In Remission: Feeling "Survivor Guilt" When I Hear Others' Struggles

Once diagnosed with Crohn's disease, we technically all fall into the same category: Crohn's patients.

However, our journey while living with this disease does not all look the same. 

Each Crohn's journey is different

Some Crohn's patients will continue to have minor flare-ups and not even require a biologic to keep symptoms under control. Others, unfortunately, suffer every day despite their efforts and treatment methods, and some may pass away from complications of the disease.   

You may also be a patient who has endured extreme pain and sickness but is now in remission. I fall into that category, and despite being grateful for my progress with my disease and finally reaching remission, I can't help but feel a bit of "survivor guilt" when hearing about the struggles my fellow Warriors are facing on a daily basis.

Connecting with the IBD community

The amazing thing about the IBD community is that there are always people willing to share their personal stories with others to help them along the way.

I have found it extremely resourceful in speaking with other patients so that I could learn about their experiences on certain medications, tips when prepping for a colonoscopy, and just knowing that I am not alone in how I am feeling mentally and physically. 

I have also become a patient advocate myself, providing answers to patients' questions and guiding them along the way.  But, every time I read about someone's story who is suffering much greater than I am or ever was, I tend to feel guilty for doing so well. 

Feeling "survivor guilt" within the Crohn's community

My heart breaks for those who have endured such loss to their lives and who have suffered without a break from feeling the painful effects of Crohn's.

The feeling of "survivor guilt" sometimes affects how I feel about how I fit into the Crohn's community. I cannot relate to those who speak of ostomies or fissures, and I have never passed blood in my stool. 

Granted, I have had my fair share of Crohn's-related symptoms, such as joint pain, abscesses, fevers, mouth sores, and a partial colectomy to remove 12 inches of the bowel. But sometimes I feel ill-equipped to offer advice to those suffering much worse than I ever have. 

Sharing our own individual stories

I like to use my positive experience with my illness as a way to inspire others to keep going and not give up until they find a treatment plan that works for them; however, I know not all are that fortunate and for that, I feel extreme guilt.

What are your thoughts on "survivor guilt"? How do you manage to be a pillar in the Crohn's community when you don't feel like you are experiencing the same symptoms as some of the other patients?

Or, if you are one who is suffering greatly from Crohn's symptoms, how do you feel when you see others have more success with treatment options or not have as severe of a disease? I hope you'll share in the comments below.