My Story:

Crohn's disease

Hi my name is Sarah Brocker, I am 20 years old and have Crohn's Disease. I am working very hard to reduce the stigmas associated with IBD and show people how feeling sick on the inside doesn't always mean looking sick.

Eight years ago, when I was in the sixth grade, I was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease. It took me a lot of time to accept that I had a disease that doctors don't really know anything about nor can they cure, but once I accepted my disease my goal was to never let it hold me back. Although I have missed a lot of social obligations from having Crohn's, I am never giving up on my dreams!

Through everything I have been through I have leaned on my supportive parents, three brothers, and most importantly my not-so-social dog, Lucy. I also have the world’s most supportive boyfriend, Will, who takes care of me while I’m at school. Most 21 year old guys can’t take care of themselves much less their seriously ill girlfriend, so I’d say I’m extremely blessed. I have been on a lot of different medicines and been to a lot of different doctors, but to me those things are normal. When people ask me if I am okay, my typical response is, "Well, I'm hanging in there..."

In the 8 years I've had Crohn's Disease, I have had 4 surgeries, an ostomy and only been in remission for about 6 months. Despite having the best care, we can't seem to find a way to beat my Crohn's. I am definitely not the usual case, but who do you know that has a normal case of Crohn's Disease? No I'm serious about this, everyone's case is unique and no two people have exactly the same disease, It's crazy!

I don't know about you, but I can be in the hospital and feeling like I'm dying and still not look sick. It's definitely a both a blessing and a curse.... simultaneously. I'm all for looking good, but sometimes people don't believe how sick I am because I don't look it, but I guess I'll take it. I would like to say that I'm normal, but the things in my life are anything but normal, and ya know what, I'm okay with that. So feel free to read as much or as little as you like and ask any questions you may have. I am not a doctor and I am not an expert (well I sort ofam) but I've been through a heck of a lot, and I want to help!

Follow Sarah’s Blog: http://notsonormallife.weebly.com/

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