December 1-7 is one week out of the year that is designated to Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness. So, as a voice for building awareness and being an advocate for myself and patients battling this debilitating disease, I wanted to share with you a few facts about these diseases. I know this is not crochet related, but the reason I started crochet was to help cope with my illness and also help pass the time in the hospital when I would be in for months at a time.
Crohn’s disease is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It affects the entire gastrointestinal tract and can affect anywhere from the mouth to the anus.
Ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine/colon, and rectum. Symptoms include Inflammation and ulcers, diarrhea, internal bleeding, fatigue, fevers, abdominal pain and cramping, reduced appetite leading to significant weight loss. Complications from this disease and sometimes treatments can be life threatening!
THERE IS NO CURE.
Oftentimes serious drugs like chemotherapies and biologics are needed and/or drastic surgeries are necessary to stave off the progression of the disease. Most people who suffer from these diseases can appear “normal” or “healthy” from their outward appearance, but are silently suffering from the inside. Many are among our friends, family, co-workers, community members – millions of people worldwide have some form of IBD!!!!
It is an invisible illness that oftentimes is not discussed in everyday company. Unless you know ME or someone who has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis you may have never heard of these before.
Have questions? Want to learn more? Ask me anything-I am an open book when trying to educate about this topic. One thing over the years I have learned is there is no shame battling illness and the stigma surrounding it. I may not look it, but I am battling this disease Every. Single. Day. It affects nearly every aspect of my life. I am not alone. I have so many friends suffering!! I am devastated to say people were lost by complications of this disease.
If we can educate just one person through our journey, through disease, then our suffering is not in vain and there is some purpose in all we have gone through and continue to face. Please, Please take time to learn more this week (and beyond) and understand how devastating Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis really is.
Crohn’s disease has impacted every aspect of my life including School, Employment, Relationships (Romantic or Familial), Socially, Financially, and Emotionally.
You can find more information about these inflammatory bowel diseases at CCFA.org
I’m sure I’ve told you. I lost my Mom 14 yrs ago to complications to crones. She went septic in surgery. I love that you are using your platform to teach and inspire. With anything it’s all about attitude. We never knew Mom was sick until the very End. My guess is she didn’t want us feeling sorry for her. She taught me to crochet. I give more than I sell. Bc that’s what she’s taught me. Please keep going. You are loved by friends family and Us. Keep Rocking!!!!
I also suffer from IBD and feel your pain. Pretty bad when you can only go to stores if you know where the bathrooms are. My daughter also has this but a lot worse than me and has needed surgery for a long time but, being on disability, no one wants to touch her. She already has had a bowel blow out and nearly died. Hope and pray someone will help her soon. You are an inspiration!
I don’t have Crohn’s or IBD but my sister in law did many years ago….probably in the mid 60s. She spent months at a time in the hospital and actually was let out for her wedding. She had numerous surgeries. She had her ‘lifeline’ meds administered 12 hrs a day hooked up interveniously but could at least do that at home each night. I saw how how real and debilitating these diseases are. And, she looked fine on the outside. I admire all you do in life inspite of your health difficulties. Much happiness to you in the future. Thank you for all you give to us with your crochet. I have made at least 5 of your different projects….steampunk cowls and BoHo scarves. You are very talented, Nadia.
Thank you for your honest, informative comments. Your courage is an inspiration to people who are suffering from this or other serious diseases. Also, your positive outlook and the generous way you share your crochet talent are amazing. God is certainly reflected in the way you use the gifts He has given you. You are in my prayers.
Blessings,
Carolyn
You are so adorable, and I absolutely love you tutorial videos. You have taught me so much. I just wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. You keep such a positive attitude for someone who suffers so much. I might not be there personally to give you a hug, but I’m sending you one through this message. 🤗 Keep you chin up, and remember that you are loved.
Dear Nadia,
I find your story so inspiring. I first found out about how this illness feels, first hand, when I was 13 years old. My father & his mother also suffer from Crohns. I spent nearly 9 months in the hospital at CHOP, or Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. After that, it was on & off for years.
Thank you for always being so honest about everything you go through. You make it easier for those who are also battling to feel comforted by your words.
Sincerely, Sande E.
ps~ Thnks also for all the amazing creations you share. I love that I can watch your channel & follow along because you teach so well. You should know that you make a difference in the lives of many 😘
Thank you Nadia for sharing more than just crotchet. This article and all info you share with the world reflects the love, humility and bravery within you. I am deeply touched. Keep shining! You are truly an Angel on earth. You will always be in our prayers. Much love and lots of hugs ❤️🌹
You are an inspiration! My husband has been suffering with Crohns for the past few years and it is looking as though our last option (surgery) will be needed. We hope and pray that the IV medication will work but it is our last hope. Thank you for your encouraging words. My husband doesn’t crochet, but I share your insight and advice with him. ☺️
Hi, Nadia. Thanks for sharing a few facts about Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Crohn’s disease is a form of inflammatory bowel disease and it affects the entire gastrointestinal tract and can affect anywhere from the mouth to the anus. Ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine/colon, and rectum showing Symptoms like Inflammation and ulcers, diarrhea, internal bleeding, fatigue, fevers, abdominal pain and cramping, reduced appetite leading to significant weight loss. This disease can’t be cured by any treatment only yoga, diet and Healing inspirational poetry like brendenpettingill.com,
can help you to get well soon. Hope all will be benefited from reading this post.
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