“So many people will support you through this journey” – Jennifer’s story
In mid 2023, I became incredibly ill. I wasn’t attending school and was hardly able to leave my bed. At first, the medical professionals believed I was feeling this way because of a mental health problem, but I knew that there had to be something else that was causing the symptoms I had. I pushed through and organised appointments with a gastroenterologist, who initially checked me for gastroparesis (which came back negative). I became more unwell, with symptoms becoming so challenging that I went to the emergency department. In 2024, my specialist decided to conduct full scopes, blood tests and stool tests. I was told that my symptoms gave me a 50/50 chance of IBD or cancer. I was in year 12 at the time, trying to gain the best ATAR possible, but hearing this made it nearly impossible. Fortunately, I had my friends and partner there to support me, as well as my family which made everything less scary.
Once diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in mid-2024, I felt relief but also shock. I was glad that it wasn’t cancer, but terrified as to what the diagnosis means. I knew a bit about the condition but not enough to know that a diagnosis wasn’t a life-or-death situation. I was terrified that my life would be cut short, that I could no longer eat the foods I wanted, and that I wouldn’t be able to study medicine, my dream occupation. After being diagnosed, I joined CCA and learned just how manageable this condition can be. I received medication which initially helped to manage my symptoms, and went on a more “wholefood” diet, which was tricky at first. Over time, my lifestyle started returning to normal. I was finally able to attend school, go out for lunch and play sport again.
After being on the medication for six months I had a flare up, which was scary as I spent so long with therapists and specialists getting my life back together. I ended up undergoing somewhat invasive treatment, as well as a change to my medication. I started immunosuppressants which was scary for an 18-year-old to be on. I was mainly worried as I am undertaking a Bachelor of Nursing, aiming to get into undergrad med after, and being immunocompromised made me believe that this future was not possible. I am currently coming out the other side and am realising that no matter what my condition is doing to me, I am able to function, perform clinically in nursing and live an active lifestyle.
During this period, I developed mental health issues. I was worried about what people at school would think of me, and whether they’d discuss why I had been absent for so long. Once I returned to school, the only people who knew of my condition were my teachers and close friends. Everyone else was unaware. I was worried that I was being judged, but everyone is struggling with different things. If anything, they weren’t judging me but were concerned about my wellbeing. I play netball and was worried about the same problem with my teammates. Yet everyone was so understanding and accommodating.
Throughout this process I have learnt that people care about you and are there to support you. Being diagnosed at such a young age does not mean that everything you have planned in the future will go to waste. It becomes something I wil be able to relate to when interacting with my future patients. Although it was difficult, so many people connect with what you’re going through, and will support you through your journey.
I am now so much better, healthier and am enjoying life!
Stay strong and safe out there, and make sure you trust your gut!