Let’s welcome this weeks warrior, Molly!Â
Hi, my name is Molly. I was born and raised in Vermont, but have called Atlanta home for the last 10 years and still do.Â
I have ulcerative colitis (UC), and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). I was diagnosed with UC in 2012 at the age of 23 and my IBS diagnosis came about a year later. As soon as I began seeing blood in the toilet, I went to my primary care doctor, who referred me to a gastroenterologist who sent me for a colonoscopy. The results of my first colonoscopy diagnosed me with ulcerative colitis. When my GI symptoms persisted, despite a slight decrease in colon inflammation, I was then diagnosed with IBS. Â
My chronic illness impacts all aspects of my life from the obvious like my health to my finances, career options, relationships and everything in between. Daily I face the uncertainty of life with two unpredictable conditions.
My journey with IBD and IBS has taught me:
- that you never know what someone else is going through.
- to cherish every moment and never take health for granted.
- the power of community.
- how strong I am.
- who my real friends are.
- to advocate for myself and my community.
- to put my health first.
I enjoy group fitness, walks, bike rides, traveling to new places, spending time with family and friends, blogging @betterbelliesbymolly, and advocating for the IBD and IBS community.
My best advice for other IBD and IBS warriors:
-Learn about your condition.
-Get connected with others with your condition (@betterbelliesbymolly)
-Advocate for yourself.
-Give yourself grace.
           
      
      
Thank you for all you do to educate and fight for the IBD community! You are an amazing patient advocate, and inspiration!
Be sure to give her a follow on IG @betterbelliesbymolly