IBD Awareness,
“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.
“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.
“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.
“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…
“There will always be a way to achieve your dreams” – Jameson’s story
No matter what goals in life you may have, what hobbies and interests you are passionate about or what side of the globe you are on, there will always be away to achieve your dreams
“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.
“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.