ulcerative colitis
“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 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.
“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.
“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.
“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."
“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.
“Do not suffer in silence” – Adam’s story
The start of my IBD journey has been highly traumatic and has been filled with anxiety and stress. Just getting the diagnosis was all that I needed to settle me. I urge anyone who is symptomatic and who does not have a diagnosis to push your GP or go to emergency to get the answers you need. No-one should have to live in fear about not knowing what is happening in their body.
“A hard pill to swallow” – Harvey’s story
“A hard pill to swallow” – Harvey’s story It all began at Easter 2022. Harvey had Covid-19 for the first…
“Going through all of this has made me more empathetic towards my patients” – Rebekah’s story
I’m in my final year of studying to become a nurse/midwife. Going through all of this has made me more empathetic towards my patients because I have been where they are.