What’s something you wish more people understood about living with IBD?
The IBD experience isn’t a monolith! While many people with IBD experience similar symptoms, additional comorbidities and complications that are often associated with IBD can look different for everyone. Remission can even be different depending on the individual. Also, while IBD can be difficult on the body physically, the effect it can have on one’s mental health is often the most challenging. People with IBD are constantly having to adapt, cope with their diagnosis, expect the unexpected, and still show up for themselves and their communities every day.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone newly diagnosed with IBD?
Look online for IBD spaces and communities that you resonate with. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people who are also going through similar things as you! It can be intimidating at first, but having a community that gets it can make a huge difference in feeling less isolated and alone.
How has your experience with IBD shaped you?
I think my experience with IBD has made me a more empathetic person. IBD is an invisible disease/disability, and living with a condition that people can’t see when they look at me made me even more aware of the fact that you never truly know what somebody might be going through. Also, my experience with IBD has made me more appreciative of the little things in life that bring me joy and peace.
What’s your favorite hobby or fun activity?
I LOVE going to see my favorite artists in concert! Another fun activity that I enjoy and appreciate is having movie nights with my brother.
What is your favorite way to relax or unwind?
Making a nice hot cup of tea and reading a good book… or watching Netflix. Either or, but always with tea!
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
I would want the power to heal. It’d be really amazing to be able to alleviate people’s pain from any physical or mental ailments.