“Crohn’s is challenging, but with the right support and treatment, it is possible to live a full and happy life.” – Rebecca’s Story
I first started noticing symptoms of Crohn’s disease back in Year 12 of high school (at age 18). At the time, I didn’t even know what Crohn’s disease was, I just knew something was wrong. I was embarrassed to tell my family or friends that I was having constant diarrhea, and I tried to brush it off. As exams got closer, I assumed it was just nerves.
But then things got worse. I was vomiting, losing weight rapidly, and often had to leave school because I was too unwell. I remember being sick outside the front of the school: it was humiliating, but there was no way around it.
Eventually, I saw a doctor, had blood tests, and was referred to a specialist. After a colonoscopy and endoscopy, my family and I were told I had severe Crohn’s disease affecting both my small and large intestines. My body was shutting down, so we had to act fast. I was put on steroids (Prednisone) and Azathioprine. Unfortunately, Azathioprine didn’t work for me, so it was later changed to 6-Mercaptopurine.
Since then, I’ve had a few flares, but life has gone on. I am now 33 years old, married and have two beautiful boys.
I have my good and bad days like everyone, but I’m incredibly thankful for my specialists and the medications available today, without them, I wouldn’t be here.
Crohn’s is challenging, but with the right support and treatment, it is possible to live a full and happy life.
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