“I still face challenges and anxiety around my disease, but I don’t let it take over my life” – Ellah’s story
I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis in October 2023. My symptoms were mild at first, a bit of blood in my stool here and there, but within four weeks my life completely changed. UC runs in my family, with around 6 close family members being diagnosed as well. My dad was also diagnosed in 2015 after he had symptoms and like myself, his life changed too. Within 6 months, he was in a coma due to many complications and things going wrong from surgeries. He now lives a healthy and happy life 10 years later with an ostomy bag.
Thankfully, after telling doctors about the seriousness of my dad’s diagnosis, I was rushed into hospital and saw multiple nurses, gastroenterologists and countless doctors who had me diagnosed and treated. A couple of colonoscopies, a lot of time off work, multiple medications and almost 20kg lost, I’m finally in remission as of August 2025. I have Infliximab infusions every 6 weeks which has saved my life. Mentally and physically.
It was super difficult trying to navigate life being diagnosed at only 17 years old. Even though I had so much support from doctors, my family and my friends, it was mentally and physically exhausting. Shedding light on this terrible disease is so important so people can realise how much of a struggle having IBD really is. At the same time, you can’t let it control your life.
I wouldn’t say that I’m back to normal. I still face challenges and anxiety around my disease, but I don’t let it take over my life.