I received an email from the founder of BathroomMap.
I thought you may be interested in sharing with your readers a new bathroom locator application that is now available on the Apple App Store (Android version is due out in Feb.). It's a free app and there's no advertising, and I believe it is the best bathroom locator app available and I designed it with the needs of those with IBD in mind. I'm looking to get the word out to the IBD community. The name of the app is BathroomMap and you can find it by visiting the link below on an iPhone.
https://itunes.apple.com/PL/app/id893820545
His mum has Crohn's and he has IBS. I'm downloading it as soon as I publish this post.
I know that we all can use this, cuz "you never know when you got to go"
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Friday, December 26, 2014
12 Days of a Crohnie Christmas
The twelve days of Christmas traditionally are the 12 days after Christmas, but instead of doing one for each day, I'm posting all twelve today, but in a "different" way.
Now remember, to get the full effect, you must sing it =)
On the twelfth day of Christmas, my Crohns Disease gave to me.........
...12 rolls of toilet paper,
11 packs of underwear,
10 visits to the ER,
9 blood tests,
8 B12 shots,
7 different doctors,
6 Remicade infusions,
5 fistulaaaaaaaaaaa's,
4 kidney stones,
3 bone density tests,
2 peri-anal abscesses
and a painful colonoscopyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!
Now remember, to get the full effect, you must sing it =)
On the twelfth day of Christmas, my Crohns Disease gave to me.........
...12 rolls of toilet paper,
11 packs of underwear,
10 visits to the ER,
9 blood tests,
8 B12 shots,
7 different doctors,
6 Remicade infusions,
5 fistulaaaaaaaaaaa's,
4 kidney stones,
3 bone density tests,
2 peri-anal abscesses
and a painful colonoscopyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!
Thursday, December 25, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 25
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
..... hope
Hope....they will find the cause
Hope....they will find the cure
Hope....that we all spend as little time in hospital as possible
Hope....that all Crohnie's around the world, have the most healthy of years for 2015
And that closes the Advent calendar for another year. Looking forward to next year
Thanks for stopping by!!
Have a very Merry Christmas and all the best for a happy and healthy 2015!!!!
~Vern
..... hope
Hope....they will find the cause
Hope....they will find the cure
Hope....that we all spend as little time in hospital as possible
Hope....that all Crohnie's around the world, have the most healthy of years for 2015
And that closes the Advent calendar for another year. Looking forward to next year
Thanks for stopping by!!
Have a very Merry Christmas and all the best for a happy and healthy 2015!!!!
~Vern
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 24
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... pillows !!!
(to make that pillow mountain for the frequent nights we lay awake)
... pillows !!!
(to make that pillow mountain for the frequent nights we lay awake)
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
Crohnie Christmas Tree
Saw this and immediately thought of the Crohn's community.....how many of us have this? =)
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 23
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... a winning lottery ticket !!
(so we never have to call in sick again....ever!)
... a winning lottery ticket !!
(so we never have to call in sick again....ever!)
Monday, December 22, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 22
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... a neon sign flashing, "I know I don't LOOK sick"
... a neon sign flashing, "I know I don't LOOK sick"
Sunday, December 21, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 21
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... raspberry tea !!
(for those darn kidney stones)
... raspberry tea !!
(for those darn kidney stones)
Saturday, December 20, 2014
Twas the Night Before a Crohnie Christmas
This year, I came up with my own version of the famous poem. There are some words that might offend, but.....well.....I never said I was politically correct =)
Enjoy !!!
His eyes, how they squinted! His face quite scary!
He let out a fart, not pleasant or airey!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
I was getting prepared, he was gonna let another one go.
The bags under his eyes, I saw his fatigue
That comes from living with this dam Crohn's Disease.
He had a broad face, (must be the Prednisone),
If he didn’t hurry, he would soon need the throne.
He was chubby and plump, a right smelly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!
The moon face, mood swings and twitch of the head,
Soon gave me to know it was for sure the Pred.
Enjoy !!!
‘Twas the night
before a Crohnie Christmas, quiet as a mouse
Trying to get to the bathroom without disturbing the spouse.
The TP was hung by the toilet with care,
In hopes that I don’t run out whilst I sit there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
I hope I’m not too loud lest I wake their sleepy heads.
And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
But I had to get up, I needed to crap.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my throne to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Still pulling up my underwear to cover my ass.
I live on the coast so there wasn’t any snow
Just dreary wet grass that I can see below.
When, what to my very tired eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer.
A decrepit old driver, not lively or quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St Nick.
He didn’t look well, he must be inflamed,
But he whistled, and shouted, and called his reindeer by name!
"Now Crohns! Now, Colitis! Now, Pain and Grouch!
On, Abscess! On, Fistula! On, Ostomy and J-Pouch!
To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!
Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"
And then, in an instant, I heard on the roof,
The scratching and farting of that big, silly goof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his toe,
He looked very fatigued, he moved really slow.
A bundle of toys he had flung on my chair,
He looked in pain, it must be a flare.
Trying to get to the bathroom without disturbing the spouse.
The TP was hung by the toilet with care,
In hopes that I don’t run out whilst I sit there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
I hope I’m not too loud lest I wake their sleepy heads.
And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
But I had to get up, I needed to crap.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my throne to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Still pulling up my underwear to cover my ass.
I live on the coast so there wasn’t any snow
Just dreary wet grass that I can see below.
When, what to my very tired eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer.
A decrepit old driver, not lively or quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St Nick.
He didn’t look well, he must be inflamed,
But he whistled, and shouted, and called his reindeer by name!
"Now Crohns! Now, Colitis! Now, Pain and Grouch!
On, Abscess! On, Fistula! On, Ostomy and J-Pouch!
To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!
Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"
And then, in an instant, I heard on the roof,
The scratching and farting of that big, silly goof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his toe,
He looked very fatigued, he moved really slow.
A bundle of toys he had flung on my chair,
He looked in pain, it must be a flare.
His eyes, how they squinted! His face quite scary!
He let out a fart, not pleasant or airey!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
I was getting prepared, he was gonna let another one go.
The bags under his eyes, I saw his fatigue
That comes from living with this dam Crohn's Disease.
He had a broad face, (must be the Prednisone),
If he didn’t hurry, he would soon need the throne.
He was chubby and plump, a right smelly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!
The moon face, mood swings and twitch of the head,
Soon gave me to know it was for sure the Pred.
He
spoke not a word, but went straight to the bathroom,
And filled my toilet with a splat! and a KABOOM!
And laying his fingers, covering his nose,
Giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!
He sprang to his sleigh, he now weighed so much less,
He thanked me and apologized for the big mess.
But when I heard him exclaim, I realized he knew our plight,
“I have Crohn’s Disease too, it’s going to be one HELL of a night!!”
And filled my toilet with a splat! and a KABOOM!
And laying his fingers, covering his nose,
Giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!
He sprang to his sleigh, he now weighed so much less,
He thanked me and apologized for the big mess.
But when I heard him exclaim, I realized he knew our plight,
“I have Crohn’s Disease too, it’s going to be one HELL of a night!!”
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 20
Opening the bathroom stall this morning to find...
... sleeping pills !!
(you know you want them....)
... sleeping pills !!
(you know you want them....)
Friday, December 19, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 19
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... a spray bottle of "Crohn-Away" !!
(for those days you just want it to go away)
... a spray bottle of "Crohn-Away" !!
(for those days you just want it to go away)
Thursday, December 18, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 18
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... protein bars !!!
... protein bars !!!
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 17
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... a "365 Reasons Why You Can't Do Something" book
(one for every day of the year, cuz you're going to need it)
... a "365 Reasons Why You Can't Do Something" book
(one for every day of the year, cuz you're going to need it)
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 16
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... Biologics !!!
... Biologics !!!
Monday, December 15, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 15
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... energy drinks !!!
(and OH do we need that!)
... energy drinks !!!
(and OH do we need that!)
Sunday, December 14, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 14
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
...multivitamins !!
(even though you will never be able to absorb all the vitamins you'll need)
...multivitamins !!
(even though you will never be able to absorb all the vitamins you'll need)
Saturday, December 13, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 13
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... egg nog
(you know, just to smell it, cuz you can't drink it)
... egg nog
(you know, just to smell it, cuz you can't drink it)
Friday, December 12, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 12
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... liquid Iron
(cuz anemia is a bitch)
... liquid Iron
(cuz anemia is a bitch)
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 11
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... unlimited access to Emergency parking at the hospital
... unlimited access to Emergency parking at the hospital
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Remicade : Day 869
Almost 2 and a half years now and I have some advice for those of you, like myself, that has problems with thin veins....this is what I do when it's "Infusion Day".
Before I leave for the clinic I run my hand under warm water to make the vein pop out, then dry it and slip a ski glove on (yes I do this in summer as well). When I get to the clinic, I take off the glove and put it under a heating pad and crank it up to high. By the time the nurse gets to me to insert the needle, my veins are puffed up like they're swollen and about to burst......and the needle slides right in easily and no pain. Awesome.
Give it a try next time.....
Before I leave for the clinic I run my hand under warm water to make the vein pop out, then dry it and slip a ski glove on (yes I do this in summer as well). When I get to the clinic, I take off the glove and put it under a heating pad and crank it up to high. By the time the nurse gets to me to insert the needle, my veins are puffed up like they're swollen and about to burst......and the needle slides right in easily and no pain. Awesome.
Give it a try next time.....
