My experience over the past year highlights why systemic reform and patient protections remain so important.

Last July I was rushed by ambulance from Tralee to one of Ireland’s Supra Regional Endometriosis Clinics. Because my case was complex, I was advised to seek specialist care abroad.

Despite having health insurance, post-Brexit barriers meant the London clinic required £25,000 upfront. I launched a crowdfunding appeal simply to try access treatment.

Instead of collective support, I experienced public shaming, online abuse and even a boycott of my work for speaking openly about my health.

A consultation I attended in Romania was not trauma-informed and the examination retraumatised me as a survivor of gender-based violence.

After sharing my experience in a national radio interview, anonymous online posts and group chats continued to question my illness while private communications were shared publicly.

Recently I attended a consultation in London through ESAIS - the Endometriosis Surgical and Assessment Implementation Scheme, a pathway created through decades of advocacy by patients and campaigners.

While progress is being made, patients must be able to access specialist healthcare with dignity, safety and trauma-informed support.

No patient should have to crowdfund access to treatment.

And no patient should face harassment for speaking about their illness.

Thank you to everyone continuing to support this campaign for accountability and reform.