Abby Slater is an incredible person whose life has been disrupted by thoracic endometriosis. Abby is the most faithful and loyal friend I have known. Abby was diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis in 2020, which has since spread to her lungs, heart, bowel, and diaphragm, and severely damaged her entire abdomen.

So far, Abby has had six endo-specific surgeries, with another three already slated for 2025. Surgeons have removed portions of both lungs, and she’ll soon undergo a bowel resection. She has had multiple pulmonary embolisms and life-threatening infections. She’s been treated with chemotherapy and medication that caused spinal fractures, all in pursuit of alleviating endometriosis symptoms. She’s in constant pain even under the best circumstances, and has struggled to maintain a “normal” life, despite the chronic pain, extreme fatigue, medication side effects, and appointments.

Specialists at the top hospitals in the country say Abby has one of the most extreme cases of endometriosis they’ve seen. As her case becomes more complex and the disease spreads, fewer and fewer surgeons can operate on her. Because there are so few surgeons equipped to handle this disease, she’s had to travel to the Cleveland Clinic for two major surgeries and all related appointments and scans.

As of 2025, Abby will need to travel to Portland, Oregon, for another specialized surgery on her lungs and diaphragm. However, this private provider does not accept insurance, so Abby has made the difficult decision to pay for this surgery, as well as all associated travel costs, out of pocket. Of course, there’s the ever-present battle with insurance and existing medical debt, plus balancing medical care with a full-time job.

In her experience with this disease, Abby noticed a need for more education and resources for others with this rare form of endometriosis, and developed an Instagram account (@endomeech) to offer guidance to those facing this vastly understudied and misunderstood disease.

Any contribution to help Abby’s health journey is profoundly appreciated. The past five years have been very challenging, but through it all, Abby has moved forward with determination and resolve. She is deeply grateful for the love and support of her friends and family.