Over 50 years later.....

Go back to 1971; in college, newly married for 3 months, 20 years old, and going in for exploratory surgery. Yes, that was me. I had been suffering with upset stomach, diarrhea, cramping, etc. I passed it on as stress of trying to graduate college early, getting married, and life in general.

My Crohn's diagnosis

Finally, I gave in and went to my doctor. He had no idea and no test revealed any guidance. So, let's just get in there and see. When the surgeon got in there, gangrene was found and Crohn's was diagnosed. Closed up and high meds for the gangrene was the next step. Two weeks later, opened again for small bowel and part of colon removal took place. Five weeks later, 75 pounds, I went home to my new husband. What a trip that was for him.

There is no doubt in my mind that only by the Grace of God was I ever going home.

Many meds, more surgeries, many flare-ups, and here I am today at the age of 71 doing well. I taught high school math for 45 years, adopted a daughter (I was never allowed to get pregnant), have two beautiful grandchildren, still tutoring math, teaching at church, taking trips, and living life to the fullest!

Proceeding through the Crohn's struggles

Humira has worked well for me for many years. Yes, I still have flare-ups (one recently which has been a huge challenge), but I try to stay strong, accept what I can and cannot do, and am grateful for the many blessings I have been given.

Do not give up. Do not blame yourself. Do stay strong. Do everything you possibly can when you feel good. You are worthy and you are beautiful!