What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone newly diagnosed with IBD?
To anyone newly diagnosed, please give yourself some grace. Know that there's going to be hard times ahead and you're going to experience things you never expected to deal with in your life. It's okay to have bad days. It's okay to ask for help when you need it and be transparent with loved ones about how you're feeling. Above all, don't forget your online IBD community is here for you!
How has your experience with IBD shaped you (personally, professionally, or both!)?
When I was younger I developed a severe blood/needle phobia. As a precaution, I was excused from countless science lessons in school. Since my diagnosis, I've tried to make up for lost time and learn more about the human body. I read pathology books and IBD research papers in my free time so that I can be a more informed patient.
What perspectives, topics, stories, or projects are you looking forward to sharing with the CCYAN community this year?
I'm hoping to bring some art opportunities into my CCYAN Fellowship! I am very interested in the topics of narrative medicine, biomedical communication, and medical illustration. One perspective I am excited to share is having an IBD while also battling blood, medical, and needles phobias.
What is your favorite book, movie, or tv series, and why?
My favorite movie is the Bollywood film Queen (2013) for its messages of independence and finding yourself. I feel like getting an IBD in my 20s stunted my independence, so I really connect with the main character’s journey. It also has one of my favorite songs ever - “Kinare”.
What’s your favorite song, band, or musical artist?
My favorite band is Enter the Haggis - a Canadian Celtic rock band with bagpipes and fiddles. I've been to four of their concerts and own way too many of their t-shirts.
What is your favorite hobby or fun activity?
I was an Irish step dancer for 11 years through high school and joined a Bollywood dance team for 5 years in college. This year, I'm hoping to rekindle my love for Indian dancing by starting classical Bharatanatyam.