“The people who love and support you will listen” – Hamish’s story
At first, I tried to ignore my symptoms, desperate to feel “normal” like everyone else. But deep down, I felt weak and powerless. I turned to alcohol and self-destructive habits, using them as an escape, a way to momentarily forget the reality of my condition. But after years of battling stress, frustration, and anger, I finally accepted the truth. This disease wasn’t going anywhere—but how I chose to live with it was up to me.
“I will always advocate for the safety and protection of us all” – Diya’s story
I know that the surgery may still happen down the road, but for now, I’m enjoying the relief that remission brings and am focused on living life to the fullest.
Education / Flush The Stigma / IBD Awareness, / Medication / Support / Surgery / ulcerative colitis / Youth
“It has been a whirlwind but I am hopeful” – Gracie’s story
I have decided to laugh at the hardships of my disease because I think that’s the best way to manage! Even though being at work, uni, on film sets or going out with my boyfriend and friends means I always need to know where a toilet is at all times or I may cry. I can only cry so much. I miss broccoli. I miss fibre, spicy foods, salami, I miss it all! And mostly I miss not being in pain. I also miss not pooping my pants.
Crohn’s disease / Flush The Stigma / Got Guts / IBD Awareness, / Lifestyle / Medication / Support / Surgery
“Some would say I’m unlucky to have gotten sick; I say I’m lucky I lived.” – Trent’s story
It’s hard to fathom how much you take living a “normal life” for granted. Being able to sit down and enjoy a meal, go to the footy on a Saturday, enjoy a beer without worrying about what’s to come, or just sit on the couch with your wife after dinner watching TV. It’s little things like this you don’t realise how good they are until you can’t do them.
Trent
Flush The Stigma / Got Guts / IBD Awareness, / ileostomy / Lifestyle / ostomy / Support / Surgery / ulcerative colitis
“I want to be someone who talks about it” – Cody Ramsey’s story
“Losing 29 kilograms in a matter of weeks, surviving multiple surgeries and an eight month stint in hospital, he is set to make what may be the greatest comeback in rugby league history.”
Cody
“You deserve to be heard” – Erin’s story
I thought I was honestly a goner. I want to show everyone that there is hope even when you feel like there’s no way out.
Erin
Testing my limits and inspiring others” Owen’s story
Yet, through this turbulent period, something changed within me. As my body slowly regained strength, so did my resolve. I knew I had been given a second chance, and I was determined to make the most of it. Less than two months after my total colectomy, I completed a sprint triathlon with my new ileostomy bag, finishing 8th in my age group. The victory was more than just a physical achievement; it was a testament to my willpower and a signal to myself that my journey was far from over.
Owen
“Looking at the bigger picture is vital” – Katie’s story
When I was a teenager, I didn’t have these kinds of conversations, and I think that’s part of why my diagnosis took longer than it should have. A lot of people with Crohn’s disease keep their symptoms to themselves out of fear or shame, and I hope that by sharing my story, I can encourage others to be more open about their struggles.
Katie
“Nothing compares to poor health as a stark reminder of what truly matters” – Kelsie’s story
Being “fearless” isn’t just about bouncing back after health setbacks; it’s about having the guts to dust yourself off and keep pushing forward. It’s about gaining the confidence to live life fully, to build resilience, and to embrace the twists and turns that come with health challenges. That is where the true strength lies.
Kelsie
“Thankfully I received that amazing gift”: Transplant Australia Football Club player and Chairman Ante Kelic
“It can be powerful for people to see recipients with similar interests and passions, who have come out the other side.”
Ante
“Treat everyone as a human being, not a textbook case.” – Sara’s story
She provided me with great advice – the basis of which was my focus and energy should be on getting through the day. I try not to worry about what this disease could do to me. I just worry about what it’s doing right now, and how I’m going to better it today.
Sara
“Living your life and chasing your dreams” – Ironman Sam’s story
I want to spread the word that Crohn’s is horrible. It is life changing. But it doesn’t have to prevent you from living your life and chasing your dreams.
Sam
