My Endometriosis Journey: Learning to Be My Own Advocate

By Jordyn, Wellness Assistant at Inspire Natural Wellness

My journey with endometriosis has been difficult, emotional, and at times incredibly isolating. But through everything, the most important lesson I have learned is that I needed to become my own advocate.

No one knows your body the way you do. No one else feels your pain, lives with the symptoms, or has to carry the fear of not knowing what is happening inside your body. I learned that asking questions, speaking up, trusting my instincts, and continuing to search for answers changed the direction of my health journey completely.

That path is ultimately what led me to Dr. Tang and Inspire Natural Wellness.

The Beginning of My Journey

In October 2023, when I was 20 years old, I was rushed to the hospital because of a ruptured ovarian cyst.

I was in excruciating pain. It was one of those moments where you know something is seriously wrong, but you are also scared because you do not know what to expect. I had never experienced pain like that before.

When I got to the hospital, I expected urgency and support. Instead, I spent six hours waiting while being told that I had a ruptured ovarian cyst. I was terrified, in severe pain, and worried that my body could go into shock. Even so, I was refused pain medication.

Eventually, I had an X-ray and was told there was another ovarian cyst—this one measuring 10 cm and that I would need surgery to remove it.

At the time, I thought surgery would bring answers and relief. I had no idea how much more was ahead of me.

A Surgery That Changed Everything

In January 2024, I had surgery to remove the ovarian cyst. I was told it would be a simple procedure.

It was not.

Once the doctors began the surgery, they found that I had stage 4 endometriosis. The disease had created so much inflammation and abnormal tissue that it was difficult for the surgeon to tell the difference between the cyst and the surrounding tissue.

As a result, I lost half of my left ovary and my fallopian tube.

Afterward, my doctor told me that she was not trained to operate on patients with stage 4 endometriosis. She also told me that mine was the worst case she had seen in her career.

That was incredibly difficult to hear, especially at 20 years old.

Looking back, one of the hardest parts was realizing that I may have had another option. I could have been referred to an endometriosis specialist, someone with advanced training and experience who may have been able to preserve more of my ovary.

When I woke up from surgery, I asked how everything went. At first, no one would tell me. I had to demand answers.

When they finally explained what had happened, I started crying. I was alone in the post-op room because my family was not allowed in with me. I remember feeling scared, overwhelmed, and completely heartbroken.

The surgeon came up to me and said, “Are you able to leave besides the bad news?”

That was all.

It is an experience no 20-year-old should have to go through. Honestly, no one should have to feel dismissed or alone while receiving life-changing news about their body.

Healing Through Food and Hormone Support

Dr. Tang taught me that healing is not always about finding one quick fix. For me, it meant learning how to support my body consistently through food, gentle movement, and hormone regulation.

I began following an anti-inflammatory and autoimmune protocol-style diet. Instead of focusing on restriction or trying to lose weight, I focused on giving my body foods that helped me feel more supported and less inflamed.

The changes were not overnight, but over time, I began noticing a real difference.

I unintentionally lost about 20 pounds while following the protocol and incorporating gentle exercise. More importantly, I started feeling more capable in my own body again.

My period cramps and flare-up cramps are not nearly as severe as they used to be. Before, there were times during a flare-up when I could barely walk. Now, I am able to move through those days with much more ease.

I also do cupping, which has been especially helpful during the flare-ups I experience throughout the month. It has become one of the supportive tools I use alongside nutrition, hormone care, and gentle movement.

For me, these practices have not been about being perfect. They have been about learning what my body needs and responding with more compassion.

Becoming My Own Advocate

My experience taught me that being your own advocate can be uncomfortable—but it is necessary.

It can mean asking a doctor to explain something again.

It can mean getting a second opinion.

It can mean asking for a referral to a specialist.

It can mean listening to that feeling in your gut when you know something does not feel right.

It can also mean recognizing that you deserve to be treated with care, respect, and humanity not rushed through an appointment or reduced to your symptoms.

I wish I had known earlier that I was allowed to ask more questions. I wish I had known that I could seek out a specialist. But I also know that my story is still being written, and I am proud of how far I have come.

Why This Work Means So Much to Me

My experience with Dr. Tang has changed more than my symptoms it has changed the way I see healthcare.

She has inspired me to pursue a future in the medical field because I have seen firsthand how powerful it is when a provider truly listens. She sees her patients as people. She considers the whole picture instead of treating one symptom at a time.

That kind of care matters.

I will forever be grateful for the support, education, and encouragement I have received at Inspire Natural Wellness. Dr. Tang helped me begin rebuilding trust with my body after one of the hardest seasons of my life.

If you are navigating endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, hormonal imbalance, or symptoms that you feel are being dismissed, I want you to know this: you are not being dramatic. Your pain is real. Your questions are valid. And you deserve providers who listen.

Keep advocating for yourself. Keep asking questions. Keep searching for care that looks at you as a whole person.

Your healing journey may not look exactly like mine, but you do not have to walk through it alone.