Lyndsy McDonald
My name is Lyndsy and I am a she/her.
I'm 28 years old and live in Toronto, Ontario with my adorable cat. I have stage IV, widespread endometriosis. I was first told I had suspected endometriosis at the age of 13; I had heavy periods, IBS and a lot of pelvic pain. I was given birth control and told for many years that I was fine, and that this was all normal. I was mocked by many doctors throughout my life, and this treatment still continues today. Many believed I was causing my own issues.
This type of neglect and gaslighting should not happen to anybody, but sadly, is a very common experience among those with endometriosis. We all deserve to be heard and should not have to fight, suffer and beg to be acknowledged.
My journey with endometriosis really took a turn for the worst over the past two years. I stopped getting periods in 2019 and dealt with confused doctors who did not hear my concerns about my suspected endometriosis and continued to prescribe birth control. In 2020 I started experiencing cyst ruptures, chronic swelling (endo belly), constant pain, and severe bowel issues. It was at this time I started to understand the importance of self-advocacy, research, and the general lack of knowledge of endometriosis and related issues.
On June 2, 2021, I had my first diagnostic laparoscopy which confirmed that I have endometriosis on every single pelvic organ. My diagnosis took 15 years. I am now waiting to see a few different specialists, as I still suffer greatly since my surgery and hope to have a full excision in the near future.
I lost my job, my quality of life, my ability to enjoy most foods, and even my ability to drive in early 2021. Currently, I am thriving on a vegan and gluten-free diet, I walk as much as I can, and I have started to openly discuss my experience online in hopes of enlightening and educating others. I am a freelance writer and working toward becoming a nutritionist as well, as I hope to take my passion for writing, helping others, advocating for endometriosis patients, and food as far as I can and be comfortably self-employed, doing something I love every single day.