Samantha Bowick

After battling painful periods since I was 13, I was diagnosed with endometriosis at 19 after having laparoscopic surgery. Since then, I’ve had five additional surgeries for endometriosis, including removal of my appendix, uterus, ovaries, cervix and gallbladder. The only treatment for endometriosis that has given me relief is laparoscopic surgery performed by an endometriosis specialist who uses excision to cut the disease. Since being diagnosed with endometriosis, I have been diagnosed with other chronic illnesses over the years. I was diagnosed with osteoporosis a year after my complete hysterectomy at 24. I’m sure osteoporosis was caused by the Lupron injection I tried as a treatment for endometriosis. It has been difficult for me to get the proper testing that I have needed for diagnosis because of my age.

I advocate because nobody should feel alone, nobody should go years before they are properly diagnosed, and nobody should have to get a hysterectomy because they feel there are no other options. The public isn’t aware of many chronic illnesses and it’s important that people know what to look out for in case they or their loved ones have a chronic illness.

I am a digital advocate and author of four books: “Living with Endometriosis”, “Living with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency”, “Living with Endometriosis Workbook and Daily Journal”, and “Living with Kidney Stones.” Learn more about me, reach out for conversation or read more about my books on my website!