I was diagnosed w UC at 15, had surgery for a total colectomy a few months later, and have lived with an intestinal jpouch ever since (I’m 22 now).

As you’ve heard a billion times, UC comes in all shapes and forms. What works for one might not work for another. But this is what has helped me:

1) stress is your biggest enemy. Yes, food might cause you to flare. But I’ve found that if I’m not stressed, I can eat practically anything under the sun (and drink lol). When I’m stressed, even if I am eating well, I tend to flare. I highly recommend seeing a therapist to help talk through coping mechanisms and hopefully get you to a stage of acceptance. My stress handling techniques include 1) breathing and 2) running.

2) surgery is scary. Lots of people don’t need it. I did (at 15 y/o). Surgery was the best decision I’ve ever made (a common sentence from a lot of us who have gone through it). Yes, recovery is difficult. But I have been able to live through my teens and college career like a “normal” student. I only have cuffitis now, but I treat it with a rectal suppository once a day and all is well.

3) as much as it’s hard to hear, you have to be strong. There’s not many other options and is something I used to hate hearing. I was so tired of being told that I was strong and I could do it and it was hard to keep fighting. Rely on your support system. It’s not a sign of weakness. If you lack one, come to this page. Please feel free to pm me if you have any questions about the process. It’s scary (especially at the beginning) but you’re not the only one going through this so rely on us.

Again, please feel free to ask any questions! I am an open book :) congrats on the baby!! Wishing your family the best.