Overview
Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women and those assigned female at birth, yet it remains widely misunderstood, often resulting in years of misdiagnosis and inadequate care. This chronic condition causes debilitating pain and fatigue, significantly impacting various life aspects, from work to relationships. Founded in Hull by Katy, who experienced over 20 years without a diagnosis, Endo Buddies aims to ensure no one feels isolated in their struggle, offering vital support and advocacy for those living with endometriosis.
Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women and those assigned female at birth, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and overlooked conditions, often leading to years of misdiagnosis and inadequate care.
This chronic inflammatory disease, where tissue similar to the womb lining grows outside the uterus, causes debilitating pain, fatigue, and infertility, profoundly affecting every aspect of life from work to relationships. Despite its prevalence, many patients wait over a decade for a diagnosis, only to face long waits for surgery and minimal follow-up care, leaving them feeling abandoned.
Endo Buddies’ 2023 survey revealed that 97% of respondents faced negative mental health impacts, with many considering drastic measures due to the severity of their symptoms. This highlights the urgent need for comprehensive support.
Katy, the founder of Endo Buddies, knows this struggle firsthand. After enduring over 20 years without a diagnosis, she created the charity to ensure no one with endometriosis feels isolated or unheard. Her personal experience fuels her passion for making a difference.
Endo Buddies offers a range of services to support people living with endometriosis. Their flagship project, the Endometriosis Surgery Care Package, has provided comfort and recovery essentials to around 800 patients so far. These kits include practical items and information to aid post-surgery recovery.
Beyond care packages, the charity partners with Shout to offer 24/7 mental health support via text, educates employers on supporting staff with endometriosis, and advocates for better healthcare provision through government lobbying.
The £2,000 grant from the John Good Group will enable Endo Buddies to expand its care package project by partnering with more hospitals across the UK. They also plan to enhance the care packages with booklets on managing endometriosis, emotional wellbeing tips, and links to specialist support groups. Additionally, the funding will cover postage and distribution. It is estimated that this grant will allow the charity to reach 500 to 1000 more patients nationally, providing vital support to more people during their recovery journey.
Being shortlisted is incredible. We are a small, high impact charity open to all voluntary sector leaders across South Yorkshire. Many of the charities we support are small or medium sized organisations, the smallest being a food bank and community larder operating from the founder’s own house.
Support for us means support for a wide range of diverse charities from across the region, resulting in a significant impact for a large number of communities and service users.
Martin Singer
