Got Guts
“I know I’m in very good hands with my amazing specialist and nursing team and I would like to thank them all so much” – Rachael’s story
I have colonoscopy's every 3 years now as, in my last few, I have been in deep remission. I know I'm in very good hands with my amazing specialist and nursing team and I would like to thank them all so much.
“I feel like I am one of the lucky ones being diagnosed so quickly when some people wait years for answers.” – Amanda’s story
I had never known such high anxiety until this trip, walking around an exhibition at the Australian Museum not knowing if my body will be good or I would have to run and find a toilet.
“Through all of it we have no choice but to go on with our days” – Svetlana’s story
For the last 9 and a bit years, I’ve only been in remission from my disease for one of those years. I’ve missed out on so many opportunities and general enjoyment because of this disease taking over my life.
Our Journey with Ella and Charlotte
Both of our daughters, Ella (13) and Charlotte (9), have been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. It’s been a journey of heartbreak, strength, resilience, and learning—for all of us.
“I will never give up trying to make a difference in the world” – Liesel’s story
I am a Crohn’s ileostomate of 27 years, a wife, mother, medical educator, writer, traveller, foodie, advocate and a doctor of 20 years.
“My friends keep reminding me that I should be proud of myself and lately, I really have been feeling that way.” – Emmie’s story
A few months into traveling, I had another checkup. The results: deep remission. All the hard work, taking multiple daily meds and supplements and working on my diet was all worth it! I cried happy tears in recovery, it had been such a long road back to feeling like myself.
“I still live a good life working and doing things I love doing” – Ronald’s story
At 58 years old I still have trouble with restrictions but with determination I still live a good life working and doing things I love doing.
“I’m reminded that my life isn’t completely ‘normal’ – but that’s okay – it’s my normal.” – Christian’s story
Since starting infliximab I’ve also packed up my life and moved to London for six months. I’ve taken part in a placement program in rural India. I’ve travelled to Bali, Singapore, the UK, Hungary, Greece, Belgium, Netherlands, Spain… I’ve attended the AusGP. I’ve graduated from a Bachelor of Pharmacy. I’ve worked full-time. I’ve studied for and sat multiple exams. I’ve learnt how to cook (or at least am trying to). I’ve made new friends and reconnected with old. I’ve been to concerts and festivals and beaches and parties galore.
My journey with UC, ileostomy and a J pouch – Georgia’s story
My name is Georgia. I am 24 years old. I'm in my final year of studying a criminology degree. I am a lover of health, fitness, and Muay Thai, I am a personal trainer, and amongst all this, I am a survivor.
“I’m not the only one with more than one diagnosis” – Allannah’s story
When I ran into people I hadn't seen in a while, they commented on how thin I was. When they asked for an explanation I had nothing to tell them. My GP, who was also impressed with my weight loss, and told me frankly that she had no idea what was wrong. She sent me to a gastroenterologist who was convinced it was Coeliac disease and performed an endoscopy. When it came back negative for Coeliac, he told me there was nothing wrong with me and that I should start drinking alcohol again.
“I have learnt so much about myself” – Bridie’s story
My experience with Ulcerative Colitis (UC) began long before I had a name for it
“You deserve a medical team that listens and investigates” – Elle’s story
While life is not completely the same as it was before diagnosis, it’s a new normal I can count on. I’m stronger, supported, and finally in control.