Connected Communities in Canberra

Meet your local coordinators

  • Hi, I’m Jess, a 37-year-old working in admin and sales with a background in office management, event planning, and disability support, and I’m also a qualified makeup artist. I was diagnosed with endometriosis at 19 after researching my symptoms following a miscarriage and a GP’s comment that I was "too young" to have it; since then, I’ve become passionate about raising awareness about how common and debilitating this condition is. Over the years, I’ve undergone nine surgeries for stage 4 endo, with the tenth at age 35, and I’ve had endo removed from various areas including my appendix, rectum, bladder, and even near my hip, which severely affected my mobility; there’s also a possibility of endo on my liver and pericardium. I also live with PCOS, adenomyosis, and infertility, and I hope to try IVF soon, although my conditions have kept me hospitalized and unable to work or socialise much of my 20s. As a long-time public patient, I am deeply committed to advocating for better, timely, and appropriate healthcare services within the public system and increasing community awareness and education about endo.

    Diagnosed with Stage 4 endometriosis after a 14-year journey, I’ve faced multiple surgeries, infertility, and menopause—experiences that drive my commitment to supporting women through similar challenges. I work with QENDO to break the taboo around endometriosis, especially in cultural communities, and recently began wellness coaching to empower women on their health journeys.

    Outside of work, I enjoy Pilates, strength training, long walks (inspired by my late dog, Ruffus Red), cooking, and creative hobbies. I value community, connection, and meaningful change—let’s chat!

  • Natalie has been in leadership in our Canberra community for over ten years. She is passionate about healthcare equity and supporting people with endometriosis and associated conditions to live their best life.

    Natalie has a Bachelor of Social Work from CSU and spent her early career working with people with disabilities. She later developed a career in government social policy.

    After developing ME/CFS, Natalie worked briefly as a swimming instructor, fulfilling a lifelong dream of following her other passion - water safety. She is currently a full-time mum.

  • Hi there! My name is Cara, I'm 23 and currently navigating life post university. I studied environmental sciences and have always had a big passion for "doing good". This passion and lived experience led me to work with QENDO on delivering the Canberra Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Expo in March 2025. From there I was asked to step into a more permanent role, so here I am!

    I've faced pelvic pain and menstrual health struggles since I got my first period at 11. It wasnt until I was hospitalised with suspected appendicitis years later that I realised I was having recurrent ovarian cysts. The pill was thrown at me with no further answers or care. It wasn't until I was 19 and started doing my own research that I heard about endometriosis. Through the pandemic, personal trauma and family crisises my health investigations took a back-seat. Fast forward, I now have confirmed adneomyosis and am waiting on a laproscopy. After lots of misdiagnosis, misinformation, and mismanagement, I am passionate about making real change in the health sector to deliver better results for the community. Like all of us, I don't want anyone to face the struggles I did in order to receive good care. QENDO has been a light in the dark for me, and I hope I can help be a part of that for others. 

Join our Online Community

Online communities provide a valuable space for support and information sharing for individuals dealing with endometriosis and pelvic pain. Our Group on Facebook offers a place for members to connect, share personal experiences, and access resources.

They can be particularly helpful for those seeking understanding and advice from others who are navigating similar health challenges.

Our Community emphasises privacy, respect, and mutual support, ensuring a safe environment for all participants.

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Resources and Information

  • Endometriosis

    One in seven women+plus* live with Endometriosis.

  • Adenomyosis

    Adenomyosis is a condition of the uterus (womb) where the cells similar to the lining on the inside of the uterus are also present in the muscle wall of the uterus.

  • PCOS

    Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition which affects approximately one in ten who are of reproductive age.

  • Pelvic Pain

    Pain that occurs below your belly button and above your legs, is known as pelvic pain. There are a lot of organs in your pelvic area, it’s where your uterus, ovaries, bladder, bowel, as well as lots of muscles live.