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 10
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... a heating pad
(to wrap around your hand on infusion day, to make your veins pop up)
... a heating pad
(to wrap around your hand on infusion day, to make your veins pop up)
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 9
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... a micro-chip implant that zaps you every time you want to eat something you know you shouldn't.
... a micro-chip implant that zaps you every time you want to eat something you know you shouldn't.
Monday, December 8, 2014
Crohns Advent Calendar - Day 8
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... a mega-dose needle full of B-12 !!!
... a mega-dose needle full of B-12 !!!
Sunday, December 7, 2014
Crohn's Advent Calendar - Day 7
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... a skeleton key to open ALL gas station bathroom doors !!
(cuz sometimes there's no time to go inside a wait to ask for the key)
... a skeleton key to open ALL gas station bathroom doors !!
(cuz sometimes there's no time to go inside a wait to ask for the key)
Saturday, December 6, 2014
Crohn's Advent Calendar - Day 6
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... 365 travel size packs of hand wipes !!
(one for every day of the year....they're not just for hands anymore.....)
... 365 travel size packs of hand wipes !!
(one for every day of the year....they're not just for hands anymore.....)
Friday, December 5, 2014
Do The Dance
I received this video from a reader, Cheryl Diamond, and she thought we could all use a laugh (as we do)
https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=811780608860331&set=vb.100000851997245&type=2&theater
Tune in tomorrow for the next door of my advent calendar...
https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=811780608860331&set=vb.100000851997245&type=2&theater
Tune in tomorrow for the next door of my advent calendar...
Crohn's Advent Calendar - Day 5
Opening the bathroom stall door this morning to find...
... new underwear !!!!!
(cuz you know you'll need it)
... new underwear !!!!!
(cuz you know you'll need it)
Thursday, December 4, 2014
Crohn's Advent Calendar - Day 4
Opening the bathroom stall door to find...
... a 160 roll pack of toilet paper !!
(you know...to last the week)
... a 160 roll pack of toilet paper !!
(you know...to last the week)
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Crohn's Advent Calendar - Day 3
Opening the bathroom stall door to find...
... an industrial size can of air freshener !!
.
... an industrial size can of air freshener !!
.
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Crohn's Advent Calendar - Day 2
Opening the bathroom stall door to find.........
....a "slimming" mirror !
(because after all that prednisone, it's a nice reminder of what you looked like before)
....a "slimming" mirror !
(because after all that prednisone, it's a nice reminder of what you looked like before)
Monday, December 1, 2014
Crohn's Advent Calendar - Day 1
Came downstairs this chilly December 1st, to open the first door on my Crohn's Advent calendar to see what I got
Opening the bathroom stall door to find.........
....... a fruit cake !
(because you know it's going to have you running to the bathroom for days!)
Opening the bathroom stall door to find.........
....... a fruit cake !
(because you know it's going to have you running to the bathroom for days!)
Sunday, November 30, 2014
Sunday, November 23, 2014
Introducing the "Poo Bus"
With the amount of time we Crohnies "go", we could corner the market!!
http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/nov/20/uks-first-poo-bus-hits-the-road
http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/nov/20/uks-first-poo-bus-hits-the-road
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Crohnie Quote of the Day
For when a Crohnie eats.....
"Through the lips and over the gums
Look out world,
I've got the runs!"
.
"Through the lips and over the gums
Look out world,
I've got the runs!"
.
Friday, November 14, 2014
You Might Be A Crohnie...
If you try and go a whole day without talking about your bowel noises and fail miserably
...you might be a Crohnie
...you might be a Crohnie
Sunday, November 9, 2014
"Tooting" My Own Horn
WEGO Health Portal is having their annual Health Activist Awards and my blog, this blog, has been nominated again this year for two awards.
Now, I'm a pretty quiet person, and not one to toot my own horn (ha ha ha....he said "toot") but this year I wanted to say to those who have nominated me and this blog, "Thanks".
In this case, it truly is great just to be nominated. I never started this blog for any kind of recognition or fanfare, but to help myself and in turn, others.
I feel honored and humbled and I thank you
If you wish to endorse the current nominations, or nominate me for another, then please visit the Nominees page
https://awards.wegohealth.com/nominees/142
Now, I'm a pretty quiet person, and not one to toot my own horn (ha ha ha....he said "toot") but this year I wanted to say to those who have nominated me and this blog, "Thanks".
In this case, it truly is great just to be nominated. I never started this blog for any kind of recognition or fanfare, but to help myself and in turn, others.
I feel honored and humbled and I thank you
If you wish to endorse the current nominations, or nominate me for another, then please visit the Nominees page
https://awards.wegohealth.com/nominees/142
Saturday, November 1, 2014
You Might Be A Crohnie...
If your farts smell like something from the world of Zombies
...you might be a Crohnie
.
...you might be a Crohnie
.
