Crohn's disease
“I hope that if this is you, that you hold onto hope that things can get better.” – Amy story
I hope they discover why young people like me are increasingly being afflicted with this humiliating illness. And I hope that if this is you that you hold onto hope that things can get better. They have for me.
“Keep pushing until someone listens.” – Amelie’s story
Crohn’s is part of my life now. It’s not who I am, but it’s shaped me. It’s made me stronger, more aware, and way more vocal about what I deserve especially in a doctor’s office. If you’re struggling and being dismissed, don’t stop speaking up. You know your body. Keep pushing until someone listens. Because your pain is real. And you deserve to be heard.
“Be proud of who you are and celebrate your achievements when you’ve faced so many odds.”- Clare’s story
I think this is the most amazing and beautiful thing about living with Crohn’s and other chronic diseases that we get to have an amazing and different perspective than others. Also, having Crohn’s has made me an incredibly hard worker in anything that I do, and has allowed me to understand that any challenges in my life that come my way I will be able to handle.
“I never could have imagined this would be my life again — taking risks, laughing loudly, living fully” – Jeremy’s story
When I was sick, struggling just to get out of bed, I never could have imagined this would be my life again — taking risks, laughing loudly, living fully.
“I can’t stress enough the importance of advocating for oneself” – Charlotte’s story
Fortunately, through relentless self-advocacy and the search for answers about my condition, I finally connected with a gastroenterologist who truly listened to my concerns. She identified 13cm of inflammation in my colon and diagnosed me with active colitis. My gastroenterologist advocated for me and – since beginning my treatment with Infliximab infusions – I am grateful to be in remission.
“I’m reminded I am not just a Crohn’s person” – Rhiannon’s story
Life can still be beautiful and fulfilling with a chronic illness.
“So many people will support you through this journey” – Jennifer’s story
Throughout this process I have learnt that people care about you and are there to support you.
“It’s made me stronger than ever” – Teo’s story
Between 2019 and 2021, I was diagnosed with arthritis, a liver disease and HS skin disease. However, I finally entered into remission this year. It's been one wild ride, but I wouldn't change it because it's made me stronger than ever. I love my Crohn's Disease as it's a part of me.
“It’s important to know when you’re not okay, and to seek help during these times.” – Jackie’s story
For me, it’s so important to have people that I can turn to -to know that I’m not alone. I’d advise people to lean on their support network whenever they can. I’d also suggest doing your own research to remain informed, and to advocate for yourself. It’s important to know when you’re not okay, and to seek help during these times.
“If I can channel that frustration into something positive, that would be great” – Henry’s story
“If I can channel that frustration into something positive, that would be great” – Henry’s story My journey with Crohn’s…
“Not letting it define me was massive” – Chloe’s story
I think I got very deep into Crohn's disease being part of my identity for a long time. Now it's more of an unwanted friend that I live with every day. You don't have to become your diagnosis. There's so much more to life outside of that. You might have to adjust, but you don't have to miss out on everything.
“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.