For many women, getting the right care in the health system can feel like a constant struggle. Being misdiagnosed, waiting too long for treatment, or feeling ignored by doctors happens far too often. And sadly, many of these stories go untold, hidden under feelings of frustration and self-doubt.

But things are starting to change. More women are speaking up, sharing their stories, and highlighting the problems that so many others face too. Through this campaign, we are giving space to real stories; ones filled with strength, pain, and hope. Because when one woman shares her story, it gives another the strength to speak up too.

In this interview, we hear from Ms. Marisa, a 24-year-old British-Ghanaian woman. Her difficult experience with gallstones took a major toll on both her body and her mind.

When did you realize something was wrong?
One morning I woke up with really bad stomach pain. It went away after I took some painkillers, but a month later I woke up in the middle of the night with the same pain, only much worse. I had to call an ambulance for myself. That is when I found out I had gallstones, and within two weeks they had doubled in size.

How did it affect your daily life?
I could not go to school. I could not do simple everyday things whenever the pain hit.

Did you go to the doctor right away?
Yes, I went straight to the hospital. I knew this was more serious than something a GP could help with.

Did you try any treatments before or after your diagnosis?
Besides the painkillers and the medicine they gave me, I did not try anything else.

Was there a moment that really broke you or made you feel hopeless?
Honestly, there were a few. The first was hearing that I needed surgery, but that they could not do it right away because it was too inflamed. I had to live with the pain until then. That was hard.
The second moment was being just 16 years old and put in a hospital ward with elderly people. It made me think, “Is this really that bad? What did I do to cause this?” It was overwhelming.

How did this change you as a person?
Completely. I would not wish that experience on anyone, but I am proud I listened to my body and got the help I needed, both before and after surgery.

What would you like other women to take away from your story?
I really want women to take their health seriously. Everything I talked about was mostly the physical pain, the emotional pain is a whole other story. The physical pain fades with time, but the scars are a daily reminder. Still, your illness does not define you. You are stronger than you think.

The truth is, the challenges women face in healthcare will not disappear overnight. But every honest story brings us a step closer to a better system, one that listens, cares, and works.

If you have ever struggled to get a diagnosis or the right treatment, know this: your voice matters. Your story could help another woman feel less alone and inspire change that helps us all.

So, let’s talk. Share your story. Together, we can help make healthcare work better for every woman.