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Remicade: Day 826
When you think about all the time I sit in the big black faux leather Lay-Z Boy, soaking up the $4000 freezing cold "juice" for 2 hours at a time, every 6 weeks.....I've been sitting in that chair for 19,824 hours...to date...and still going strong.
This day I weighed in the heaviest I have in awhile, 72.7 kg. (160lbs) Funny, I don't FEEL heavier, but my pants are tighter around the waste these days. Is it the Remicade? could be....
One thing IS for sure, I don't regret starting the drug even with the possible side effects.
Bring on the fat-pants!!!
This day I weighed in the heaviest I have in awhile, 72.7 kg. (160lbs) Funny, I don't FEEL heavier, but my pants are tighter around the waste these days. Is it the Remicade? could be....
One thing IS for sure, I don't regret starting the drug even with the possible side effects.
Bring on the fat-pants!!!
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Monday, October 13, 2014
Happy Thanksgiving !!
That time of year again, and the season of
"all the food I'm not suppose to eat, but I'm probably going to"
It's Canadian Thanksgiving today and we're having all the family over to enjoy the company and the food. Turkey, potato's, stuffing, carrots, brussel sprouts, cranberries, gravy, etc. So, having said that, realistically, I SHOULD eat, the potato's, stuffing and gravy. Why? Cranberries go right through me, carrots (unless they are cooked right down to almost mush) cause blockages sometimes for me, brussel sprouts and turkey are gaseous causing food.
So, of course, I will eat it all and pay for it later =)
Happy Thanksgiving to all my family and friends. Even with this disease, I have a lot to be thankful for.
.
"all the food I'm not suppose to eat, but I'm probably going to"
It's Canadian Thanksgiving today and we're having all the family over to enjoy the company and the food. Turkey, potato's, stuffing, carrots, brussel sprouts, cranberries, gravy, etc. So, having said that, realistically, I SHOULD eat, the potato's, stuffing and gravy. Why? Cranberries go right through me, carrots (unless they are cooked right down to almost mush) cause blockages sometimes for me, brussel sprouts and turkey are gaseous causing food.
So, of course, I will eat it all and pay for it later =)
Happy Thanksgiving to all my family and friends. Even with this disease, I have a lot to be thankful for.
.
Saturday, October 4, 2014
Crohnie Quote Of The Day
I have had Crohn's Disease since I was 19 years old.....
which means I haven't been "regular" for more than half my life.
.
which means I haven't been "regular" for more than half my life.
.
Friday, October 3, 2014
Crohn's and Vacation
I get questions about how to deal with Crohn's and travelling.
Well, I just had my first vacation in over 10 years. My last vacation was to England and it was not a good experience. It involved doctors, pills and a very large abscess. Not to mention the 10 hour plane ride home....not a good time.
This time, I took my family to Disneyland. We spent 8 days in Disneyland, SeaWorld, Legoland and California Park. We had a great time, but......
Basically for breakfast I had white toast with peanut butter and a cup of coffee (brewed coffee, not instant), everyday
Skipped lunch, everyday, but had a protein bar.
Regular dinner.
Lots and lots of water. I brought my Brita bottle with me so I could fill whenever I wanted.
It was very hot (for me) and after 2 days of walking around Disneyland I was done and I started to develop a perianal abscess. I missed SeaWorld so my wife took my 2 boys without me. I felt so bad for them as they wanted me to go, but thought it best that I rest. They understand about my illness and I appreciate that, but doesn't make it any easier for me about disappointing them. The next 2 days were Legoland and California park, both of which I have never been.
Thankfully I felt better after the rest and had no problems the following 2 days. I was still tired by the end of each day, but I had also brought my B12 pills with me which I think helped a lot.
We did Disney again the next day and my wife took them again to California park the day we were leaving whilst I stayed at the hotel to finish the packing she started.
I'm thankful for an understanding wife and family. I felt awful inside that I couldn't do all the things my kids wanted me to do, but at the same time, they know that I just can't.
Ironically, I didn't lose any weight while gone for 8 days. I thought for sure I would....but didn't. Skipping lunch and only having toast with peanut butter, I didn't feel hungry. Maybe the protein bars helped, who knows.
Would I do it again? Hell yes....
.
Well, I just had my first vacation in over 10 years. My last vacation was to England and it was not a good experience. It involved doctors, pills and a very large abscess. Not to mention the 10 hour plane ride home....not a good time.
This time, I took my family to Disneyland. We spent 8 days in Disneyland, SeaWorld, Legoland and California Park. We had a great time, but......
Basically for breakfast I had white toast with peanut butter and a cup of coffee (brewed coffee, not instant), everyday
Skipped lunch, everyday, but had a protein bar.
Regular dinner.
Lots and lots of water. I brought my Brita bottle with me so I could fill whenever I wanted.
