Question:
I am a 20-year-old college student just diagnosed with UC. I recently
found this newsgroup and have to admit that while I find it helpful, it also
depresses me a bit. I was wondering, though, if there were any members of this
group who are in my situation, with uc or chrons affecting college, classes,
work, social life, etc. ? I am feeling pretty alone in this right now and
still asking "why me?" Aren't these college years supposed to be the best? I
am also wondering about my stress level and uc. My doctor says my type-A,
honors student type activity is o.k., but I've heard stress can cause uc (and
after that, flare ups) I am questioning whether I should still apply to law
school next year, given my newfound health problems.
Answer:
I am 22 years old, i have had crohn's disease for about 7
years. i has made college a challenge and i am lucky to say that i am
graduating this may.
this disease does not mean that you have to give up your dreams. one of
the people that i look up to is thoeren fluery, a right winger for the
calgary flames. he has been one of the all stars and is one of the best
players in the NHL. and he has CD. i wanted to go to medical school,
but thought that may be too stressful right now, but it doesn't mean
that i will never do it.
life is not going to be the same in college anymore. you may have to
stay home some nights, may have to skip a few things, may have to miss a
few more classes. but these challenges can make you a better person,
for dealing with adversity while making your way through college - not
something everyone can do. inside you will always know that you were
the strongest person because you have something inside that makes your
day even harder before you even wake up.
you may have to change your routine, but it doesn't mean you have to
change your attitude. ostomies and surgeries and drugs drugs drugs can
be depressing but they don't have to be... i have had them all, and i
would say the key is attitude. that is all you need. it is your tool -
to staying healthy and succeeding.
I think I can somewhat relate to your situation because I was diagnosed
with UC my junior year (I'm 25 now) of college, and haven't really been
able to have a
significant period of remission since. I took part in many activities
during college
(as it sounds you're doing), and I decided not to let the UC inhibit
me from
doing the things I enjoy. Although I certainly agree that stress can
exacerbate one's symptoms, I really believe that this disease has a mind
of its own and is mainly dictated by biology and bad luck (as opposed to
psychological factors). I have ofetn found that when I'm most stressed
out my symptoms are mild, and when I'm most relaxed my symptoms are
totally out of control (which is the opposite of what I'd expect). I
guess what I'm trying to say is that I think it's really important to do
the things you enjoy and to try not to let your disease limit you--I think
you'll be happier if you pursue all of your interests. In terms of
applying to law school, I say "Go for it!" I began a Ph.D. program last
year, and it's the best decision I've ever made.
