Today is World IDB day. Before 2013, I couldn’t tell you what it was, or how it affected people who have it. Now, unfortunately I have several family members and friends who have been diagnosed with IBD and due to involvement with the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, I have met many other people who are battling IBD.
Per the CDC, IBD is: “Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term for two conditions (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis) that are characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Prolonged inflammation results in damage to the GI tract.” Sounds simple, right? It is not. It is painful, it is life altering and it can be deadly.
In 2013, my youngest son was diagnosed at age 22. We hit the learning curve very quickly as within a month he was rushed to surgery with a condition known as Toxic Mega Colon. His colon had perforated and it was removed. That was only the beginning of his 9 year battle. After five surgeries, two near exsanguinating bleeds, 3 biologics, 20+ hospitalizations and too many tests to list, he is still battling this debilitating disease and it breaks my heart to see him struggle and suffer.
This year the hashtag for World IBD Day is #ibdhasnoage — IDB has no age. It attacks the young and the old but most often diagnosed between 15-35. It has no age and attacks men and women alike worldwide.
They have treatments: Steroids that cause weigh gain and fat deposits on various parts of your body, even a condition that’s called “moon face,” when where the fat lies changes and makes your face appear rounder and wider; biologics which suppress your immune system and leave you susceptible to serious infections, cardiac issues, joint pain, and even certain cancers. Today, I know more, than I wish I did but the most important thing I know is that – THERE IS STILL NO CURE.
If you know someone with IBD, offer your support, don’t judge what they eat, how active they are or say “you don’t look sick.” Believe me when I say they would not wish this on anyone.
Chronic Illness: you don’t get it until you get it.
https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/what-is-ibd
More of his story here: https://emyloomwordswovenwithinmyheart.com/2017/05/19/villains-and-superheros/
Image courtesy of: worldibdday.org