It was very hot (for me) and after 2 days of walking around Disneyland I was done and I started to develop a perianal abscess. I missed SeaWorld so my wife took my 2 boys without me. I felt so bad for them as they wanted me to go, but thought it best that I rest. They understand about my illness and I appreciate that, but doesn't make it any easier for me about disappointing them. The next 2 days were Legoland and California park, both of which I have never been.
Thankfully I felt better after the rest and had no problems the following 2 days. I was still tired by the end of each day, but I had also brought my B12 pills with me which I think helped a lot.
We did Disney again the next day and my wife took them again to California park the day we were leaving whilst I stayed at the hotel to finish the packing she started.
I'm thankful for an understanding wife and family. I felt awful inside that I couldn't do all the things my kids wanted me to do, but at the same time, they know that I just can't.
Ironically, I didn't lose any weight while gone for 8 days. I thought for sure I would....but didn't. Skipping lunch and only having toast with peanut butter, I didn't feel hungry. Maybe the protein bars helped, who knows.
Would I do it again? Hell yes....
.
Friday, September 19, 2014
You Might Be A Crohnie...
If when the doctor says "open wide"..... you bend over
...you might be a Crohnie
.
...you might be a Crohnie
.
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
You Might Be A Crohnie...
If you don't eat for days before the big game, simply so you don't have to go to the bathroom while its on
...you might be a Crohnie
...you might be a Crohnie
Saturday, August 30, 2014
50,000 Thank You's
When I started this blog back in 2009 on the urging of my sister-in-law, I never dreamed it would ever reach 50,000 page views, let alone have people actually wanting to follow what I have to say.
This blog started out as a simple "diary" for me and my experiences with Crohn's with the off-chance that someone might want to read it and maybe help them deal with all this "crap".
I wanted to take this time, and this posting, to thank everyone who has stopped by for a visit. I hope, maybe, that I was able to give you some help or a laugh (or two). Also like to thank those that have Facebooked, tweeted, and all that social media "stuff" as well as Healthline.com for adding me to your "Best Of" lists for the past 2 years. As well as those who have commented, emailed, supported, contributed to this blog and have purchased my artwork. A big thank you to my family who have helped me through the years while dealing with this illness, especially my lovely wife and two boys. I don't say it a whole lot because I'm not the touchy-feely-give me a hug-kind of guy, but I can't thank everyone enough.
Thank you.
.
This blog started out as a simple "diary" for me and my experiences with Crohn's with the off-chance that someone might want to read it and maybe help them deal with all this "crap".
I wanted to take this time, and this posting, to thank everyone who has stopped by for a visit. I hope, maybe, that I was able to give you some help or a laugh (or two). Also like to thank those that have Facebooked, tweeted, and all that social media "stuff" as well as Healthline.com for adding me to your "Best Of" lists for the past 2 years. As well as those who have commented, emailed, supported, contributed to this blog and have purchased my artwork. A big thank you to my family who have helped me through the years while dealing with this illness, especially my lovely wife and two boys. I don't say it a whole lot because I'm not the touchy-feely-give me a hug-kind of guy, but I can't thank everyone enough.
Thank you.
.
Friday, August 29, 2014
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Friday, August 15, 2014
You Might Be A Crohnie...
If you call your bloated abdomen your "Crohn's baby"...
you might be a Crohnie
.
you might be a Crohnie
.
Friday, August 8, 2014
Fatigue Anyone...??
Fatigue.
Talk with anyone that suffers from Crohn's and it'll be THE most common symptom amongst us.
But what, if anything, can we do about it?
The most common, is anemia, so boosting your red blood cells and iron are key. Here's what you can do as far as food goes:
Iron. Food rich in iron can help your body rebuild what it has lost. Lentils and legumes are a great way to get the iron you need and they are healthy for you in many other ways, too.
Copper. This vital mineral can be found in many foods, including shellfish, poultry, liver, whole grains, beans, cherries, chocolate and nuts.
Folic Acid. Long known as a great help for pregnant and nursing mothers, foods that contain folic acid include lentils, dark green leafy vegetables, blackeyed peas and cereals fortified with folic acid.
Vitamin A. This very important vitamin can be found in a multitude of fruits, including grapefruit, mango, watermelon, plums, cantaloupe and apricots.
Vitamin B12. Meat, eggs and fortified cereals are a great way to get plenty of B12 in your diet.
Vitamin B6. This vitamin is found in a wide variety of foods, including meats, whole grains and bran, nuts and seeds, fish, vegetables and legumes.
There are also supplements, if you can tolerate them.
Iron, Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6 & Vitamin E, can also help in boosting your red blood cells.
Believe it or not, and even though you don't want to do it most days, but exercise can also reduce your fatigue levels.
Also, the simple act of sleeping helps. But the effects of the disease itself, like pain, anxiety and depression are also factors in contributing to feeling tired.
