We sat down with Eden Amende, Future Director on the Endometriosis New Zealand Board, to talk about her journey to diagnosis and what living with endometriosis has meant for her. In this Q&A, Eden reflects on the challenges of reaching a diagnosis, the personal insights the condition has given her, and how those experiences continue to shape her outlook on advocacy, resilience, and the future.
When were you diagnosed with endometriosis, and what was that journey like for you?
I was diagnosed with endometriosis in 2024 after several years of struggling with ongoing symptoms. I remember feeling shocked when my doctor recommended surgery, but I’m incredibly grateful that she did. It gave me clarity and a path forward. While I’m still learning how to manage endometriosis day to day, I feel very fortunate to have had timely access to quality healthcare.
What has living with endometriosis taught you about yourself and how has your experience changed the way you approach your health or wellbeing?
Living with endometriosis has taught me a lot about myself and changed the way I approach my health and wellbeing. It’s shown me that strength isn’t always about pushing through; sometimes it’s about resting and being kind to myself. I grew up swimming competitively but stopped as a teenager due to symptoms that I now know were related to endometriosis. I recently started swimming again, not just as exercise, but as a way to care for my wellbeing through something I genuinely love. It’s become a great way to manage symptoms while reconnecting with something that brings me joy, which is exactly why I chose swimming for my Endo 120 Challenge.
What does support mean to you personally?
For me personally, support means understanding and access — to good healthcare, to accurate information and to people who care. It’s about being heard and having the tools needed to manage my symptoms from day to day.
Why was it important for you to speak publicly about your experience?
It feels important to me to speak openly because endometriosis is still misunderstood and often minimised. Speaking about my experience has helped me to turn something that felt isolating into something that helps me to connect with and support others.
You can support Eden’s 120 Challenge and help drive awareness, education, and support for those affected by endometriosis. Visit her fundraising page to follow her progress and make a donation.
About the 120 Challenge:
The 120 Challenge is Endometriosis New Zealand’s national awareness and fundraising initiative during March. The challenge represents the estimated 120,000 people in Aotearoa New Zealand living with endometriosis, encouraging supporters to take on a creative “120-themed” activity while raising awareness and vital funds for education, support, and advocacy.