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Happy to find this forum


Sat, December 05, 2009 9:14 AM

Hello from across the water. I live in South Africa, but as I can find no support groups for crohns in this country and because I find this to be the most informative, non panic- inducing site, I have signed up.

My son is 9yrs old and was diagnosed last year, after a horrible time of uncertainty and fear. He is actually doing really well now, on Azathioprine and Pentasa. It has and continues to be a learning curve for us all.

We saw a therapist last year as a family and he had some sessions on his own because it was really hard for him to deal with. he developed a needle phobia from the constant bloodtests and major separation anxiety.

Its just wonderful to read the entries here and see that I am not alone in my worry and concern for him. Trying to allow him to grow up a normal little boy and not be too overprotective, while at the same time protecting him. We had the H1N1 here over our winter and I kept him home for two weeks because it was at his school. I just went with my gut because my husband and I are not going to take the chance. Over the top? Maybe.

Suppose its just getting used to this new normal...

FPO neesie
Joined Nov 4, 2009

Sun, November 15, 2009 1:00 AM

 Reply posted for loving mother.

Thanks, moms, for the friendly welcome. Must say it is so wonderful to be amongst those who really understand.

I have told James about your children. I think it is so important to normalise his reality, and for him to know that he is not alone.

FPO neesie
Joined Nov 4, 2009

Sat, November 14, 2009 1:00 AM

 Reply posted for Neesie.

Hang in there ! It does get better. Our daughter was diagnosed in middle school and now she is in her first year of college. The worrying never stops, but the more knowledge that you have and support from other the better we as parents can cope too. We all know what you are going through. H1N1 is very prevalent at our daughter's university so she takes lots of vitamins in addition to her regular routine and tries to stay as healthy as possible. The worrying never stops does it....

FPO mominpoconos
Joined Nov 13, 2009

Wed, November 04, 2009 10:31 PM

 Reply posted for Neesie.

Hi... I like the way you put it... that this site is "the most non panic- inducing"... I find that to be true too.  My son turned 11 on Halloween and he was diagnosed with Crohn's this past summer.  I just wanted to say hi and welcome.

FPO mominmichigan
Joined Jul 24, 2009

Wed, November 04, 2009 5:35 PM

 Reply posted for Neesie.

Hello!!  I am sorry to hear of your son's diagnosis.  My son was diagnosed in October of 2009 with Crohns.  He is now 8.  I am glad you found this forum helpful.  I have also found it very helpful dealing with my son's diagnosis.  Everyone is always willing to give advice and encouragement.  It is great.  My son is also on Imuran (Azathioprine) but was taken off Pentasa.  He is also on Iron, Vitamin D, and Miralax.  Thank you for sharing your story with us.  I will keep your son and your family in my prayers.  Take care.

FPO loving mother
Joined Nov 28, 2008

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