A support group for women living with endometriosis in the Borders has been praised for their work in Parliament.
Endo Borders is a group that raises awareness of endometriosis and supports those who live with the condition in the area.
The group is led by Tao McCready who was diagnosed with endometriosis in 2017 and left her career to support local people and raise awareness.
Borders MP, John Lamont, recently met with the group and praised the work of Tao and Endo Borders during a debate in Westminister.
The debate, named Endometriosis and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, was led by Labour MP Taiwo Owatemi after an e-petition reached 100,000 signatures.
During the debate, Mr Lamont said he was ‘impressed by the courage of the women who were sharing their stories’ and thanked Endo Borders for ‘the invaluable work they do to support women suffering from this terrible condition.’
Neighbouring MP, David Mundell, who also represents parts of the Scottish Borders, was chairing the debate and took the opportunity to praise Tao and Endo Borders for their work as well.
Endometriosis UK says that the condition affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age in the country and it costs the UK economy £8.2bn a year in treatment, loss of work and healthcare costs.
John Lamont MP said:
“I was very grateful to meet with Endo Borders earlier in the year and hear from women about their experiences of endometriosis. Too many women wait too long to be diagnosed with waiting times being around 8 years.
“One of the key issues is ignorance. 54% of people in the UK have never heard of the condition and I admit to being one of those before I met with the Endo Borders.
“With no cure and little understanding of its cause it is clear there needs to be more research into this condition. We also need to see diagnosis times drastically reduced.
“I was very impressed with the support provided by the group and I would urge anyone living with endometriosis in the Borders to consider joining.”
Tao McCready, of Endo Borders, added:
“It was great to have John come to meet with us recently so that our members could bravely share their experiences and journey with their local MP.
“We were very grateful to be mentioned in Parliament for our efforts in supporting people living with endometriosis and raising awareness locally.
“Anyone who is living with endometriosis is very welcome to join our private page on Facebook – ‘Endo Borders – Support’ – where there is a chance to share coping strategies and share personal experiences.”