Many times though, its the very medication that helps us, that tires us.
Be sure that every time you go to your specialist, or regular doctor, mention it. Don't think that it can't be treated.....maybe they have suggestions that will help. Not ever thing is going to work for everyone.
Can't hurt to try.
.
Talk with anyone that suffers from Crohn's and it'll be THE most common symptom amongst us.
But what, if anything, can we do about it?
The most common, is anemia, so boosting your red blood cells and iron are key. Here's what you can do as far as food goes:
Iron. Food rich in iron can help your body rebuild what it has lost. Lentils and legumes are a great way to get the iron you need and they are healthy for you in many other ways, too.
Copper. This vital mineral can be found in many foods, including shellfish, poultry, liver, whole grains, beans, cherries, chocolate and nuts.
Folic Acid. Long known as a great help for pregnant and nursing mothers, foods that contain folic acid include lentils, dark green leafy vegetables, blackeyed peas and cereals fortified with folic acid.
Vitamin A. This very important vitamin can be found in a multitude of fruits, including grapefruit, mango, watermelon, plums, cantaloupe and apricots.
Vitamin B12. Meat, eggs and fortified cereals are a great way to get plenty of B12 in your diet.
Vitamin B6. This vitamin is found in a wide variety of foods, including meats, whole grains and bran, nuts and seeds, fish, vegetables and legumes.
There are also supplements, if you can tolerate them.
Iron, Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6 & Vitamin E, can also help in boosting your red blood cells.
Believe it or not, and even though you don't want to do it most days, but exercise can also reduce your fatigue levels.
Also, the simple act of sleeping helps. But the effects of the disease itself, like pain, anxiety and depression are also factors in contributing to feeling tired.
Many times though, its the very medication that helps us, that tires us.
Be sure that every time you go to your specialist, or regular doctor, mention it. Don't think that it can't be treated.....maybe they have suggestions that will help. Not ever thing is going to work for everyone.
Can't hurt to try.
.
Saturday, August 2, 2014
Let One Go
The best version of Let It Go out there.....from a Crohnie perspective.........ENJOY! (I did)
Thanks to UK comedian Nick L'Mao
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Monday, July 21, 2014
"What's It Like?" .........Living With Crohn's
This, believe it or not, is a question I get now and then. I feel like saying....
"I don't know....what's it like NOT living with Crohn's Disease?"
....and then look at their face with that puzzled look, like I've just asked them what the meaning of life is. But it's the same thing. I can't answer that question. I don't think there IS an answer.
So, I was trying to think of a way to describe it and this is the best I can do...
Living with Crohn's Disease is like waiting for an earthquake.
You have no idea where you'll be or when a flare will happen, but the best you can do is to be as prepared as possible.
.
"I don't know....what's it like NOT living with Crohn's Disease?"
....and then look at their face with that puzzled look, like I've just asked them what the meaning of life is. But it's the same thing. I can't answer that question. I don't think there IS an answer.
So, I was trying to think of a way to describe it and this is the best I can do...
Living with Crohn's Disease is like waiting for an earthquake.
You have no idea where you'll be or when a flare will happen, but the best you can do is to be as prepared as possible.
.
Sunday, July 13, 2014
You Might Be A Crohnie...
If according to the 2014 Guinness Book of World Records, under "Toilet Sitting", you see your picture...
you might be a Crohnie
.
you might be a Crohnie
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Thursday, July 10, 2014
The Love of a Son
My two boys know that I have Crohn's. To be exact, they know that I have an "illness" that makes me NOT be able to eat what they eat or do things that they do and they know that there are times that daddy just needs to rest for awhile. They also know that sometimes I have to go to hospital, but they don't understand "why"........which, when I think about it, neither do I.
Having said all that, one son actually "hurt" me by giving me a hug. Yes a hug. They are normally very careful around me, but he just squeezed too hard. I doubled over in pain as it was quick and the sudden pain made me bend right over.
What hurt the most? The look on my 7 year olds face. I think he thought he killed me and looked scared.
I felt awful.
Things like this can happen, and its not his fault, he just wanted to give me a hug.
The point is, something as simple as a hug can put a Crohnie down for the count.
What a sucky disease!!
.
Having said all that, one son actually "hurt" me by giving me a hug. Yes a hug. They are normally very careful around me, but he just squeezed too hard. I doubled over in pain as it was quick and the sudden pain made me bend right over.
What hurt the most? The look on my 7 year olds face. I think he thought he killed me and looked scared.
I felt awful.
Things like this can happen, and its not his fault, he just wanted to give me a hug.
The point is, something as simple as a hug can put a Crohnie down for the count.
What a sucky disease!!
.
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Remicade: Day 709
Closing in fast on my 2 year "anniversary" for my infusions and after this last one, I once again am humbled by others that suffer with this disease. There are so many of "us" now.
