Endometriosis: My Long Journey

Hi, I'm Traci. Where do I begin Wow! I started hurting extremely bad and having horrible cycles that lasted for days and days when I was about 15 years old. I've always known something was really wrong. Endometriosis changes the person who you were but it makes you stronger than you ever thought possible.

My surgical journey

I remember going to my first surgery and it was to take my appendix out because they thought they were bursting but when they got in there my appendix wasn't and were fine but they went ahead and took them. This I believe was the first missed opportunity to diagnose me with Endometriosis. I went on to have multiple surgeries at this point I've had 9 laparoscope surgeries. I no longer have all my intestines, appendix, ovaries, or uterus. But each surgery just took one thing at a time when absolutely necessary.

TTC

I took Lupron for 2 years because I was told that it would kill off my Endometriosis and I would have a better chance of getting pregnant. Yes I was trying to have a child. I went through IVF, and Insemination but both attempts failed. Through the years my life was surgeries, organ loss, chronic pain, stabbing pains, lab rat, migraines, nausea, chronic fatigue, the most heartbreaking is Infertility! loads of symptoms. I ended up waking up after my last surgery being told that a hysterectomy was performed because my last ovary was flipped and tied up in my fallopian tube and my uterus was gone. I was broken down to say the least.

The call we were waiting for

It took time but my ex-husband and I decided to get on an adoption list. We were on that list for about 2 1/2 years when we got a call about we had a Little girl waiting on us. She was 16 days old and all mine. I'm grateful to God that yes I got to be a mommie however Endometriosis did not have the right to take choices away of having children myself as well.

My hopes for the future

My prayers know is to the younger generation of girls. I pray that they recognize the symptoms and get diagnosed earlier and that they understand that hysterectomy is not a Cure for Endometriosis in any way. One thing that I know is Endometriosis changed my life and took a lot away however it has shown me that I am an extremely strong woman! I'm so grateful for the Endometriosis sister's everywhere and support group because we are truly the ones that understand each other!! 🎗💛🎗