increase funding on research into this. Not only does endometriosis significantly reduce your fertility levels, but it is also mentally destroying. 

I am 18 and I'm worried for what the future has in store for me, will my boss accept that there may be days I just can't move because of the pain? will teachers, doctors, peers believe me? 

For your daughters, for your sisters, for your mother, for your grandma, for your friend for me, please sign this petition.