Teen Takes on Crohn’s and
Lives Life Beyond Boundaries -- You Can Too
Whether you’re just
diagnosed or have been living life with Crohn’s for some time, it is always
helpful to learn from others in your shoes. Read the tips provided below from
Ally Bain, a
In
2004, when Ally
was 14, she was denied access to a retail store bathroom which led to a
humiliating accident. Ally and her
mother approached Kathleen Ryg (Illinois State
Representative) to sponsor a bill which would enable others with CD and related
conditions be provided with access to the facilities, regardless
of whether or not it is a public restroom.
In 2005 The Restroom Access Act, commonly known as Ally’s Law, was
unanimously passed in
Ally’s Tips For
Reaching Beyond the Boundaries of Crohn’s Disease
Have a solid and complete support system
I have several
people who are my biggest supporters: my parents, my brother, my friends, and
my doctor. Each one of them brings a different source of support whether it is
comfort, admiration, good care giving or simply being by my side when I need it
most.
Maintain a positive attitude
I try to find the
best in every situation. I don't want to feel like my Crohn's disease is
holding me back in any way. I spend time with my family, hang out with friends
and I enjoy school. I also try to find things and hobbies to relax myself when
I am not feeling well or need a source of relief. I love art, writing poetry,
reading and just dancing and hanging out with my closest friends.
Tell teachers, coaches and colleagues
At the beginning of
school, I make sure all of my teachers are aware of what is going on with my
disease. I explain what Crohn's disease is, ways to help my school day stay
stress free and make it known that whenever I need to use the restroom, it is
rather urgent. I also have my school
counselor or nurse send e-mails to all of my teachers explaining my condition
and ways to help me when I need it. I make sure my teachers know that if they
have questions, I am willing to share answers. I prefer they know a lot, rather
than be naive and risk me being uncomfortable.
Whether it be school or work, if the appropriate
people are informed, it can make managing day-to-day symptoms easier and limit
their burden on your daily life.
Have a good patient-doctor relationship
Talk to your doctor
and he or she will talk to you. I tell my doctor everything he needs to know
about my disease, even when it might be embarrassing. His attitude toward my disease
helps me to stay positive and strong. I trust in his care and I know we are in
this together.
Think of all the things you can do
With Crohn’s, I
have learned just how strong and tenacious of a person I am. I have learned who
my true friends are and how much my family cares for me. I have also realized
that I learn something new with each person I meet. I feel like my work with
Ally’s Law helps others and makes a difference for people living with this
disease. I am very proud of myself, my family, my
friends, my doctor, and each and every person that helped me get the law
passed. I hope everyone with Crohn’s will stay strong, be positive, and know
that one voice can really make a difference.