Christiana Hansen, a 49-year-old from Chatham, has launched a campaign through her health awareness organization HEDUCA to establish a wellbeing hub in Medway focused on women’s and girls’ reproductive health issues. Hansen was diagnosed with endometriosis in 2023, five years after initially experiencing symptoms. She manages her condition with medication taken two to four times daily at the highest dose and describes the pain as severe stabbing sensations that significantly impact her emotional wellbeing.
Endometriosis affects one in 10 women and occurs when cells similar to those lining the womb grow in other parts of the body, potentially affecting organs such as the bladder and bowel. Hansen reported feeling dismissed during early medical consultations, with healthcare providers characterizing her symptoms as normal or simply “a woman issue.” She emphasizes that the level of pain she experiences is not typical and advocates for greater awareness among women and girls experiencing similar symptoms.
Jessica Lewis, 25, from Broadstairs, was diagnosed with endometriosis two years ago following surgery in 2024, though she experienced symptoms beginning at age 14. According to her NHS notes, Lewis visited her doctor 22 times before receiving her diagnosis. She describes the condition as severely impacting her daily life and limiting activities she previously enjoyed.
Both women are calling for increased NHS funding for endometriosis diagnosis and treatment, along with improved professional training for medical staff. Hansen’s proposed wellbeing hub would include a safe space for sharing experiences and fitness facilities. Local MP Tristan Osborne supports the initiative and indicated plans to work with Medway and Tonbridge and Malling councils on similar provision. A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson characterized extended diagnostic delays as “unacceptable” and stated the government is committed to reducing gynaecology waiting lists and expanding surgical hubs through the renewed Women’s Health Strategy. The NHS is also planning to prioritize endometriosis through NHS Online, a new online hospital service providing remote expert care.
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