MY STORY It's June of 2007. Life was great, I was healthy & "normal" (or so I thought). My social life was full, I was active & enjoyed my job, having the strength to complete my tasks thoroughly & in a timely fashion. In few words, I was enjoying a healthy life . Little did I know, that everything would change drastically, for many years ahead.

My first bout with digestive problems however, was when I was 17 years-old when I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 1997. From 1997 - 2001, I had frequent periods of remissions & flares that were well managed with medications. In 2001, I went into remission, it lasted for 6 great years. 2007 was when the disease revisited me in full force - making up for lost time.

Between 2007 & 2009, I had to quit my job because my symptoms were so severe. My social life diminished, as most of the time I was too tired or experiencing terrible symptoms that interfered with having any kind of fun. During these years, I searched for a doctor to help me get my disease under control w/out the use of harsh medications. By 2009, I was extremely sick & made an appointment at the Mayo Clinic. It was then that I was diagnosed with Crohn's colitis/Crohn's disease, pancolitis & osteoporosis.

Throughout the years that I struggled with constant health issues, my support system was significantly small. Most of my support was from 2 friends & a few family members. I found & continue to find much understanding & support from online forums, where I can interact with people who have the same disease & can relate.

Presently, I have healed the majority of my colon. My last colonoscopy indicated that a lot of my large intestine had healed. My GI doctor said that my disease appeared to be ulcerative colitis. I maintain a strict diet & am focused on full healing. I have come a long way by taking the road less traveled-refusing conventional drugs that have a high side-effect profile, & by modifying my life & diet as necessary.

my support system is still small & I've accepted the fact that most people will never understand an invincible disease. For my health & to keep my stress reduced, I choose carefully who I spend my time with. I refuse to let people steal my joy & effect me negatively by their ignorance. I stay in contact with people who sincerely love, care & support me.