A YOUNG woman, who is preparing for her fifth operation to treat an incurable illness, has raised money for a charity which supports sufferers of the condition.

Franki Napolitano organised a charity tea party for Endometriosis UK, after she was diagnosed with the painful condition in 2012.

The 24-year-old, from Viables, Basingstoke, said: “I was feeling a bit fed up at the lack of knowledge of this condition, both in general and when it comes to treatment. Upon the news that I would need to have a fifth operation relating to this, I decided to do something positive and raise awareness.”

Endometriosis is condition where the lining of the womb is found in other parts of the body, and when it breaks down and bleeds, it has no way to leave the body.

As a result, it can cause inflammation and a build up of scar tissue, which can result in chronic pain, fatigue, fertility problems and heavy periods.

One in 10 women in the UK of reproductive age suffers from endometriosis, for which there is no known cause and no cure. It takes an average of seven years for women to receive a diagnosis after visiting their GP with symptoms.

Franki, who works part-time as a connect advisor for Sovereign Housing, said: “At first, I was rather apprehensive about sharing my story about this, as not many people are comfortable discussing women’s health. But why should this be the case?

“In the run-up to the event, I had lots of questions from both men and women, asking what the condition is and why I chose the charity. Surprisingly, upon telling them, I was congratulated on being brave enough to speak out about this. This spurred me on to make this fundraiser as great as I could.”

Franki contacted local businesses, including clients of Elite-Bodyworks, in Kingsclere Road, where she works as a part-time personal trainer, and asked for raffle prizes to help boost her funds.

The tea party was held at the gym, where Franki offered tea, coffee and home-made cakes, donated by clients, friends and family.

A cake in the shape of a pair of pink pants – which was the theme of Endometriosis UK’s tea parties held last year – was auctioned off. A total of £500 was raised on the day – double Franki’s target.

She said: “I feel extremely proud to have done my bit to help raise awareness for this great charity and I am really looking forward to holding more in the future, as well as attending other events held by other local sufferers.”