Frontshop Nov '13 november 2013 | Seite 42

PRODUCTS THE ENDOMETRIOSIS Society There is no permanent cure for endometriosis. The pain caused by Endometriosis is both physically and mentally exhausting. S hockingly, the first medical advance in the last 20 years was only made recently. In South Africa there are minimal support structures in place for women who suffer from this debilitating condition – yet there are millions of women suffering in silence… women that may not even know they have this diseases or women that are is diagnosed but still suffering. Last year this changed when the Endometriosis Society launched during World Endometriosis Week (3 to 8 March 2012). The Endometriosis Society was created especially for South African women living with endometriosis. 42 | NOVEMBER 2013 frontShop As an independent national organisation of women with endometriosis, doctors, and others interested in the disease, its goal is to be recognised authority in its field whose goal would be to provide education and support. With its creation, the Endometriosis Society aims to achieve many goals, one being the undertaking of massive educational projects. A range of scientifically credible, but consumer friendly literature, fact sheets, DVD’s, other multimedia and audiotapes are available through this society. Operating as a Not for Profit organisation, the Endometriosis Society’s aim is to initiate and maintain a database of patients and will work on enhancing the relationship and dialogue between patient and doctor. The society is approaching various partners including, but not limited to, pharmaceutical companies, medical aids, hospital groups, media houses, banking, legal and retail groups to create a dedicated facility to address the current lack of awareness surrounding endometriosis. Their goal is to put an end to the neglect, dismissal and discrimination faced by women suffering from this chronic painful condition, thereby improving their quality of life and medical care. “We encourage individuals with endometriosis to initiate support groups in the areas the reside or work in – and we will support individuals and organisations who share our vision,” said Lynne Zurnamer, one of the founders of the organisation. Further information: http://www.endpain.co.za/ or email: info@endpain.co.za