I’m getting excited about participating in the Endometriosis Awareness Virtual 5K! This event was organized by a group who will be running together in Seattle tomorrow. People all across the country were invited to participate “virtually” in their own locations. Since registering about five weeks ago, I have been walking each day and I think I am ready! I mapped out my course through the streets of downtown Wooster and will begin around 11am. The event T-shirts were mailed earlier this week, but mine has not yet arrived. L What a disappointment! But not to be deterred, I went to the craft supply store this evening to purchase a yellow T-shirt, fabric pens, and embroidered butterfly appliqués. I also bought yellow ribbons and made pins to give to people I encounter along my route. Though my registration fee supports the Endometriosis Research Center, the event is not a fund-raiser. It is simply to raise awareness of this often debilitating disease that affects 1 in 10 women (176 million worldwide). Here are some basic facts:

• Endometriosis occurs when tissue normally found in the uterus grows outside of the uterus and on other organs and structures in the body.
• Its cause is unknown, though some theories include genetics, a faulty immune system, and/or the over-production of estrogen
• Symptoms include very painful menstrual cramps, pelvic and lower back pain, intestinal pain, infertility and fatigue.
• There is no cure. However, the disease can be treated with pain medications, hormone treatments, and surgery.

A fact sheet with more information can be found on the Department of Health and Human Services website at http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/endometriosis.pdf

I’ll post pictures from my walk tomorrow.

Until next time, peace …