50 Years of Crohn's
When I was first diagnosed, it was called ileitis. I was 17 years old and had no clue how serious this was. There were two treatments, Prednisone and surgery.
No one understood my Crohn's
No one really knew about my disease. Even my parents never understood. I spent over 30 years on and off steroids, had three resections, obstructions, fistulas, hernias. In total I have had about 10 surgeries.
The toll of living with Crohn's disease
All of this has taken a tremendous toll on my body. I have osteoporosis, connective tissue disease, adhesions, short bowel syndrome. As I get older, I am unable to tolerate more foods that I can eat. Eating has become something I dread. Always scared of what will happen.
I have to plan out everything I do around food. I will not eat unless I am home or very close to it.
Most people, despite my trying to explain my situation, never get it. I am so tired of being on the outside of conversations, plans, etc.
Support from family makes all the difference
Thank god for my wonderful husband of 46 years. I don’t know how he has put up with all of this, but I am so grateful.
What I am trying to say is that despite all of my anger, I am blessed with four wonderful grandchildren who at the age of 8, 5, 4 and 2 understand what I can and cannot eat better than my so-called friends.
There are so many more treatment options these days
To those of you newly diagnosed, you are very lucky. Not because you have Crohn's, but because there are so many more options available for your treatment.
Thanks for listening.
Carol G
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