Community Forum

It is easy to complain about the very real obstacles we face every day, and in fact, we need to do that as a way to deal with the stress.  I have posted complaints to this very forum, so I don't mean to minimize anyone's illness....

....but to look at things a different way, I thought I'd ask if any one can see some good that came from having their diagnosis?

For me, I'd say I learned a lot about myself, about strength, new ways to define what's important in life, and I marvel every day that my spouse stays with me - so I'm eternally grateful for him.  I've also learned about other people and it became clear who my REAL friends are.  If I hadn't had Crohn's, I may not be aware of these things.  What do you think?

 Reply posted for nickrystal.

Sure it iis very difficult road, even more so when poeple with no illnesses cant relate/understand.  It took a good 2 years to get diagnosed with UC, plus the very comprimised immune system it brings with.

I will say I found out how much I appreciate my Kids!!! I worked 5 - 7 days a week prior - now very PT,  5 or less days.  I found how much my kids have thrived with me being here every day after school & weekends & the like.  I found out things arent really immportant. We dont have cable so the tv isnt on & we do more together.  even if its just sitting & talking couse Im tired.  Found out what real friends are! How important it is to keep positive environment & people around you!  Less is more - even when origninally forced upon you.  God works in mysterious ways!

I also found that you ussually are more worried about how things will be. than you need to. Worring just causes me to be more tired.  Things have a way of working out, really.  I am blessed to have great kids & mom (grandma) who is closer than ever! Laugh more - its great Rx

 Reply posted for nickrystal.

i can try to speak for my husband. he was diagnosed 6 months after we were married in a whirlwind courtship. i never waivered from him during the hardest times. he learned what true love is and what being loved means. he also had the experience of raising our last child from birth to age 5 while i worked full time and then some. watching him grow into the funniest little boy has been the highlight of his life. it was hard work but he's happy for that special bond that usually only mothers experience. he's learned more empathy for others in pain and how to appreciate the good days.

after his current negative experience in the hospital, i'm sure he'll have a greater appreciation for life in and of itself.

 Reply posted for nickrystal.


I was sick for nearly 4 years without knowing why. I spent have my high school life in doctor's offices and hospitals. I was finally diagnosed at 17.
I guess the "good" thing to come out of being diagnosed was that I now had a name to what I was going through. My illness was no longer a mystery. I felt empowered and relived to know what it was I was dealing with.

I'm now in college and trying to balance school and my health. I'm doing much better now.

 Reply posted for nickrystal.

My disease has given me strength I never imagined, faith, more meaningful relationships, and overall appreciation for the good things in my life.  I really stop and think about how great a good day really is and take full advantage of those days or even moments.

 Reply posted for suzy.

The sick part has sucked, but I am enjoying the 20lb weight loss, didn't think I would ever get down to my current weight again.  I doing much better - 6-MP is my mircle drug - so I can start shopping for a new wardrobe.

On the serious side, I have seen what a wonderfully supportive husband I have.   He was pretty much a single parent to our infant daughter while I was at my sickest/in the hospital.  He was taking care of both of us and working a full-time job.

 Reply posted for nickrystal.

Yes.  When I was diagnosed/hospitalized for 20 days, there were a few friends that sent cards every few days.  These friends all happened to be people I had met through my Mary Kay business (that I had been taking for granted).  I realized with how much they touched my life, that I need to be giving myself to others on a more regular basis.  I have picked up my MK business in full force now (that is touching women's lives every day), I am helping out at our ccfa monthly meetings, and I am really trying to look at the positive in everything I do.  I get to play with my kids all day, I get to share people, etc.

I think I am doing so well with my UC becuase I am being positive.  They tell me I look horrible on paper, but are very surprised when they see me in person.  Positive thinking does wonders!!!

 Reply posted for nickrystal.

Yes, something good has come to me.

Recovering and taking back control of my health has been my number 1 priority.  In doing this, I no longer have time for things that do not matter or that are drama related. 

My hubby and kids have been so patient with me and I consider that a huge blessing as some days it gets tough around here.

Next to God, I'm putting my health and family first.  I ask myself everyday where this journey is taking me and what can I learn from it.  Some days I have no answer, but I pray that it will come.