Crohn’s Disease And Autoimmunity
I refuse to allow a Crohn's Disease diagnosis define my health.
I make decisions to change my life when I have no other choice. That’s when I finally do the hard work and change for the better. When I have nothing else to lose.
My first symptoms of Crohn's Disease began the evening of my Junior prom. Imagine dancing with your date and having to cut it short to dash to the closest restroom. I remember that night like it was yesterday.
"Maybe it's in your head," they stated.
This was what I heard after explaining my Crohn's Disease symptoms to my doctors and nurses. I'm certain many of you can relate to this response. Fast forward more than two decades later. I was told the same thing, only in different words.
I'm here to tell you that it doesn't have to be this way. As humans, we are intuitive and know our bodies better than anyone. It may take years to develop this "knowing", but it's there to teach us something.
I consider myself very fortunate because I'm not medicated for this autoimmune disease.
Many individuals need to be medicated because of different levels of severity and that's understandable. But, I'm here to tell you that a diagnosis doesn't define you.
Last month I went through many tests again. After having another CT scan, an upper GI and a colonoscopy, my results were in. The nurse called and said, "Everything looks fine, call us if you have any concerns."
I have yet to receive these medical bills, but I know they'll add up to be more than the results are worth.
The great news is that my Crohn's Disease is under control.
There aren't other underlying conditions that are of concern at this point. So, it's my job to take it from here. If I won't get the answers I desire, I will take initiative for my health and figure it out on my own.
IBS is diagnosed when answers can't be found. I believe we are what we eat and our bodies are fueled by the nutrients they're fed. My journey to health continues, one day of research at a time.
I should sometimes do things sooner, but only I know when the time is right.
Well, the time is here that I eat clean and take control of my health. Can I cut out or at least reduce my intake of gluten and dairy, plus follow a low FODMAP diet? Yes, I can. I'm willing to do what it takes to remain unmedicated for Crohn's Disease. Through diet and a healthy lifestyle, I hope to manage my symptoms and finally feel the relief of remission. This is the beginning of a new journey for me and it's my hope that I can inspire others to listen to their bodies. Each of us is unique, therefore, no two paths to wellness are exactly alike.
I invite you along on this journey of The 100 Day Project.
100 blog posts in 100 days. There will be times of triumph and times of struggle, but I will show up through it all. I would love to hear your thoughts along the way. Comment below!
38/100
Day 39: Traveling San Juan Islands
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SHOP LOCAL
- Natural Healthy Concepts in Appleton, Wisconsin
- Village Market in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
- Lubbert's Farm
- Park Ridge Organics
- I heard about Danielle Walker's journey of healing on Jenna Kutcher's Goal Digger Podcast
