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Lifestyle
“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
“I hope to inspire others to find their own strength in adversity” – Baylee’s story
Through this journey, I’ve come to embrace my illness as part of my story, not the entirety of it. Each challenge has shaped me into a stronger, more compassionate person. I’ve learned that resilience is not just about enduring hardships; it’s about rising above them and using those experiences to inspire others. Today, I look back with gratitude, celebrating not only my achievements but also the strength I've discovered within myself. My journey with ulcerative colitis has taught me that I am capable of overcoming anything life throws my way, and I hope to inspire others to find their own strength in adversity.
“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.
“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.
“Some would say I’m unlucky to have gotten sick; I say I’m lucky I lived.” – Trent’s story
It’s hard to fathom how much you take living a “normal life” for granted. Being able to sit down and enjoy a meal, go to the footy on a Saturday, enjoy a beer without worrying about what’s to come, or just sit on the couch with your wife after dinner watching TV. It’s little things like this you don’t realise how good they are until you can’t do them.
“I want to be someone who talks about it” – Cody Ramsey’s story
"Losing 29 kilograms in a matter of weeks, surviving multiple surgeries and an eight month stint in hospital, he is set to make what may be the greatest comeback in rugby league history."
“You deserve to be heard” – Erin’s story
I thought I was honestly a goner. I want to show everyone that there is hope even when you feel like there’s no way out.
Testing my limits and inspiring others” Owen’s story
Yet, through this turbulent period, something changed within me. As my body slowly regained strength, so did my resolve. I knew I had been given a second chance, and I was determined to make the most of it. Less than two months after my total colectomy, I completed a sprint triathlon with my new ileostomy bag, finishing 8th in my age group. The victory was more than just a physical achievement; it was a testament to my willpower and a signal to myself that my journey was far from over.
“Looking at the bigger picture is vital” – Katie’s story
When I was a teenager, I didn’t have these kinds of conversations, and I think that’s part of why my diagnosis took longer than it should have. A lot of people with Crohn’s disease keep their symptoms to themselves out of fear or shame, and I hope that by sharing my story, I can encourage others to be more open about their struggles.
“Nothing compares to poor health as a stark reminder of what truly matters” – Kelsie’s story
Being "fearless" isn't just about bouncing back after health setbacks; it's about having the guts to dust yourself off and keep pushing forward. It's about gaining the confidence to live life fully, to build resilience, and to embrace the twists and turns that come with health challenges. That is where the true strength lies.
“Thankfully I received that amazing gift”: Transplant Australia Football Club player and Chairman Ante Kelic
"It can be powerful for people to see recipients with similar interests and passions, who have come out the other side."
“Treat everyone as a human being, not a textbook case.” – Sara’s story
She provided me with great advice – the basis of which was my focus and energy should be on getting through the day. I try not to worry about what this disease could do to me. I just worry about what it’s doing right now, and how I’m going to better it today.