What was your most embarrassing moment with IBD?
Living with IBD can lead to some pretty awkward moments, but sharing them can bring relief and even a few laughs. This is a safe space, free of judgment, where your stories can offer comfort and solidarity to others going through similar experiences.
So, whether it's a cringe-worthy mishap or a blush-inducing flare-up, feel free to share. Your courage helps break down stigma and builds a stronger, more supportive community!
My most embarrassing moment with IBD was when my daughter was in 6th grade (she is 29 now). I chaperoned her 6th grade field trip to see the Detroit Tigers baseball game downtown. I thought I was prepared lol what a mistake. Even though I was in remission, I was cautious about what I ate the day before and I got up extra early that morning to make sure that I was done using the bathroom before I left for the school. Even at the school I used the restroom to "just make sure I was ok". But I'm sure you all can relate that when a restroom isn't available that is when you need one desperately. We were on a full school bus of 6th graders and chaperones, not an empty seat. Everything was fine. I was talking with a friend of mine who was also a chaperone and then 20 minutes into the ride, BOOM! Just like that I needed to go, and I need to go right now! I stopped mid-sentence and walked quickly up to the bus driver. I told her I have UC and I need to get off the bus right now. She told me to take a deep breath and to clench my butt cheeks. She pulled into a fast-food restaurant, and I quickly existed the bus. All those kids (and parents) watched me run for the building. I stayed in the bathroom for almost 20 minutes. My friend came in to check on me and I told her to tell the bus driver to leave. I would find my own way home. I felt so bad for my daughter that she had to watch me get left behind. I called my angel of a next-door neighbor, and she picked me up right away. She talked me into going to the game and drove me there. My daughter was so excited when she saw me. That was the last time I ever took a school bus on a field trip. I always made up an excuse so that I could drive myself and meet the group wherever we were going.
oh dear! How embarrassing and terrible that sounds like, especially after all your preparation and cautiousness. IBD really is so sneaky and mean! I'm so glad that you had an angel next door that you could call, and that you were able to go to the game and (hopefully) enjoy that time with your daughter. It certainly sounds like your daughter appreciated and loved having you there. What a great idea to come with alternative driving arrangements for future field trips! Driving yourself sounds like the best of both worlds - you still get to go on the field trip, but you can take a bathroom stop if needed! Thanks so much for sharing your most embarrassing moment with IBD! -- Warmly, Christine (Team Member)
the most embarrassing moments are definitely the moments when i have to explain my diet. it is difficult for people to understand what exactly i cannot eat and it is always so awkward. last time i had to explain my diet to my coach in my sport because i am going to a trip with them, and he thought it was a good idea to make fun of me in front of all the other kids. why can't people be a little more empathetic?
Hi
. I don't even know what to say about a coach who would ridicule someone about what is necessary to control a medical condition. I do know that I believe most people are decent and see actions like that for what they are - someone in a position of authority or power trying to raise themself up by bringing someone else down. The hope is that others on your team who see this for what it is will learn to be more empathetic. Please know that there are people here who have been there and understand - this community is here for you. Best, Richard (Team Member)