Talking with others at the infusion site, we all learn we suffer from the same thing, but each of us have "side effects" that differ, whether that be with meds, food, emotions, etc.
And after the discussions, I sit there staring at my IV tube flowing with my "go-go mouse juice", watching it go through the needle that luckily only took one poke to get in and wonder...... with all these different symptoms, how can researchers possibly ever find "the cure". I mean, one that helps us all.
I can only say, I hope its soon
.
Talking with others at the infusion site, we all learn we suffer from the same thing, but each of us have "side effects" that differ, whether that be with meds, food, emotions, etc.
And after the discussions, I sit there staring at my IV tube flowing with my "go-go mouse juice", watching it go through the needle that luckily only took one poke to get in and wonder...... with all these different symptoms, how can researchers possibly ever find "the cure". I mean, one that helps us all.
I can only say, I hope its soon
.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
You Might Be A Crohnie...
If you can physically SEE your abdomen "deflate" as you pass gas...
you might be a Crohnie
.
you might be a Crohnie
.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Time For Some Crohns Reflection
As I close in on my 2 years of Remicade, I'm sitting in my living room looking at my wife and two boys cuddling together on the couch and think what a lucky guy I am....and if it weren't for my Crohn's, it probably wouldn't have happened.
I turned 46 a couple of weeks ago. Which means, I have had Crohn's more than half my life. I have been living with this &^%$ disease for 26 years now. To this day, I still go to hospital, I just don't go as often as I used to and for less "serious" stuff. Some would say, anytime you go to hospital it's serious, but for me staying in hospital overnight or a day or two is a far cry from the weeks or months I use to do in the beginning.
I guess I'm lucky, in one sense, that I have a mild case of the disease. If you consider having most of your small intestine and some of your large removed, fistula's, fissure's, abscesses, infection's, severe dehydration and anemia, mild.....then yes. From MY point of view, it's far from mild, but over the years after meeting and talking with others with Crohn's, yes, I am lucky. It doesn't make it any easier though.
I am thankful for one thing with my Crohn's, I met my wife and have two wonderful boys. I never thought I would ever meet anyone. How do you explain the disease, in the beginning, to another person whom you want to date. I told her on the first date. You know what she said? She said, "Okay". That was it. That's when I knew.
So, yes, I guess you can say I'm "happy" for the disease..... in a way.
.
I turned 46 a couple of weeks ago. Which means, I have had Crohn's more than half my life. I have been living with this &^%$ disease for 26 years now. To this day, I still go to hospital, I just don't go as often as I used to and for less "serious" stuff. Some would say, anytime you go to hospital it's serious, but for me staying in hospital overnight or a day or two is a far cry from the weeks or months I use to do in the beginning.
I guess I'm lucky, in one sense, that I have a mild case of the disease. If you consider having most of your small intestine and some of your large removed, fistula's, fissure's, abscesses, infection's, severe dehydration and anemia, mild.....then yes. From MY point of view, it's far from mild, but over the years after meeting and talking with others with Crohn's, yes, I am lucky. It doesn't make it any easier though.
I am thankful for one thing with my Crohn's, I met my wife and have two wonderful boys. I never thought I would ever meet anyone. How do you explain the disease, in the beginning, to another person whom you want to date. I told her on the first date. You know what she said? She said, "Okay". That was it. That's when I knew.
So, yes, I guess you can say I'm "happy" for the disease..... in a way.
.
Friday, June 13, 2014
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Crohnie Quote of the Day
The good physician treats the disease; the great physician treats the patient who has the disease.
-William Osler
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
You Might Be A Crohnie...
If you can just LOOK at food and tell how long it'll take from the time you eat it until you have to go to the bathroom
....you might be a Crohnie
.
....you might be a Crohnie
.
Remicade: Day 666
Today I thought I would bring my laptop with me to my infusion.
I noticed that today is the 666th day of Remicade.....interesting.....no problems so far today. The needle went in smooth (thanks to 15 minutes with the heating pad on my hand, plumping up the old veins)
I have my "infusion day" shirt on........
I noticed that today is the 666th day of Remicade.....interesting.....no problems so far today. The needle went in smooth (thanks to 15 minutes with the heating pad on my hand, plumping up the old veins)
I have my "infusion day" shirt on........
Had another lady in here see it and want one.....so I'm thinking maybe I should start taking orders and send proceeds to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundations.....hmmmmm
Time to rest now.....
.
Monday, May 19, 2014
Crohn's Disease Through Art
One mans experience with IBD through his Art.....awesome
"Canterbury photographer Sam Sword illustrates his journey with IBD through his art.
Follow Sam's story as he talks us through the emotions and thoughts behind each photograph.
This powerful exhibition was launched at Parliament on 2 July 2013."
