Crohn's and Companionship

I used to be a real shady person. I didn’t tell people where I was going, and who I was dating. I thought I was cool in college. As I got older, finished college, and got a real job, I really found that being more down to earth was the way to go.

Appreciating support from others after a Crohn's diagnosis

When I got diagnosed with Crohn’s and spent an eternity in the hospital, I really got my mood together.

I really appreciated the amount of visitations from so many people. I received gifts, and cards of encouragement. I realized that I couldn’t be superficial. I had to appreciate who was around me and what they have done for me.

No one should battle Crohn's alone

I think it is important for anyone going through this disease to not battle it alone. You will have tough days, and you will have great days. That is just the way the cookie crumbles.

I am very happy to have met my wife. She had to understand how this disease affects my life every day. We have made lots of changes in our household.

Changes for living with Crohn's

One big change was moving to a house with more than one bathroom. You know as well as I know how important the bathroom is. I really wanted to be comfortable in my own house. I did not want to get into a situation that left me without a bathroom.

Another change we made in the house was eating more small meals, that are spread out. Dr. John Rombeau, a pioneer in colorectal surgery told me that we should be eating eight to ten small meals a day. That is very hard to do, but we really do work on following his recommendations.

The importance of companionship

Even if you are not in a committed relationship, reach out to someone. There is somebody out there who is dealing with the same situation as you are. I will tell you that this disease does play with your mind.  There are support groups, foundations, and websites that allow you to voice your frustration, pick up tips, and meet new friends.

Before I met my wife I dated someone who I met on the CCFA walk. She had an ostomy bag and thought nobody would want to spend time with her. We made it work for a while before going our own ways. Companionship is important!

Right now we all live in crazy times. Do yourself a favor. Find somebody new to talk to. I recently reached out to a new neighbor. He is a retired scientist and a widow. He was able to give me some great tips on working with a newly repaired knee. I know I made his day, and now we are friends.

Exercise is a great way to manage your Crohn’s. Remember, your stomach is a muscle. Keep it stress-free. Reach out to your friends, family. Check up on them as they check up on you. We all need it right now. I feel so much better with my Crohn’s since I started talking to people. Remember, you are not alone!