Living with Endometriosis: Emma’s Story of Strength & Support
Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women, yet many struggle for years before receiving a diagnosis. It’s more than just a reproductive disorder—it impacts the entire body and can deeply affect quality of life. Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It is a chronic, often debilitating condition with no cure, yet many women endure years of medical gaslighting before receiving a diagnosis.
Emma is one of them. This is her story.
I first learned about endometriosis at 15 when my best friend was diagnosed. At the time, I didn’t realize my own painful periods, back pain, and other symptoms were anything more than “normal.” Like many women, I shrugged off my pain and assumed it was just something I had to endure. In today's world we are so conditioned to think pain associated with our cycle is normal. When I did see doctors, I was quickly offered birth control, but I knew that wasn’t the solution—both because it doesn’t treat the root cause and because of my Catholic faith. Years later, after worsening symptoms and failed attempts to manage them, I was finally diagnosed.
“From the time I first got my period at 13 I experienced horrible cramping, back pain, headaches, migraines, nausea, heavy bleeding and the list only grew the older I got. Looking back, I wish I could give that girl a hug and tell her she isn’t crazy, that her pain is real, and that she deserves answers.”
REACHING MY BREAKING POINT
By the time I was 20, I knew something had to change. I was engaged to the most wonderful man (my now husband), and my symptoms were worse than ever. The pain wasn’t just during my period anymore; it was constant. Cramping, pressure, random mid-cycle bleeding, daily headaches, and overwhelming fatigue. I was working full-time as a massage therapist, but the effort of pushing through the pain left me mentally and physically drained.
One night, my period pain became so unbearable that I collapsed onto my bathroom floor, alternating between throwing up and trying to find relief in the bathtub. I genuinely feared I wouldn’t make it through the night. That moment was my lowest point. I knew I couldn’t live like this.
FINDING REAL HELP
When my husband and I began our journey to start a family, I worried about how endometriosis would affect my fertility. Seeking answers, I found a doctor trained in NaProTechnology, a fertility-awareness-based approach to women’s health. Through the Creighton Model Fertility Care System (CrMS), I learned to track my cycle and gained insight into the hormonal imbalances often associated with endometriosis. Bloodwork confirmed I was severely progesterone deficient and estrogen dominant, both common with endometriosis.
My doctor referred me to Dr. Jeremy Kalamarides in Austin, Texas, who specializes in excision surgery for endometriosis. Unlike many doctors who rely on temporary symptom management, he took my concerns seriously and made preserving my fertility a priority. In January 2023, I underwent laparoscopic surgery, where lesions were found on my ovaries, bladder, uterosacral ligament, and abdominal wall. While recovery was more challenging than I expected, the surgery brought significant relief, cutting my pain days in half.
POST SURGERY & DISCOVERING PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY
What I wasn’t prepared for, however, was the impact of post-surgical scar tissue. Even after excision, I still experienced pelvic tightness, pain, and flares that made daily life difficult. That’s when I turned to pelvic floor therapy. Initially, I was hesitant—after everything my body had been through, I wasn’t sure I wanted to try another treatment. But with my husband’s encouragement, I gave it a chance, and it was truly life-changing. Pelvic floor therapy not only helped reduce my pain but also gave me tools to manage symptoms at home. It has become one of the most valuable parts of my healing journey, and now, it’s the first thing I recommend to other women struggling with endometriosis or pelvic pain.
“Endometriosis and chronic pain are incredibly complex, requiring a collaborative approach between providers, therapists, and the patient. Pelvic floor therapy plays a crucial role in helping patients like Emma find relief by addressing post-surgical scar tissue, improving pelvic mobility, and retraining the body’s natural movement patterns. Through our work together, Emma gained a deeper understanding of how her body functions and learned effective strategies to manage flares at home. By combining hands-on therapy with education and movement-based techniques, she experienced a noticeable reduction in pain and tension—allowing her to take an active role in her healing process.”
While endo is still part of my life, it doesn’t define me. It has tested my strength, challenged my faith, and brought moments of frustration—but it has also given me a voice to advocate for better women’s health and to fight for better care. I wouldn’t wish this illness on anyone, but I believe God has a reason for everything. I refuse to let Endo hold me back. No one should have to suffer in silence. There is help, and pelvic floor therapy is one of the many ways we can reclaim our health and well-being.
Rise Above Endo Fund: Helping Endo Warriors Access the Care They Deserve
One of the hardest realities of endometriosis is how many women suffer in silence — not just from pain but from the financial barriers threat prevent them from getting the care they desperately need.
That’s why we at South Texas Pelvic Health created the Rise Above Endo Fund—to help bridge this gap and provide financial assistance for those who need specialized pelvic health care. With the support of our community, we can ensure that more endo warriors get the treatment they deserve.
The Rise Above Endo Fund provides subsidized pelvic floor therapy for those with endometriosis facing financial hardship. Made possible through community donations, awareness events, and select service proceeds, this fund helps endo warriors access pain relief and improved mobility.
How You Can Help Other women like emma:
✨ Sponsor an Endo Warrior – Fund a session or full treatment plan.
✨ Donate – Donate with a memo of “Rise Above Endo Fund” or simply give at checkout when paying for a session.
✨ Book a Treatment That Gives Back – A portion of proceeds from red light therapy and dry needling supports the fund. Book HERE
✨ Attend Awareness Events – Proceeds from workshops and fundraisers help provide care.
✨ Spread the Word – Share this initiative to help more endo warriors get the support they deserve.
Want to Apply for Assistance?
If you are living with endometriosis and facing financial hardship, you can apply for support through our Rise Above Endo Fund. Apply HERE
💛Together, We Can Make a Difference💛
Every contribution, big or small, helps ensure that endo warriors don’t have to fight their battle alone. Whether through sponsorship, donation, or simply spreading awareness, you are part of the movement to bring better care and support to those who need it most.