Colitis and me…

Late last year at the age of 20 I was diagnosed as having Ulcerative Colitis and IBD, both of which I wasn’t familiar with but the diagnosis has honestly changed my life.

Before UC, I went where I wanted, when I wanted, without a care in the world but now things are different. When I walk out the door, I take my anxieties with me.

In January I endured the first severe ‘flare up’ of my symptoms, which left me even more terrified of the condition. Blood loss, very frequent visits to the bathroom, drastic weight loss and fatigue. UC was taking over my life and I was hospitalised but after a few days of rest, painkillers, fluid and a mountain of other tablets including steroids I got back on my feet and back to work, although I was now taking over 20 pills a day to manage my condition. These were reduced over the next month. I only take 16 or so at present.

Today, I have good and bad days, mostly good. However as I write this I haven’t had a very good day, pains and more bleeding. Everyday is different, I’m trying to continue leading an active life with the support of my family, as without them I would have crumbled completely.

The process I have been through since my diagnosis in November 2013 has been rough. However, when I search the condition and read the stories of those who are also living with UC, I am hopeful.

Ladies, UC is awful and sometimes embarrassing but remember we’re still beautiful and life goes on.

To date, I still have met nor have I spoken with anyone with the same condition. I would love to hear your story. I hope Colitis can do at least one positive thing for me, it could introduce me to you!

Thank you for reading.