💗 My journey with endometriosis, hysterectomy and Fowler’s syndrome

Kia ora, my name is Maia.

In April last year, I had a hysterectomy, hoping it would give me a fresh start after years of battling many health problems. As a mum of four beautiful children, I was ready to feel like myself again and enjoy life without the pain.

Sadly, my journey took an unexpected turn.

weeks after surgery, I developed a severe infection and bleeding, which led to urinary retention. I suddenly couldn't wee on my own.

Six months after my hysterectomy, I underwent another procedure. Doctors discovered kinked ureters, a twisted ovary, cysts and endometriosis in multiple places. We hoped we had finally found the cause of my bladder problems.

After the procedure, my catheter was removed, and for a brief moment, I could wee on my own again. It felt like such a huge achievement after everything I'd been through.

My bladder stopped working, I travelled to Christchurch for urodynamic testing, where I was finally diagnosed with Fowler's syndrome, a rare condition affecting bladder function.

Living with urinary retention and relying on catheterisation has changed my everyday life in ways I never imagined. I went into surgery hoping to take back control of my life, only to face another battle.

Now, I'm hoping to trial Sacral Neuromodulation, also known as sacral nerve stimulation, which may help manage my symptoms and improve my quality of life.

Unfortunately, the treatment costs around $61,000, which is a huge amount for my family to afford.

All money raised goes to fund SNM. ❤️