A WOMAN from Poole is set to raise money for a charity close to her heart by walking eight kilometres every day for two months.

Alexandra Szathmari, 29, who works in Poole Hospital, is fundraising for Endometriosis UK by taking part in 'Walk for Endo'.

Unlike last year where she walked 7.5 kilometres for the challenge, Alexandra has increased the distance to eight kilometres, representing the average number of years it takes for an endometriosis sufferer to be diagnosed.

Alexandra was diagnosed with endometriosis in 2019 and has already had three operations.

Now, she is hoping to raise more awareness of the condition whilst raising money for an important charity, starting on July 1.

Alexandra said: "I want to support people with endometriosis and raise money for Endometriosis UK.

"I want to encourage people to go and get their pain checked out, it’s worse than normal period pain. I have suffered with the right side of my leg going numb and bad back ache, which affected my last job.

"It would be good for women to recognise that their pain may not just be period pain. I also hope it will make workplaces take it more seriously as it makes such a difference if people are understanding.

"The annoying thing is women aren’t usually diagnosed with endometriosis unless they have a laparoscopy. People need more awareness of endometriosis and every little thing helps."

Alexandra is hoping to surpass her total number of funds raised last year which was £506.

She said: "I am hoping to raise more money than last year and I really want to beat that target. It would be brilliant to raise more than £500 but every little helps.

"I’m going to push for awareness and for people to ask for help and support. One in 10 women have endometriosis, it is a common thing, so I think this fundraiser will benefit a lot of people and may even help them get support from work."

To support Alexandra, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/alexandra-szathmari1