Chronic UTI Australia is fortunate to have a dedicated team of volunteers who bring their time, skills, and passion to our cause. In our latest blog article, we’re thrilled to spotlight one of our volunteers, Monica, who recently achieved an incredible milestone—securing a grant for Chronic UTI Australia from her workplace. Her story reflects the importance of our volunteers, the impact they make, and the urgent need for support to continue our work.

Monica’s journey with chronic UTI

Monica’s experience with chronic UTI spans most of her life, with symptoms beginning in childhood. Like many of our community members, she faced years of repeated misdiagnoses, dismissive responses, and the frustration of inadequate treatment.

“For decades, I was trapped in a cycle of positive test results followed by ineffective treatments and, eventually, being told there was nothing wrong despite ongoing pain,” Monica shared.

When Monica’s symptoms resurfaced in 2018, she discovered Chronic UTI Australia and its affiliated online support group. She finally found answers, along with a doctor willing to work collaboratively to provide effective treatment—as guided by her specialist physician at the Artemis Cystitis Clinic in London.

“My quality of life improved by 90 percent thanks to the resources, advocacy, and support Chronic UTI Australia provides,” Monica said. “That’s why I felt so compelled to give back to this incredible organisation.”

Giving back: Monica’s role as Treasurer

Monica joined Chronic UTI Australia as a volunteer Treasurer two years ago, bringing her 30 years of accounting experience to the role. Initially, her work involved setting up financial templates and fulfilling the charity’s financial reporting obligations. Over time, Monica has also contributed to critical projects, including preparing a submission to the Menopause Senate Committee.

While the time commitment can vary, Monica finds the work deeply fulfilling.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a team of wonderful volunteers who are making a real difference. I can use my skills to help the organisation advocate for patients and improve resources for both sufferers and medical professionals.”

Securing a grant for Chronic UTI Australia

Before her recent retirement, Monica was employed at Pacific Life Re Australia (part of Pacific Life insurance company). The company launched an ‘Employee Impact Grants Program’, which encourages employees to nominate nonprofit organisations they are passionate about. Monica applied for the grant and her heartfelt application, which shared her personal journey and Chronic UTI Australia’s mission, won the organisation a grant for AUD $7,800 (USD $5,000).

I was so excited and grateful to receive the grant,” Monica said. “Chronic UTI Australia is completely managed by volunteers and funded solely through donations and grants. Often we are very low on funds, as the organisation does not attract a lot of donations, due to competition with other large-scale charities. The cost-of-living crisis also impacts us, as people cannot afford to donate. This funding is crucial for us to continue our work.”

The grant will help CUTIA implement its strategic plan for the year, including maintaining the website, creating patient resources, and amplifying the voices of chronic UTI sufferers.

Sharing her story

One of the most impactful parts of Monica’s journey was sharing her story at work.

“Most people don’t know about chronic UTI unless they’ve experienced it themselves, including the majority of doctors, who still do not believe chronic UTI exists,” she explained. “The only way we can get the word out is by telling our own stories of chronic UTI.”  

Monica’s openness inspired her work colleagues and ultimately helped secure much-needed funding for Chronic UTI Australia.

“By sharing my story, I hope to raise awareness and bring attention to this largely misunderstood condition and hopefully, get more doctors on board, accepting chronic UTI is a real illness.”

Why volunteer?

Monica’s story highlights the incredible value of volunteering—not just for the organisation but also for the individual.

“Volunteering for Chronic UTI Australia has given me a sense of purpose, especially since my retirement,” she said. “I’m able to contribute to something meaningful and help other people feel less alone. The work enables me to utilise my accounting skills and the rewards far outweigh the effort”. 

Why we need your support

Chronic UTI Australia operates entirely through the dedication of volunteers like Monica and the generosity of donors and grant programs. We receive no government or industry funding, making every dollar critical to our mission.

If Monica’s story inspires you, there are many ways to help:

• Volunteer: Share your skills to support our work.
• Donate: Your contributions help us continue to advocate, educate and provide free resources for those living with chronic UTI.
• Spread awareness: Share stories like Monica’s to bring attention to this misunderstood condition.

Thank you, Monica, for your support and dedication and for showing us what’s possible when passion meets purpose.  We are also deeply grateful to Pacific Life Re Australia for their generosity and belief in our charity. 

For more information about Chronic UTI Australia and how you can support, visit https://www.chronicutiaustralia.org.au/support/

Written by Sally Murali,
Social media and digital reach
Chronic UTI Australia Inc., 2025