Bindi Irwin, the 26-year-old conservationist, zookeeper, actress, and daughter of the late Steve Irwin, recently achieved a milestone that resonated with her millions of followers.
Bindi celebrated conquering her first ‘big hike’ in years, after battling endometriosis – a debilitating condition that affects 10% (190 million) of reproductive age women and girls globally.
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In a social media post, Bindi shared that she hiked over 10 miles (16km) across three mountains with her husband, Chandler Powell. A feat that brought her to ‘happy tears’ after years of battling the crippling condition.
“My first big hike in YEARS since endometriosis took away so much,” she wrote. “I cried quite a few happy tears. Endless gratitude in my heart.”
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Bindi’s journey with endometriosis has been anything but easy – as is the experience for every 1 in 10 women who are diagnosed with the condition.
In March 2023, she opened up about her decade-long struggle with “insurmountable fatigue, pain, and nausea.” Despite countless tests, scans, and doctor visits, she was initially dismissed by medical professionals who told her to “simply deal with it as a woman.”
It wasn’t until a friend encouraged her to seek specialised care that she finally found answers. During surgery, doctors discovered 37 lesions, including a deeply embedded chocolate cyst. Bindi described the validation she felt as “indescribable,” marking the beginning of her recovery.
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The experience has turned Bindi into a passionate advocate for endometriosis awareness.
Irwin speaks openly about the stigma surrounding the disease and the importance of believing women’s pain. In her candid social media posts, she has encouraged women to keep searching for answers and to seek help despite societal pressures or dismissive attitudes from healthcare providers.
Irwin’s openness about her battle with endometriosis is a beacon of hope for millions of women facing similar struggles. By sharing her story, she creates a space for awareness and support for a condition that affects women worldwide.
“There’s stigma around this awful disease. I’m sharing my story for anyone who reads this & is quietly dealing with pain & no answers. Let this be your validation that your pain is real & you deserve help. Keep searching for answers,” says Bindi.
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Feature Image: Instagram / @bindisueirwin
