CAMPAIGNERS brought the fight against endometriosis to the streets of Droylsden and Audenshaw, as part of a powerful community walk to raise awareness of the often-misunderstood condition.
Around 30 people of all ages took part in the event on Saturday, March 28, organised by local support group The Chronic Room, to mark Worldwide Endometriosis March Day during Endometriosis Awareness Month.
Dressed in yellow – the recognised colour for endometriosis awareness – participants walked from The Silly Country pub on Market Street in Droylsden to The Snipe Inn on Manchester Road in Audenshaw, holding placards displaying statistics and hard-hitting messages about the condition.
The walk not only aimed to raise awareness but also to show solidarity with those living with endometriosis, a condition where cells similar to the lining of the womb grow elsewhere in the body, often causing severe pain and significantly impacting daily life. It is estimated to affect one in 10 women in the UK.
Organisers say the event struck a powerful chord locally, while also raising £500 for the national charity Endometriosis UK to support others affected and fund ongoing awareness work.
The Chronic Room was recently launched by Jess Hankinson and her friend Jorja, with a mission to create a safe and supportive space for people living with chronic and invisible illnesses.
Reflecting on the day, Jess told The Correspondent: “The day itself was incredibly special. Seeing so many people come together, wearing yellow and supporting one another, was genuinely emotional.
“It wasn’t just a walk, it was a chance for people to feel seen, heard and understood, many for the first time. The impact it had, even just locally, was powerful. People were sharing their stories, making connections, and realising they’re not alone in what they’re going through.”
She added: “One of the biggest highlights was the atmosphere throughout the walk. At one point we even stopped traffic, and passing drivers were beeping and cheering us on. It really showed how much support there is when people understand what we’re fighting for.”
Alongside organising events, Jess is also campaigning for better education around women’s health.
She has launched a petition calling for gynaecological conditions to be included in the secondary school curriculum, aiming to improve early awareness, reduce stigma and tackle delays in diagnosis.
The Chronic Room continues to run free, regular support groups for people living with chronic or invisible illnesses, as well as additional wellbeing and social events through its sister initiative, “Beyond the Room”.
With more awareness and fundraising events planned over the summer, Jess hopes to keep the momentum going and that more people will join the conversation.
Anyone interested in finding out more can join The Chronic Room’s Facebook group or follow the group on Instagram.