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What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a painful, chronic disease that affects at least 6.3 million women and girls in the U.S., 1 million in Canada, and millions more worldwide. It occurs when tissue like that which lines the uterus (tissue called the endometrium) is found outside the uterus -- usually in the abdomen on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and ligaments that support the uterus; the area between the vagina and rectum; the outer surface of the uterus; and the lining of the pelvic cavity. Other sites for these endometrial growths may include the bladder, bowel, vagina, cervix, vulva, and in abdominal surgical scars. Less commonly they are found in the lung, arm, thigh, and other locations.

This misplaced tissue develops into growths or lesions which respond to the menstrual cycle in the same way that the tissue of the uterine lining does: each month the tissue builds up, breaks down, and sheds. Menstrual blood flows from the uterus and out of the body through the vagina, but the blood and tissue shed from endometrial growths has no way of leaving the body. This results in internal bleeding, breakdown of the blood and tissue from the lesions, and inflammation -- and can cause pain, infertility, scar tissue formation, adhesions, and bowel problems. (www.endometriosisassn.org)

 

 

  • A definitive cause of endometriosis is not known

 

  • There is currently NO CURE for Endometriosis.

 

For more information about Endometriosis symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, visit www.endometriosisassn.org or endometriosis.org

The Movement


"Awareness of this chronic, painful hormonal and immune-system disease is key to early diagnosis and treatment.  Thank you Michelle for your commitment to reach others so they don’t suffer.”

 

 - Carol Drury, (fmr)Education Coordinator and Associate Director,  Endometriosis Association 

Fighting Fiercely Expo 2016
Soulful Chicago KWANZAA Book Fair 

Fighting Fiercely © is an Endometriosis Awareness advocacy movement created to educate enlighten and empower Endometriosis sufferers and their loved ones in learning more about Endometriosis; a painful, chronic, yet grossly underexposed disease that affects over 6.3 million women, girls, and teens here in the U.S., and millions more worldwide.  

 

I created the campaign in 2011 as a result of my own diagnosis and life changing experience with the disease starting in 2008. Having had such a mentally, physically, and emotionally overwhelming experience, I decided that if I had to live with this disease, I would do just that: LIVE! As a Licensed Massage Therapist and Wellness Educator for nearly 15 years, I decided to take the mantra of my business, 'Educating, Enlightening, and Empowering' - and dedicate it to raising awareness for sufferers, survivors, friends, family, and loved ones who are all affected by this disease.

Click here for more personal discussions with Michelle about Endo


“Her annual Endometriosis awareness event, Fighting Fiercely, brings together a lively, multi-disciplinary group of speakers and participants that shed a holistic light on the topic from medical, nutritional, health, and fitness and spiritual perspectives. Ms. Johnson’s story is not an easy one to tell, but she does so bravely and enthusiastically, and with the ultimate goal of touching others’ lives with hope.”

 

- Judith Florendo, PT, DPT

Florendo  Physical Therapy, PC

Special Fighting Fiercely  Moments

For the past 5 years, Fighting Fiercely has brought together experts and professionals from both the medical and holistic community to offer fun, facts and awareness in helping both women and their families learn to live, love, and flourish in the midst of navigating this tumultuous journey. Here are a few of our favorite moments from our  'fierce fights.'

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