Got Guts
“Ulcerative colitis didn’t just change her life it changed all of ours.”
Ulcerative colitis didn’t just change her life it changed all of ours. We became closer. We became more tired, more emotional, more aware of the fragility of everything. There were arguments. Tears. Long nights of silence. But there was also love so much love. We celebrated the little victories: a full week without pain, a good doctor’s report, a laugh in the hospital room. Those moments meant more than any birthday party ever could. We learned how to fight together. How to lean on each other. How to keep hope alive, even when it was flickering.
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!
My journey is my strength – Emma’s story
Some days are harder than others. But even on the toughest days, I choose hope.
“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.
“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 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.
“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.
“Having to learn to live life in a completely different way takes a heavy mental toll” – Emily’s story
It’s been a long journey to get to where I am today, but I’m proud to say I’m back to feeling strong and fit and pushing myself to do things I never thought possible.
“Keeping your emotions and thoughts bottled up can hurt more than the disease itself” – Josh’s story
To anyone battling UC, or any invisible illness, I want you to know: You are not alone.
“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 took a long, long time for me to learn to only take on one task at a time and start living in the slower lane” – Sue-Ellen’s story
I’m still working 2 part time jobs (hope to stop soon), have a reasonably healthy diet and regularly exercise (swim 1-2km most days, gym twice a week, walk, and go on the occasional bike ride). My health is pretty good and manageable. We are now empty-nesters and enjoy going on regular camping trips with our camper. We also enjoy bushwalks and ocean swims.