Ben

Written by Ben Stapleford, CICRA Trustee

I was first diagnosed with Crohn’s disease age 16. My symptoms started relatively close to my diagnosis, but it took many different medical opinions before finally realising that I had Crohn’s. I remember the GP telling my mother and I that I’d have this for the rest of my life, which admittedly made me and my family very worried.

My diagnosis came at a time when I was studying for my GCSE’s, which meant that I’d miss several classes and was often playing catch-up. My focus was to achieve the grades required to study A-Levels and attend University. As the youngest of three siblings (including being a twin), it was difficult to miss out on vital education, friendships and interests but I realised early on that the focus was to achieve better health. 

After around 12-18 months of trying several medications, steroids and diets, my consultant eventually advised that I’d need surgery to remove a segment of my terminal ileum. This surgery was a stepping stone in my journey and allowed me to achieve remission. I managed to gain my weight back and return to a life that didn’t feel bound by Crohn’s. 

Fast forward to today, I managed to achieve my grades and graduated from university, achieving my early personal and professional goals. I’ve managed to maintain close friendships, travel the world and continue my passion for sports, including most recently running my first half marathon. 

Crohn’s is not a linear experience, and each person will find their own way of navigating their day-to-day. Looking back, I find it remarkable how resilient the human body can be in times of adversity. Perseverance and having an end-goal in mind has really helped me divert my focus.