Flush The Stigma

Bag, baby and bravery – Kate’s story
Recovery was difficult, especially while navigating new motherhood at the same time. But one year on, I’m healthy, active, and grateful to be here. I used to see stoma surgery as the worst-case scenario—but it truly isn’t. I wish I’d known back then just how much life was still possible after surgery.

“Hold on to hope if you can” – Chloe’s story
While my Crohn's is not fully settled, I am happier than ever. I have almost finished my degree in Journalism, I am working in a job that I love and am surrounded by amazing friends and support. I have been able to travel overseas with complications and plan to go on three more trips this year!
“You are NOT a burden – you are a gift.”- Lesa’s story
My name is Lesa, and I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2015 at the age of 37. To say it was a complete shock is an understatement. I had heard of Crohn’s disease, but I had absolutely no idea about its extremely challenging symptoms and the devastating—and constant—effects it would have on my life.

My journey is my strength – Emma’s story
Some days are harder than others. But even on the toughest days, I choose hope.

“It’s such a horrible disease – but for it to have a reason or purpose, I think is great. I think volunteering kind of gives it that purpose. ” – Adam’s story
There’s always going to be good days, there’s always going to be bad days. My personal motto is to roll with the punches. I mean, it’s not always going to be easy, it’s not always going to be one step and you’re better. Sometimes you do just have to kind of sit with that. And it can be horrible, but I think a lot of my stuff is the stuff surrounding Crohn’s — so my Crohn’s has been really bad, but since I’ve been in remission for a couple of years now, which is great, but now it’s just a lot of random stuff. Like, eczema and stuff because of the Crohn’s. And yeah, so it’s always just — you just got to roll with the punches sometimes. And if it’s a bad day, it’s a bad day. And you just go to get through that day, rest, go to bed, and then get up and start the day fresh.
“Maybe one day something might come along that works” – Rod’s story
“Maybe one day something might come along that works” – Rod’s story My Crohn’s flare ups have been out of…

“My three points for living with IBD: Own your health, tell someone, celebrate your wins.” – Daniel’s story
In 2009, I was 20, playing rugby at a high level and at peak fitness, until my body blindsided me.…

“To anyone that knows someone with any disease, please be kind, because everyone you meet is fighting a battle you may know nothing about.” – Libby’s story
The year 2004 changed my life forever. I’ll never forget the day a specialist called and said, “You have Crohn’s…

“If your body is telling you something’s wrong, then it’s probably right.” – Elli’s story
It has now been 6 months; I am slowly starting to feel healthy and be able to enjoy my hobbies. I thought the pain I felt was "normal," but I now know it was not. If your body is telling you something's wrong, then it's probably right. I have decided to share my story to help others who feel alone within their diagnosis.

“I hope to help inspire other teens with IBD and encourage them to share their own”- Maythem’s story
Even though the people around me kept telling me I was faking, I knew something deep inside was wrong. I…

“Remember, you are not alone, and you are doing amazing” – Julia’s story
If I had been told two years ago that I would end up with an ostomy bag, I probably would have cried and not wanted it and would have worried about being “different”. Today, it’s something I’m incredibly grateful for, and for my surgeons and gastroenterologist who listened. There are plenty of support networks out there for those who are struggling and knowing who they are can be a huge help, not just for your physical health but for your mental wellbeing too. Remember, you are not alone, and you are doing amazing.

“I am not giving up hope”- Kasey’s story
I am not giving up hope and want to share my story with others who may have similar symptoms and feeling completely lost. Please seek specialist help from a gastroenterologist who is specially trained to help people with IBD. Reach out to others in IBD groups because having someone to talk to that can relate to you is invaluable for your mental health. You are not alone, it’s just sad many do not share their story.