What’s something you wish more people understood about living with IBD?
I wish more people understood that living with IBD is like managing a full-time job. It requires constant attention—from attending medical appointments and taking daily medications to carefully managing fatigue, stress, mental health, and diet to prevent flare-ups. When in an active flare, managing the pain and various debilitating symptoms associated with IBD takes up almost all of our energy. The condition’s unpredictability and constant need for management often forces us to cancel plans or limit activities, not because we want to, but because our bodies demand rest. We are NOT lazy. Whether we’re in an active flare or not, IBD is a persistent presence in our lives, affecting us in ways both visible and invisible.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone newly diagnosed with IBD?
My biggest advice for someone newly diagnosed with IBD is to find community. This disease can feel incredibly isolating, as few people truly understand its challenges unless they’ve experienced it firsthand. Connecting with others who have IBD creates a sense of belonging and makes the weight of the diagnosis easier to bear. Having a support system that truly gets it is invaluable—lean on those connections, and let them help you navigate this journey.
As someone with IBD, what’s one thing someone (a friend, family member, partner, teacher, doctor, etc.) has said or done that made you feel supported or understood?
One of the most meaningful gestures of support I’ve received is when someone accompanies me to my doctor’s appointments. Many people with IBD struggle with medical trauma or fear that their symptoms won’t be taken seriously by healthcare providers. Having a trusted friend or family member by my side—whether for a routine check-up, a four-hour infusion, or even an ER visit—helps ease that anxiety. Not only does it provide comfort, but it also ensures that I have an advocate in the room when I’m not being heard. Plus, when loved ones witness the realities of IBD firsthand, they develop a deeper understanding of what I go through, which makes me feel even more supported and understood.
What’s one way (big or small) you’ve advocated for yourself as an IBD patient that you’re proud of?
An act of self-advocacy that I’m particularly proud of as an IBD patient is asserting to my doctors that I am the expert on my own body; I know myself and my body better than anyone else. Medical literature may define typical symptoms of a flare-up, but personal experience doesn’t always fit neatly into those definitions. I’ve learned to trust my instincts—if I notice early warning signs of a flare that aren’t medically recognized, I push for tests and treatments based on what I know about my own patterns. Challenging the notion that "textbook cases" define every patient has helped me receive better care, and I’m proud to have stood up for myself in that way.
What’s your favorite hobby or fun activity?
My favorite fun activities include going to stand-up comedy shows and going to concerts/live music events. There’s nothing better than experiencing the energy of a great performance in person!
What is your favorite way to relax or unwind?
My go-to way to unwind is listening to music and getting lost in Spotify rabbit holes—it’s the perfect way to discover new artists and sounds while calming the mind.
What’s your favorite song, band, or musical artist?
Some of my favorite artists and bands are Chase Atlantic, The Neighbourhood, Magdalena Bay, Tame Impala, Mobley, Carpetman, Ashley Sienna, and THEY.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
If I could have any superpower, I’d choose the ability to heal—it would be incredible to take away pain and suffering, both for myself and for others.