Diagnosed Stage 1 Endometriosis, Chronic Pain and Overactive/Hypertonic Pelvic Floor

 

Mackala is a 26-year-old pre-service TESOL educator, currently undertaking her final years of a combined degree in Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of TESOL at Flinders University in South Australia. In the future, she aims to teach and work with adult migrants and refugees.

 

Having lived with pain for as long as she can remember, Mackala took steps in her adolescence, with the support of her mother towards a diagnosis. After approximately 6 years of self-advocacy and many problematic encounters with health professionals - Mackala reached the point of a laparoscopic diagnosis of Endometriosis. Unfortunately, despite what she had hoped – her diagnosis did not provide relief and instead was only the beginning of her journey. 

 

Through this, Mackala has taken on the role of ‘advocate’ within her wider circle. She is adamant that more be done for women, beyond awareness and holistic management of symptoms. Realistic and tangible care that believes women, doesn’t scapegoat them, supports them and provides equitable and truly affordable access to gold-standard treatment for all.