Hi, I’m Vidya Gopinath, a passionate public health advocate and proud QENDO member with 20+ years in public health, nutrition, and aged care. Now working in education as a Project Delivery Manager, I explore how health determinants intersect to create meaningful change.

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!

Hola, Hello my name is Ana. I am half Colombian and half German. I am an Occupational Therapist with a keen interest in pain management. I am also a trained yoga and meditation teacher.  I am a dog Mama to Jam, a 14 year old Whippet. I should also say that I am child free by choice. My husband and I love to travel, kayak and watch movies. I love nature, the beach and rainforest are my happy places. I am also not ashamed to say that I am obsessed with reality TV. 

I was diagnosed in 2019 at age 36 with endo after almost two decades of symptoms and seeking answers from countless doctors and specialists. Learning about endo has helped me understand my body better. The endo warrior community has helped me find ways to manage symptoms and validate a lot of what I have experienced for so many years.

One of my favourite tools to use is somatic tracking. 

For over 20 years, I experienced debilitating period pain and endometriosis symptoms, but I struggled to find answers. I grew up in a time where period pain was normalised and you were told it was part of being a woman. Knowing that the severity of pain I was experiencing wasn’t normal, throughout my teenage years and into adulthood I relentlessly sought medical opinions and tried various natural therapies, with no answers. It wasn’t until I was 37 and underwent my first laparoscopy that I finally received a stage 3 diagnosis, which was both a relief and a painful realisation. While the diagnosis validated my years of suffering, it also brought a sense of isolation as I was left to navigate my condition alone.

Driven by my own struggles and the desire to prevent others from facing the same long wait for answers, I became deeply passionate about volunteering and advocacy within the endometriosis community. I currently volunteer as a mentor and on the support line for QENDO, where I provide guidance and support to those going through similar experiences. Additionally, I founded my passion project Friends with Endo, a social support network where I organise and run events to connect those living with endometriosis and help alleviate the loneliness that is often felt after diagnosis. Always listening actively and showing empathy and compassion for the journey of others, I am deeply committed to making a difference and volunteering tirelessly in this space to ensure that nobody has to endure the same isolation and uncertainty that I did.

 Hi, my name is Shannon, I’m 29 years old and currently work as an enrolled nurse in anaesthetics, which I love! I’ve also embarked on my degree in registered nursing to progress further within my healthcare career.

I was diagnosed with stage 4 deep infiltrating endometriosis and suspected adenomyosis in 2022; definitely a life-changing diagnosis that took over 10 years to receive. 

Studying full-time, working full-time whilst experiencing full-time pain definitely takes a toll on you - I wouldn’t have been able to get through the last few years without my family and friends support. I want to take my experience and use it to benefit those going through similar situations/similar diagnoses and help support others whilst working with QENDO

I love working within the theatre environment; experiencing the excision of endometriosis surgeries first hand offers me a unique position where I am able to witness these major operations and meet patients pre-operatively and hear their story, whilst also being able to support them before they embark on the surgical route.

When I’m not at work I’m in my craft room scrapbooking, making macrame or in the kitchen whipping up something new.

I’m Leah, a 25 year old Registered Nurse currently working Griffith University. Prior to this I worked on both Adult & Adolescent mental health wards as a Clinical and Registered nurse. I currently am studying my post grad “Endometriosis & Pelvic Pain” as I have a huge passion for women’s health.

My journey with endometriosis started when I got my first period at 11, and after a challenging decade, I was diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis and interstitial cystitis. Balancing full-time work, studying, and a social life can be tough, especially when pain strikes unexpectedly, but I’ve been fortunate to have an amazing support system of friends and family.

I’m super passionate about education and advocacy for endometriosis and mental wellbeing. My goal is to work within the endometriosis space, and I would love to become a clinical nurse consultant specialising in this area.

In my free time, you’ll find me doing pilates, taking my dogs for walks, or enjoying quality time with my fiancée, family and friends (I love a good chat!). I also enjoy traveling, reading, and experimenting in the kitchen. If you ever need someone to talk to or just want to connect, feel free to reach out—I’m always here to help!

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.

We bring the community together throughout the year to increase education, support, awareness, understanding and learning how to manage our symptoms locally.