I had to write this post because I finally posted my blog on my personal social media and announced to everyone on there that I have Crohn’s disease. I have people on there that I talk to lots and some people I have not seen for 20 plus years!

All I can say is WOW, I have been totally overwhelmed by the response I got, I had so many messages from people that I have not seen or spoken to in years with messages of support and some messages from people who also have Crohn’s, another IBD or an autoimmune disease. Basically living with invisible chronic illnesses! It so lovely to hear from people that I had not spoken to in so long but also the messages of thanks I got for not being afraid to talk about it raising awareness and not making it a taboo subject. I also received quite a few messages on Instagram from people I do not know, as I set up a MumsBowel insta page to go with my blog. I had a message for a lady who is really suffering with lots of symptoms but not getting anywhere with the doctors. The only advice I could give was to not give up and keep pushing, it was horrible to think how many people are suffering without help and how lucky that I had actually been with getting diagnosed fairly quickly.

I will make sure I am positive through my journey and hope that my blog can help people who are struggling. I am now committed with my blog, to help raise more awareness about Crohn’s disease. I have made some promises to myself, to make more time for me like reading, audiobooks, listening to podcasts, relaxing baths etc. I have realised very quickly that I was not looking after myself in terms of self care and taking time out for me. I think this quote is perfect for what I mean – “To be a good parent, you need to take care of yourself so that you can have the physical and emotional energy to take care of your family.”
Michelle Obama

So a big thank you to everyone who has read my blog, sent me messages, shared my story, phoned me, sent texts and not made me feel like they are giving me sympathy as that is the one thing I was not looking for. I do not need sympathy, I am alive, have three beautiful children and a husband. We have a roof over our heads and food on the table so I never want sympathy, just an understanding from people that sometimes I might not be ok.

It is ok to not be ok!