Welcome to Litsy!

I invited the endometriosis community to send in their stories. At the time, I thought I would individually edit and publish these on my Medium publishing platform. After reading them, I realized the strength of storytelling in women's circles, and a book blossomed.The courage it takes survivors to revisit trauma and share it publicly for the greater good, is a testament to each other's perseverance and integrity. Putting grief and abuse into words is a humbling journey in and of itself.But that's how warriors are made. Sharing these stories, I hope other women find validation and inspiration. The Endometriosis life is a social injustice. Together, by sharing our experiences, we can find our truth and build a more just future for the next generation.This book marks a celebration of empowerment for all our authors. Although cathartic, it's a huge journey to navigate and self-realize. A special thank you to all our readers too. Even reading these stories is breaking taboo and an act of rebellion. Each story is a snapshot in time from 2018 of women dealing with a cruel and misunderstood disease estimated to impact "1 in 10" women.A living document to bear witness to the Human Rights violations and the battle for justice."The medical community needs to wake up and listen to women. Women should not need to see multiple physicians, over a span of ten years, until they finally receive a diagnosis of endometriosis. Painful periods, and painful sex are not normal. Women's voices are real, and must be heard." - Iris Kerin Orbuch, MD, LAGynDr.com"Silvia brings storytelling to tangible policy goals. Once you hear, you are compelled to act. Elevating the voice of communities is fundamental - I'm committed to inclusion and empowerment on all issues of women's health, invisible disease and health justice." - Evan Branning, Alameda Public Health & Livermore Human Services Commissioner"Gynecology as a field of discipline is in the dark ages. Endometriosis is a classic example of a women's health disease outside the traditional field of gynecology. Doctors and women alike need more accurate information on women's health diseases, and appropriate care accordingly. Listening to women (and not making assumptions) is critical to early diagnosis across the spectrum. Women demand better on an international scale."- Kath Mazzella OAM is a passionate Gynecological Sexual & Mental Health Activist, Author, Cancer survivor with her vision of an International Gynecological Awareness campaign.By Silvia YoungForeword by Heather GuidoneCover Art by Jaimee Rae and Lleon Pascal