Lesley Boadu (EndoEcho Leader)
Patient Ally
Lesley Boadu
Lesley Boadu, a recent graduate from the University of Richmond, has earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Women, Gender & Sexuality Studies. A passionate advocate for women’s health and a champion against racial disparities in healthcare, Lesley has taken a significant step towards her goals by spearheading EndoEcho, an initiative focused on educating and raising awareness about endometriosis, with a special emphasis on the health disparities affecting Black women. With her deep commitment to advancing healthcare equity, Lesley aspires to pursue a career as an OB/GYN, where she aims to contribute meaningfully to eradicating health disparities in the medical field, ensuring better outcomes and empowerment for OB/GYN patients of all backgrounds.
Lucie Amrhien (Advocacy Specialist)
11 years to Dx, 4 surgeries
Angie Roeder (Patient Advisor)
2 Years to Dx, 3 Surgeries
Angie Roeder
Angie stands as a testament to the transformative impact of EndoArmy’s mission. Initially seeking answers after her undiagnosed endometriosis wreaked havoc post-c-section, Angie found solace and empowerment through EndoArmy’s support. With the organization’s assistance, she educated herself and connected with a care team that restored her quality of life. Beyond receiving aid, Angie has emerged as a devoted advocate and philanthropist. With a passion for social causes, she has catalyzed numerous non-profits and remains an indispensable member of the EndoArmy community. Her unwavering support, guidance, and generosity have left an indelible mark, from offering her family’s beautiful home to host guest speakers to organizing events at her winery. Despite relocating to California, Angie continues to champion the cause, staying engaged and providing support wherever possible. Her dedication epitomizes the spirit of solidarity and compassion that defines EndoArmy’s mission.
When Angie isn’t hard at work you may find her playing with her rescue dogs, spending time with her son, or cuddling with her pigs.
Karen Scoggins
Welcome to EndoArmy,
Endo began to affect my life not long after puberty began. From there I battled every day to feel well and by the time I was in my twenties my revolving door of surgeries began. All the while, many times, I had to deal with doctors who were willing to diagnose me with everything but endometriosis. I fought, I prayed and still was left looking for hope and a listening ear.
Endometriosis was found and shut down my gallbladder and appendix. Endo fused my pelvis aka “frozen pelvis”, it went through my sigmoid colon, grew its own nerves, causing my ovaries to grow cysts that would constantly rupture, causing me to have 11 surgeries. Endo was found in both my lungs at age 28. I had a hysterectomy at age 30 (doctor left my left ovary only). At age 38 that left ovary had multiple cysts which caused it to torsion twice, stopping blood flow. So it had to be removed. There are 4 stages of Endometriosis and I was stage 4 at age 23. Here I am still fighting this awful disease. I choose to speak out instead of keeping silent in hopes that others won’t feel alone.
Karen Scoggins (Co-Founder)
11 Years to Dx, 11 Surgeries
Amy Melhuish (Partner)
13 years to Dx, 9 surgeries
Amy Melhuish
From her charming old stone house nestled in the picturesque South of France, Amy Jane empowers women of all ages to embrace their chronic conditions and lead lives aligned with their desires. Picture a blend of Mary Poppins’ nurturing spirit with the resilience of Rosie the Riveter. Armed with a duffle bag brimming with humor, warm smiles, tough love, nourishing foods, the occasional power tool, a sprinkle of spirituality, strategic thinking, and comforting heat pads, Amy Jane offers holistic support.
Amy Jane’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable, punctuated by unexpected twists—courtesy of her battle with Endometriosis. Enduring a staggering 26 years of suffering, Amy faced a daunting 13-year diagnostic odyssey that began at the tender age of 14. With nine surgeries across multiple countries, including a hysterectomy, she continues to advocate for comprehensive and tailored treatment for her widespread symptoms. Accumulating expertise through her relentless perseverance, Amy Jane has become an “expert patient,” mastering the art of patience along the way.
Recognizing the stagnant landscape surrounding Endometriosis care despite decades of personal struggle, Amy draws upon her business acumen and unyielding determination. Donning her metaphorical big pants, she embarks on a mission to launch EndoGate™, a pioneering information-sharing platform aimed at revolutionizing how Endometriosis is understood and managed. Collaborating with EndoArmy, Amy Jane is determined to amplify her impact by reaching as many warriors as possible, forging ahead as part of a united front.