Just hang on...

By micayc

2 min read

Hello my name is Ann. I have had CD for over 36 years. I had one bowel resection in 1993 (one of the worst operations). I was lucky to go into remission for several years after that.

My disease has always ruled my life with my many flare ups over the years. I had almost timed stays at the hospital for many of those years. Every 3 months, ten days each. Jello and nasty broth, or what they referred to as "broth". I have been on most of the medications that have been available over the years. I am on medication for depression and anxiety right now along with Welchol for the CD. Depression has been the latest demon in my life and it is a killer. I deal with a lot of body pain also. Between the depression pain, yes depression causes physical pain, and the awful pain with the crohn's bouts, I can be a real mess at times. I have some damage to my spine and neck also. 3rd stage arthritis. I have had a few vertebra fused to relieve some pain. I’ve also been told I have Fibromyalgia. I fluctuate between diarrhea and constipation, both very painful! I am told now I also have IBS.

I have bad and good days. I don’t look sick so I don't think people see or know how sick I really am. Along with diabetes, high blood pressure and neuropathy in my feet and hands, I am a basket case some days!

I am so happy to find this site. It is nice to find people who understand. Do not get me wrong, my husband is the greatest. That guy has done stuff no man should have had to have done for a grown person with no complaints at all!

I have been in a bunch of "oh so embarrassing" moments over the years. Mostly my husbands only complaint is I do not want to leave my home much. It is just safer to stay tucked in here with my 2 bathrooms and feel safe. I have been seeing a "shrink", LOL. He is awesome.My goal for 2017 is to try to get a grip on my outside life again.

Thanks for listening to me. Anyone want to chat, I am here in PA. Ann

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SusanHU Community Admin
Hi Ann, Thank you for sharing your story with us and for being a member of our site. So many of our members find value from hearing from others who have similar experiences. Please keep us posted on your journey and let us know how we can help! Cheers, Susan (InflammatoryBowelDisease.net Team Member)
ahammons Member
I totally understand about the depression that's been hitting me bad the past few months as well as joint pain, hope you have a blessed 2017!!!
not found
Wow! Your story sounds just like mine. I was reading your post and had to double check I was not reading mine. I stay home a lot too. When I do go out I make sure I find where the bathroom is. Thanks for sharing your story and I'm here if you ever want to talk. Take Care, Pam.
belorac Member
I just got out of the hospital after ten days for pneumonia. I am telling you this because being on Remicade for my Crohns of 50 years has compromised my immune system and I have become a germ magnet. I constantly get UTIs. I have also been diagnosed with Connective Tissue Disease another autoimmune disease. So, besides for dealing with Crohns and having had nine surgeries (I will always have symptoms because of adhesions and short bowel) I have to deal with skin issues, osteoporosis, inability to be in the sun, and constant infections. Crohns does not only affect your guts but it has caused me to have so many other problems. I totally understand where your anger comes from. The thing that gets me the angriest is dealing with food. Everyone takes eating for granted. Life is all about food. I get so angry when people constantly discuss restaurants, luncheons, and do not understand that not everyone can take eating for granted. But, somehow thru the years I have survived and do my best to do things that do not involve food. Thanks for letting me rant. Does anyone else get upset about food? I would love to hear how you deal with it.
thedancingcrohnie Moderator & Contributor
I can so relate to your story. It's so nice to have you here in the community, and I'm so glad you shared your story. I too have had embarrassing moments and times where I simply do not want to leave the house. You aren't alone and you always have a community here to lean on. Wishing you the best always! Always dancing, Elizabeth (team member)