“I learned how important it is to accept support” – Courtney’s Story

I’m Courtney, I’m 27 and from the UK. About three years ago, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease, but after a recent flare-up, I was re-diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.

To raise awareness and funds for Crohn’s & Colitis UK and Crohn’s & Colitis Australia, I’ve set myself the challenge of running 100km in one day on May 19th (World IBD Awareness Day.)

When my symptoms first started, I was told, “You’re fine, you’re young, healthy, maybe it’s just gluten.” I ignored the signs for almost a year, hoping my body would fix itself. Eventually, the pain became unbearable, and I ended up in A&E with severe stomach pain, blood and nausea. After several tests, I was diagnosed with IBD and started steroids that same night.

I was lucky to have amazing IBD nurses and a supportive family in the UK who helped me through everything. I was put on an adalimumab injection, which completely turned my life around and helped me get back to the person I was before my symptoms started. Unfortunately, over time, my body became immune to that medication, and my symptoms returned.

Thankfully, the incredible Gold Coast University Hospital and IBD team here in Australia got me back to health quickly. I’m now on infliximab treatment, which is working extremely well.

About six months ago, I started running to keep active and decided to use it as a way to give back to the amazing charities that have supported me. This run is about showing others who may be struggling that with the right support, care, mindset, and treatment, you can live a great life despite IBD.

When I was first diagnosed, I was in denial. I didn’t treat my body the way it needed, with proper nutrition, rest, and stress management. Once I started making those changes, alongside my medication, everything improved. I also learned how important it is to accept support from charities, nurses, friends, and family. You don’t have to go through this alone.

This 100km run is also my way of giving back, to raise awareness and say thank you to the incredible Crohn’s and colitis charities that help people like me live full and healthy lives. 💜