The Traitors star said she was diagnosed with stage four
The finale of The Traitors has aired, leaving us all missing the show – and Claudia’s unforgettable reactions (and, of course, her iconic hair). But beyond the TV drama, one of its contestants is using her platform to raise awareness about a chronic and incurable condition.
Endometriosi, often called “endo”, is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of it, affecting areas like the fallopian tubes, uterus, lungs, and even the heart and brain. Diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis, meaning the lesions have spread extensively, Elen describes the pain as so severe that it can leave her unable to function.
The 24-year-old from Cardiff quickly became a fan favorite as a Faithful, impressing viewers with her sharp insight when she correctly speculated that a “strong female” was among the Traitors. Though she was ultimately banished, fans have flocked to her platform to follow her journey and hear her story.
Through her videos, she encourages others experiencing similar symptoms to consult their GP for advice. She revealed: “This year I was diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis.
“There is not a cure for his condition however I have found a way around managing it to the best of my ability. I’ve educated myself – I didn’t know much about women’s bodies or the menstrual cycle before this year.”
She shared that with a better understanding of her condition and body, she can now find solutions more quickly when symptoms arise. The BBC star also mentioned that she has taken time to reassess her diet and lifestyle.
She explained that once she “became aware of my body” and what caused her symptoms to flare up, she made changes and now “my pain isn’t nearly as bad as it used to be.”
She noted that it’s key you inform your workplace about this condition so they can support you as there’s days where she has been “too sick to work and in too much pain to function.”
Although endo has no cure, she says she tries to stay positive. “Despite the constant gaslighting by doctors”, a common complaint among women who seek medical help, Elen concludes that even with her “debilitating pain”, she “knows I’m not alone and that it’s still possible to live a great and fulfilling life even with” endometriosis.
