Christiana Hansen, a 49-year-old from Chatham, has launched a campaign for a specialized wellbeing hub in Medway to address reproductive health conditions, particularly endometriosis. Diagnosed in 2023 after experiencing symptoms for five years prior, Hansen manages her condition with high-dose medications taken two to four times daily. She describes the pain as severe and stabbing, noting that the emotional toll has significantly impacted her quality of life.
Endometriosis affects one in 10 women and occurs when cells similar to those lining the womb develop in other parts of the body, potentially affecting organs such as the bladder and bowel. Hansen reported feeling dismissed during medical consultations, with healthcare providers characterizing her symptoms as normal or a typical women’s issue. She emphasizes that pain of this severity should not be normalized and wants to reach out to others experiencing similar challenges.
Jessica Lewis, a 25-year-old from Broadstairs, received her endometriosis diagnosis two years ago after first experiencing symptoms at age 14. According to her NHS notes, she visited her doctor 22 times before receiving a diagnosis following surgery in 2024. Lewis describes the condition as severely limiting her daily activities and requiring her to reconsider plans and activities she once enjoyed.
Hansen’s proposed wellbeing hub would provide a safe space for patients to share experiences and include fitness facilities. Both Hansen and Lewis are calling for increased funding and improved training for medical professionals in diagnosing and treating endometriosis. Their local MP, Tristan Osborne, has expressed support for dedicated women’s health provision in the area and indicated plans to work with local councils to expand such services.
The Department of Health and Social Care acknowledged that lengthy diagnostic delays for women are unacceptable and stated the government is committed to addressing the issue. Officials announced plans to reduce gynecology waiting lists, expand surgical hubs, and introduce NHS Online, a digital service providing remote access to specialist care.