In 2018, my Crohn’s reached a breaking point. Meds weren’t working. Flares were constant. And my doctor finally said the words I had dreaded:

🩺 “It’s time for surgery.”

I was terrified. I had no idea what life would be like without my ileocecal valve. Would I feel better? Would I regret it? Would I even be me without this little piece of my body?

The recovery was brutal. The pain was worse than I expected. And my digestion? A whole new adventure.

But here’s the thing—I survived.

And while surgery didn’t “cure” me (because nothing cures Crohn’s), it gave me a fresh start. It gave me time before my next big battle.

Surgery is scary. But sometimes, it’s what keeps us fighting. And I’ll always keep fighting.

Stay Strong.

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I’m Kelly

Welcome to My Crohnstipated Life, a space where I share the raw, real, and often humorous journey of living with Crohn’s disease. From unpredictable flares to parenting while managing a chronic illness, this blog is a mix of personal stories, practical tips, and a whole lot of laughter—because sometimes, humor is the best medicine. Whether you’re living with Crohn’s, love someone who is, or just want a peek into the rollercoaster of chronic illness, I’m glad you’re here. 💜 Stay Strong.

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