The Traitors star Elen Wyn has bravely opened up about her battle with a severe health condition which has spread to multiple organs.
The 25-year-old, who gained recognition from her stint on this year’s series of the BBC show, was eliminated in the second episode.
Despite her early exit, Elen has been proactive post-show, using her newfound fame to highlight an issue deeply personal to her.
In a heartfelt TikTok video, she revealed that after ten years of seeking answers, she was finally diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis, the Mirror reports.
The sombre clip showed Elen with text overlay reading: “My brain after finding out I have stage 4 endometriosis and it’s spread to my bowel, bladder, kidney, ovaries and fallopian tubes after spending 10 years asking for help.”
The video prompted an outpouring of support from fans, many of whom shared their own experiences with the condition. One user wrote: “I had stage four. It was even in my lungs. Had surgery, hysterectomy and I’m fine. No kids though, obviously.”
Another added: “Girl we got you. Stage 4 on my bowel, just had a hysterectomy,”.
Since her appearance on the popular BBC show, Elen has amassed over 54,000 followers on TikTok and has used this platform to raise awareness about endometriosis, further illuminating her own journey with the condition.
In a candid video, she revealed: “This year I was diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis,” and went on to explain her approach to managing the condition.
She shared: “There is not a cure for his condition however I have found a way around managing it to the best of my ability. I’ve educated myself – I didn’t know much about women’s bodies or the menstrual cycle before this year.”
Endometriosis, affecting an estimated 176 million individuals globally, is prevalent in the UK, with one in 10 women of reproductive age reportedly suffering from the condition.
Public figures like Molly-Mae Hague, Judi Love, and Leah Williamson have also shared their personal experiences with endometriosis.
The condition involves cells akin to those lining the uterus growing elsewhere in the body, leading to severe symptoms such as intense period pain, heavy bleeding, exhaustion, and discomfort during or post sexual activity. In some cases, like Elen’s, endometriosis can impact other organs, including the bowel and bladder.
Although commonly found in the pelvic area, the British Society For Gynaecological Endoscopy and the Royal College Of Obstetricians And Gynaecologists note that up to 12% of those with pelvic endometriosis may have it in other parts of the body, including the chest.
Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging due to its symptoms mirroring other conditions, resulting in potential delays. Nevertheless, anyone suspecting they might have endometriosis should seek medical advice.
In terms of securing a diagnosis, a laparoscopy is the only definitive method to identify the condition. This procedure involves inserting a camera into the pelvis, enabling surgeons to search for indications of endometriosis in the pelvic area.
Currently, there is no cure for the condition, although treatments can be utilised to manage symptoms. In certain instances, surgery may be proposed.