Finding Clarity After Uncertainty – Hannah’s Story
When I was 13, I started feeling unwell in ways I couldn’t fully explain, and at first, I tried to ignore it, convincing myself it would pass. As the months went on, my body grew weaker and my mind grew tired from constantly pushing through pain and exhaustion.
Just before my 14th birthday, I became sick with what doctors believed was Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), but instead of getting better, it dragged on for months and took even more from me. Being repeatedly dismissed made me feel invisible, like I was fighting something serious on my own.
Eventually, one test finally showed how much my body had been struggling, and everything changed overnight.
I was urgently referred to the Royal Children’s Hospital, where I underwent surgery on December 19, 2024, and was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease.
After almost a full year of medical stress, uncertainty, and fear, I was finally able to begin treatment with infliximab. Now, as I approach 16 years old, I’m slowly starting to feel stronger and better as the days go by.
Many young Australians like Hannah feel isolated, stressed, and frustrated dealing with IBD. Our Youth Support page provides important information and helpful resources to help you feel confident that you can live fearlessly with IBD.
If you or someone you know would like to share their own story, click here.