Overcoming IBD obstacles…and traveling the world

I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis on December 23, 2009—a day my life changed forever. I went from a healthy and active 14-year-old to a teen with some very concerning symptoms: frequent and sudden onsets of stomach pain, exhaustion and the constant urge to use the bathroom. The diagnosis of a blistered, swollen, large intestine was both a relief and an added stressor. But my diagnosis was just the beginning of my journey. For four years, I was constantly looking for—if not rushing to—the nearest bathroom. Avoiding pizza, spicy foods, certain fruits and vegetables. Swallowing upwards of 15 pills a day. Missing out on school, athletics and memories with friends. Instead of being a real teenage girl, I was a full-time patient. Although ulcerative colitis held me back from living my life to the fullest, it also made me a fighter. Another round of medications? I could handle it. A relapse of symptoms or flares? No problem. I was fighting a losing—one I continually convinced myself I could win. When I was a freshman in college and living away from home, my family and my doctors, symptom management started to become impossible. Studying heavier coursework, making friendships and trying to become an independent young adult was increasingly difficult, so when I went home for Thanksgiving, my Boston Children’s Hospital gastroenterologist, Dr. Munir Mobassaleh, suggested a two-step, curative surgery. Choosing surgery Fighting so hard for so long, at first the idea of s...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Our patients’ stories Center for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) colitis college Dr. Craig Lillehei Dr. Munir Mobassaleh Source Type: news