I Was Ready to Go Travel the World

Introduction:

20 years old — just diagnosed! I was a full time student at a UC school. Recently took time off of school to pursue my modeling career…. which was going great!!! I was ready to go travel the world, and this happened! WHY??

My Colitis:

I have been dealing with symptoms for about 3 months now… finally went to the doc 2 months into being a slave to the bathroom… took docs another month to correctly diagnose me. I was in and out of the hospital, lost 25 lbs (Im 5’9 and weigh 115 now- I wasn’t big to start with), and felt like I was dying. I have been on steroids now for a month. The pain is now under control (I still hurt but not so bad that I can’t stand and just want to cry all the time) , the bleeding is almost non-existent, and the symptoms have dramatically decreased. I have been sticking to a strict diet of white meats, cooked veggies and fresh juices. No dairy, gluten, processed food, or fatty foods; as any of these things make my pain way worse!!! Despite great improvement, I am still sick for a good 2 hours every morning, and am still losing weight.

Does this mean that I am still in a flare-up,

or is this how it will be forever?

This sickness has bee n one of the hardest things I have ever had to go through, and has made me appreciate good health. I am 20 years old, and a full time professional model. I also had a very active social life, and am in a long term relationship. I never ever thought that I would have to slow down my professional and personal life because of stomach issues. I am afraid to go out and get sick, and I’m afraid to travel to other countries for work for the same reason. Sometimes I wake up and It just doesn’t feel fair! Still having to learn how to adapt to this… trying everyday to stay positive, and realize it could be much worse.

written by “UC Student”

submitted in the Colitis Venting Area