Speaking Up Through the Pain: Alexis Joel’s Journey with Endometriosis

Source: Newsday

Alexis Roderick Joel, typically known for maintaining a quiet presence alongside her husband, music legend Billy Joel, is stepping into the spotlight for a cause deeply personal and universally urgent. During Endometriosis Awareness Month, Alexis courageously opened up about her years-long battle with the often-misunderstood condition, using her voice to connect, educate, and inspire. What began as a vulnerable social media post has since evolved into a powerful platform for advocacy, shedding light on a condition that affects millions of women yet remains underdiagnosed and under-discussed. Her story is not just one of struggle—it’s one of strength, solidarity, and the power of speaking out.

Alexis Joel:

I felt that, it was Endometriosis Awareness Month, so I just felt like I needed to use my voice.

Elisa DiStefano:

When a typically private Alexis Joel shared her personal battle with endometriosis on social media, she received hundreds of messages of shared pain, support, and gratitude.

How did it feel for you, sharing your story and putting yourself out there and being so vulnerable?

Alexis Joel:

I loved that it just created a place where women could speak to each other about exactly what happened, and everyone’s story sounded like mine.

Elisa DiStefano:

Her story is about pain, persistence, and being her own advocate.

Alexis Joel:

I knew nothing about endometriosis. I’d never heard it before, and I finally, after going through doctor after doctor and multiple GYNs, I was diagnosed, and that was kind of step one. As much as I do have access, I was stuck in the same situation as everyone else. I found my doctor on Google. My doctor is a man named Tamer Seckin. I read that he did Amy Schumer’s surgery, so I was able to reach out to her, and she told me he will change your life, and a hundred percent do it. And he’s like my guardian angel. He’s working with Cold Spring Harbor, and they are opening a building. They are dedicating it to him, and it’s going to be solely for endometriosis research. So I’m really proud, and we are right in the shadow of the Billy Joel Park in Gold Spring Harbor. It’s a full circle moment.

Elisa DiStefano:

Wow, that’s perfect.