As her health improved, the weight began to come off. She gained confidence, started exercising and discovered a passion for running.
Eighteen months ago, she could not run for longer than a minute.
Since then, Thurlby said she had completed the Worcester Half Marathon and is now training for next year’s London Marathon.
Her experience is shared by Vicki Shattock, from Belbroughton, who has written a book about her own struggle to have health concerns taken seriously.
Shattock urged women experiencing persistent pain to trust their instincts.
“You know your body better than anyone,” she said.
“If someone is telling you pain is normal and you know it isn’t, don’t let it go.”
