What inspired you to apply for the CCYAN Fellowship?
The CCYAN fellowship is an exciting opportunity to connect with people going through similar experiences spread all across the world. I wanted to share the unique circumstances that we all face battling the disease, while also learning from others about how they deal with various issues brought up by it. Going through the content by past fellows and others suffering from IBD inspired me to do the same to help people looking for resources online.
What’s something you wish more people understood about living with IBD?
I hope people realize that there is more than meets the eye! The disease is usually described as an invisible disability, and it requires significant effort to manage your day-to-day activities. Anyone suffering from IBD knows that it is pretty unpredictable and has an impact, both physical and mental, on us and the people close to us. It is important that we as patients, and also the people around us, acknowledge this to find a new “normal”.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone newly diagnosed with IBD?
One key piece of advice that I would like to share is to take the time and get informed about the disease. It will help you greatly in understanding what you’re going through and might also help ease off some of your apprehensions. It can also be helpful in communicating your symptoms to your medical team and getting you the right and effective care. And more importantly, learn to understand and trust the signals that your body gives you. You have to be your best friend first and foremost.
How has your experience with IBD shaped you (personally, professionally, or both!)?
It has been a story with greater lows than highs, but the lows do teach you a lot more than the highs. I have learned to adapt to the situation and make certain changes, such as, seeking help, asserting myself, making decisions independently, etc. Although we find ourselves constrained by factors beyond our control, we have to find ways to overcome them, and it can be deeply gratifying when you achieve your goals despite the hardships you’ve faced along the way.
What perspectives, topics, stories, or projects are you looking forward to sharing with the CCYAN community this year?
I am looking forward to sharing some of my stories and learning about how different each of our experiences can be. One area that I would like to concentrate on is how health policy can ease the burden of new patients and help them manage and overcome the disease better. We need greater awareness about the disease and the support that it requires from all stakeholders here in India, and it is high time we address this issue.
What’s your favorite hobby or fun activity?
My idea of fun is DIY! Building things from scratch or fixing things has always been something that I enjoyed doing.
What is your favorite book, movie, or tv series, and why?
My current favorite book is “Steve Jobs” by Walter Isaacson. The book takes you on a surreal life experience and has great timeless lessons. Having watched “Interstellar” in the theaters recently on its 10-year anniversary has again made it one of my favorite movies for its brilliant cinematography, epic soundtrack and wonderful storytelling.
What is your favorite way to relax or unwind?
My favorite way to relax would be to do nothing or more practically, make some coffee, and read a book.
What’s your favorite song, band, or musical artist?
My favorite song is “Waiting For The End” by Linkin Park, which is also my favorite band.