Time to Raise Our Voices!

We’re pleased to share here some episodes of Joe with Endo, our popular cartoon character who appears in endo “adventures” in all three of our books.

Joe, a young man with endometriosis, has helped thousands of people understand that endo should be taken seriously. He helps show, with
humor, that if a disease like endo affected millions of young men rather than millions of young women, society would think of it differently. If there were millions of Joes out there―young men whose dreams were in danger of being destroyed by a disease, whose ability to function sexually was at risk, whose fertility was at risk, whose ability to build a satisfying work life and carry out the normal activities of living was at risk, and who even would face the threat of castration―no one would dare say it was normal or unimportant.

We hope you enjoy “Joe” while realizing the real tragedy behind him―that everything that happens to Joe is based on the actual experiences of thousands of women with endometriosis. Let’s change that!

Mary Lou Ballweg, Endometriosis Association founder, dreamed up Joe and wrote his script. The talented artist, Meri Lau, gave form to Joe in our books. If you’d like to see all Joe’s adventures, check out Endometriosis: The Complete Reference for Taking Charge of Your Health, available on this website, Amazon, or free with Association membership.

Time to raise our voices for endometriosis awareness! Learn how YOU can get involved!

Cartoon character Joe with Endo, smiling against a pink background, representing the challenges of individuals with endometriosis, as envisioned by Mary Lou Ballweg.

Joe is a typical young man in his twenties. He has all the realistic dreams of a young man―the perfect life, perfect wife, perfect job, perfect house, perfect family, perfect body.

There’s just one problem….

Cartoon depicting Joe, a young man in a hospital gown, expressing concern about worsening pain while contemplating marriage; a doctor cheerfully suggesting marriage will alleviate his worries about "normal pain."

Cartoon depicting Joe, a young man in a hospital gown, interacting with a female doctor in a lab coat, discussing health issues humorously, with text bubbles addressing endometriosis awareness.

Cartoon illustration of a young woman in a hospital gown receiving a prescription from a doctor, with a thought bubble depicting concerns about pregnancy, reflecting themes of endometriosis awareness and health management.

Cartoon character Joe looking confused and worried, holding a phone, with a thought bubble expressing disbelief about pregnancy, emphasizing challenges faced by individuals with endometriosis.

Understanding Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside of it, leading to pain and other complications. It affects millions of women worldwide, often resulting in debilitating symptoms that can interfere with daily life and fertility.

Common symptoms of endometriosis include severe menstrual cramps, chronic pelvic pain, and pain during intercourse. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as they can significantly improve quality of life and reproductive outcomes. Awareness campaigns, like those led by the Endometriosis Association, aim to educate the public about the condition and its impact on individuals and families.

Joe's Journey: A Unique Perspective

Joe, the cartoon character representing individuals with endometriosis, provides a relatable and humorous lens through which to view the challenges posed by the condition. His adventures illustrate the struggles faced by those with endometriosis, making the topic more approachable and fostering empathy among readers.

Through storytelling, Joe highlights the societal misconceptions surrounding endometriosis, challenging the stigma and encouraging open conversations. His character serves as a reminder that the experiences of those affected by endometriosis are valid and deserving of attention and support.

Get Involved: Supporting the Cause

There are numerous ways individuals can get involved in raising awareness about endometriosis and supporting those affected by it. From participating in local events to advocating for better healthcare policies, every action counts in the fight against this often-misunderstood condition.

The Endometriosis Association offers various opportunities for involvement, including membership, volunteering, and participating in fundraising initiatives. By joining the cause, individuals can help amplify voices, share resources, and contribute to a greater understanding of endometriosis in society.

Educational Resources and Support

The Endometriosis Association provides a wealth of educational resources for individuals seeking to understand more about the condition. These resources include brochures, webinars, and access to expert advice on managing endometriosis effectively.

In addition to educational materials, the Association offers support networks for those affected by endometriosis. Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide emotional support and practical advice, making the journey a little less daunting.