Surgery
“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.
“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.
“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.
“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…
“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.
“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.
“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."
“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."
“If you feel something isn’t right with your body or your child’s, stick to your guns and don’t back down” – Kelly and Xavier’s story
Our family has always been there to support us. During our hospital admissions, they’d be there in a heartbeat and would do everything they could to keep us, and Xavier entertained. In saying that, no one in the family has had IBD, so we’re working out what we can do together.
“I’ve managed to do so many things I wanted to do” – Tom’s story
At one point I was super low, and I got out of it. I thought I'd never be able to perform again. I'd never be able to travel, and I wouldn't be able to leave the house. I've been able to do all of that. I've managed to do so many things I wanted to do – that I never thought I could do. By sharing how I feel, I hope that people will draw some hope from that.