Raising awareness for condition

Jody Stewart and husband Simon completed a charity walk across London in pink pants

The National Centre for Craft and Design in Sleaford will be the venue on Sunday for a social meeting by Endometriosis UK Support Group, led by Jody Stewart when visitors are invited to find out more about endometriosis, from 12noon onwards.

Whether you have been recently diagnosed or have questions, everyone is welcome, but let Jody know in advance to calculate numbers.

Jody said: “I have endometriosis myself, and was first diagnosed 11 years ago.

“It is totally shocking that it is as common as diabetes in women, but only 20 per cent of people know about it,” she explained.

Endometriosis is a condition where cells in the lining of the womb are found elsewhere in the body which causes painful and heavy periods.

One and a half million women are living with the condition - one in ten women of reproductive age.

Jody completed training in April to be a Support Group Leader for Lincolnshire.

She said: “Lincolnshire is a big county and I know transport links are not great, so I am travelling out to other towns to ensure ladies get the opportunity to attend.”

Fundraising events are organised regulary for the charity, to promote awareness and raise funds for Endometriosis UK.

Last year, Jody and her husband Simon completed the Pink Pants X London Challenge and raised £400 for the charity.

“Raising awareness on something that impacts so many people is a no brainer,” said Jody.

September is Endometriosis UK Mad Pants Tea Party month, where fundraisers host tea parties across the country, invite guests, and ask for donations. Register your tea party at www.endometriosis-uk.org.

You will then receive your fundraising pack, and the pink pants which you can wear with pride.

Jody runs Endometriosis UK Support Group monthly meetings in Lincoln at the Tesco Community Room from 7pm to 9pm.

To find out when the next Lincoln Endometriosis UK Support Group meeting takes place, call Jody on 07511 487275 or email: [email protected].

Alternatively, you can search Lincoln Endometriosis UK Support Group on Facebook and join the group which now has 80 Facebook members.

For further advice and support regarding endometriosis visit: www.endometriosis-uk.org.