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Olivia Hicks is a Hobart based journalist and newsreader. She graduated from the University of Tasmania in 2011 and worked for 5 years as TV news reporter, before moving to radio news where sheI currently works at the largest commercial radio network in Tasmania.  

Olivia was diagnosed with severe endometriosis at the age of 26 in 2015, 13 years after her symptoms began. She suffered from chronic, agonising pain every month, fatigue, bowel and bladder issues, heavy bleeding, digestion issues, as well as constant bloating. The impacts of the disease weren’t just physical, either, but financial and emotional.  

It can be hard to function like a ‘normal’ human being when endo is involved. Cancelling plans, too many sick days to count, the ongoing medical costs, debt, tiredness, struggling to sleep, wanting to be physically active, but can’t because of the pain, relationship strain, stigma, trips to the ED, surgeries and procedures… the list goes on.  

Olivia became an Endometriosis Australia Ambassador shortly after her diagnosis, because she wanted to help women and girls manage this disease on a daily basis. Scientists are working tirelessly trying to find answers and better treatments, while awareness continues to spread. This is where Olivia found her passion – helping those with this chronic illness realise they are not alone.