How Crohn's already ruined my life at 21 years old.
I was going to double major and be done in four years with fairly good gpa. But during last fall after starting infusions, I had an abscess and was admitted to the hospital for a week. It made me fall behind on the classes for the major that was more marketable and now my life is ruined. Especially from the traumatic experience that I had while I was admitted there. They would bring in students and show me off to them like I was just another science experiment and subject. They really don't equipped you for about the mental health aspect of things. How it sets you back from achieving your goals on time. Also, how it makes feel like you are a freakshow that no one will hire in the workforce. IN SHORT, IT RUINED MY DREAMS AND MY COLLEGE GOALS. I REALLY HATE THIS DISEASE AND WISH GOD NEVER MADE ME A FREAKSHOW AND WISH I NEVER WAS BORN.
My heart goes out to you,
. I can hear how difficult and discouraging it has been for you trying to manage Crohn's. Having the hospitalization cause you to fall behind and upend your college goals is upsetting and it is understandable that you are feeling so discouraged. Is there a college counselor you can meet with to try to help you figure out a plan to still follow your college dreams, even if it ends up having to take a bit longer than you were originally planning? Also, please don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor or a mental health professional if you're finding you could use some more support. Managing a chronic health condition is a lot, and can take a toll on one's mental health, yet mental health often gets overlooked due to physical symptoms. I wanted to share this article one of our health leaders wrote about dealing with inflammatory bowel disease and mental health, https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/living/mental-health. This community understands the challenges and frustrations of Crohn's (and other IBDs) impacting and changing life plans. Please don't hesitate to reach out here any time. This community is also here for you! Sending you gentle hugs. -- Warmly, Christine (Team Member)
