Imagine a world where a debilitating disease affects millions of women, yet remains shrouded in mystery, often dismissed or misunderstood. This is the stark reality of endometriosis, a condition that impacts an estimated 200 million individuals worldwide, causing excruciating pain, infertility, and a staggering number of hysterectomies. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite its prevalence, the causes and biology of endometriosis are still not fully understood, leaving patients with limited treatment options and invasive diagnostic procedures. This is the part most people miss—endometriosis isn’t just a women’s health issue; it’s a societal challenge that demands urgent attention and innovation.
On December 12, 2025, the EndoRISE Fall Forum brought together a powerhouse of leaders—researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and patient advocates—at The Jackson Laboratory (JAX) in Farmington, Connecticut, to tackle this very issue. This groundbreaking event, streamed globally, wasn’t just another conference; it was a call to action. Organized by EndoRISE, a pioneering initiative backed by JAX and the University of Connecticut School of Medicine, the forum aimed to spotlight endometriosis from every angle—awareness, advocacy, and scientific discovery. And this is where it gets even more compelling: the forum wasn’t just about sharing knowledge; it was about forging partnerships to drive real change.
Endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, affects one in ten women in Connecticut alone. Yet, its management often relies on hormone therapy, surgery, or lifestyle changes—none of which offer a definitive cure. Why is this still the case in 2025? The forum’s diverse attendees—from patients to industry leaders—engaged in candid discussions about diagnostic hurdles, barriers to care, and the historical neglect of women’s health issues. Is it possible that societal biases have slowed progress in endometriosis research?
Elise Courtois, a leading endometriosis researcher and director of JAX’s Single Cell Biology Lab, emphasized the urgency: “Without relentless investigation, endometriosis will remain a disease of invasive diagnostics and uncertain treatments. Events like this illuminate how deeply this condition impacts not just women, but society as a whole.” Her words were a rallying cry for collaboration, innovation, and empathy.
The forum’s highlights included a Fireside Chat moderated by NPR’s Michayla Savitt, featuring trailblazers like Heather Guidone from the Center for Endometriosis Care, Julia Mandeville of the Barbados Association of Endometriosis and PCOS, and State Representative Jillian Gilchrest, who chairs Connecticut’s Endometriosis Working Group. Their insights were both inspiring and sobering, shedding light on the lived experiences of patients and the systemic challenges they face. Could their stories be the catalyst for policy change?
Scientific presentations, moderated by Courtois and Dr. Danielle Luciano of UConn Health, showcased cutting-edge research. Dr. Katie Burns unveiled novel diagnostic methods using menstrual blood, while Dr. Michal Tal explored a provocative link between Lyme disease and endometriosis. Dr. Tamer Seckin shared surgical insights that could revolutionize patient care. Are these breakthroughs the tipping point we’ve been waiting for?
The keynote address by Stacey Missmer, a professor at the University of Michigan, was a powerful reminder of the role community plays in driving progress. “Women need to be believed,” she asserted. “By building connections and embracing diverse expertise, we can accelerate solutions exponentially.” Her words resonated deeply, challenging attendees to think beyond silos and embrace collective action.
As the forum concluded, State Representative Gilchrest’s words echoed the sentiment of many: “Hundreds of women in Connecticut have suffered in silence for far too long. This event isn’t just about awareness—it’s about laying the groundwork for tangible progress, both locally and globally.”
The EndoRISE Fall Forum wasn’t just a gathering; it was a movement. It underscored JAX and UConn’s commitment to women’s health and highlighted the power of collaboration. But here’s the lingering question: What will it take for endometriosis to receive the attention and funding it deserves? We invite you to join the conversation—share your thoughts, experiences, and ideas. Together, can we rewrite the narrative for millions of women?
