Hi. My name is Tom.

By tsantz52

1 min read

I was diagnosed with Crohns, over thirty years ago. I have had at least five bowel obstructions, and one surgery, back in January, 2000. My Ilium, is partially gone, and several feet of intestine. I am in "remission" supposedly, but have been feeling symptoms lately. When someone asks me how I am feeling, I don't know how to answer anymore. I am always fatigued. I can't tell anymore if my symptoms are worsening, or staying the same. I fear that I will need more surgery, eventually, and have had more Colonoscopies, than I can remember. I feel defeated, and tired.

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SusanHU Community Admin
Thank you for sharing your story Tom - we're sorry to hear that you're dealing with all of this. I wanted to tell you that you are not alone though, many of our community members understand the feelings of defeat and fear that you mention and are definitely familiar with the fatigue. Have you considered having a conversation with your doctor about their goals for your treatment plan and discussing the symptoms you're still feeling in "remission"? Sometimes those types of conversations can help - or at least show you when you might want to consider other viewpoints. We're here to listen or to offer support if you need it. Please keep us posted on your journey and thank you for being a member of our community! - Susan (InflammatoryBowelDisease.net Team Member)
rivi_rkr Member
If the person who asks me know I have Crohn's I usually answer by saying what kind of day I'm having, good day, bad day, so so day. If they are someone who doesn't know nor do I want to know, answering with an OK works just fine. "OK" has so many different meanings and if the person is very preseptive they will read your body language and know how you mean it. Not to be negative but alot of people just ask the question to open a conversation and don't really pay attention to your answer anyway. I am 53 and was diagnosed with Crohn's when I was 12 , had a permanent Ileostomy when I was 19 , had to go on disability when I was 33 and have had over 30 surgeries. Something that I have learned over the years is more times than not I have made a bigger deal out of things like that than I need to. You have far to many things to worry about in regards to your health than to let little things hang you up. "Don't sweat the small stuff" author unknown. Hope this helps you out
deannas7 Member
Thank you for sharing, Tom. I'm sorry to hear you're feeling defeated and tired. It's helpful to hear your story though because I know a lot of people (including me) can relate to how you're feeling. I will be praying for you for healing, relief, and rest.