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Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Crohnie Quote Of The Day
When talking with someone, either on the phone or in person, and you tell them that you have to go because you need to go to the washroom......it's not "code" for 'please, keep talking'
.
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Monday, May 12, 2014
Crohns Blogs
A big "Thank you" shout out to Healthline.com for voting this blog as one of the 12 Best Crohns Disease Blogs of The Year for 2014.
"Vern is a self-described "Crohnie" whose blog, Leaving the Seat Down, is frequently updated and also frequently entertaining. If you’re Crohnie-curious, his "You Might Be A Crohnie" section is a must-read. Like much of the rest of the blog, it’s also very funny.
Vern's ability to continue rocking with whatever Crohn's rolls his way is truly inspirational. He started painting in 2010 as a form of art therapy, and you can enjoy many of his paintings on the site."
I am once again, humbled and honored to be selected amongst my fellow Crohns bloggers.
I'm glad to be able to help, as we all need it.
Thanks Healthline !!
"Vern is a self-described "Crohnie" whose blog, Leaving the Seat Down, is frequently updated and also frequently entertaining. If you’re Crohnie-curious, his "You Might Be A Crohnie" section is a must-read. Like much of the rest of the blog, it’s also very funny.
Vern's ability to continue rocking with whatever Crohn's rolls his way is truly inspirational. He started painting in 2010 as a form of art therapy, and you can enjoy many of his paintings on the site."
I am once again, humbled and honored to be selected amongst my fellow Crohns bloggers.
I'm glad to be able to help, as we all need it.
Thanks Healthline !!
Saturday, May 3, 2014
You Might Be A Crohnie...
If after going to the bathroom, you come out, exhausted and out of breath like you just ran a marathon
...you might be a Crohnie
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...you might be a Crohnie
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Thursday, April 24, 2014
Friday, April 18, 2014
40,000
WOW !!
Today, this blog reached, and surpassed, the 40,000 page view mark. I never in my wildest.....well, maybe my wildest dreams....but never in a million years did I ever think it would get to this point.
Sometimes I write because I want to, sometimes because I feel I have to and sometimes just because I need a laugh and maybe that day, someone needs a laugh as well.
Whatever I can do to help, myself and others, I'll keep trying to do.
Thanks to everyone who stops by for a look.
Today, this blog reached, and surpassed, the 40,000 page view mark. I never in my wildest.....well, maybe my wildest dreams....but never in a million years did I ever think it would get to this point.
Sometimes I write because I want to, sometimes because I feel I have to and sometimes just because I need a laugh and maybe that day, someone needs a laugh as well.
Whatever I can do to help, myself and others, I'll keep trying to do.
Thanks to everyone who stops by for a look.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Funding Boost for Crohn's Research
I recently read an article in today's Vancouver Sun,
http://www.vancouversun.com/health/Crohn+disease+hits+kids+with+family+roots+South+Asia/9741766/story.html, talking about the link between Crohn's Disease and people from South Asia.
But within this article, was a link to the GEM project (http://www.gemproject.ca/category/news/) and the announcement of a commitment of $10 million towards Crohn's research, followed by another $4 million from fundraising.
I would like to thank the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust for the large donation towards the annihilation of this disease.
Thanks
.
http://www.vancouversun.com/health/Crohn+disease+hits+kids+with+family+roots+South+Asia/9741766/story.html, talking about the link between Crohn's Disease and people from South Asia.
But within this article, was a link to the GEM project (http://www.gemproject.ca/category/news/) and the announcement of a commitment of $10 million towards Crohn's research, followed by another $4 million from fundraising.
I would like to thank the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust for the large donation towards the annihilation of this disease.
Thanks
.
Monday, April 14, 2014
Crohnie Quote Of The Day
A Crohn's flareup is like an earthquake.....you know it's gonna happen, you just don't know when.
.
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Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Remicade : Day 623
Another day, another infusion.
Today I learned a few things while sitting there trying to get comfortable in the pleather Lazy Boy chair. After two hours.... Lazy Boy ain't that comfortable for one. Second, I'm not the only one that feels tired or exhausted after the infusion, the other people there today also are tired for at least 24 hours afterwards. Third, people are really liking my "infusion shirt" and maybe I should start selling them and put some of the money to CCFC. I have a new one that says: F Crohn's.....it's the shits. And four, I didn't realize just how many people read this Blog. A lady today told me she reads it and it kind of made me feel.....I don't know....weird sort of. I'm glad people read it, I enjoy writing it, but I've never "met" someone that actually does, you know....it was an interesting feeling.
All in all, an interesting "Day at the Spa"
.
Today I learned a few things while sitting there trying to get comfortable in the pleather Lazy Boy chair. After two hours.... Lazy Boy ain't that comfortable for one. Second, I'm not the only one that feels tired or exhausted after the infusion, the other people there today also are tired for at least 24 hours afterwards. Third, people are really liking my "infusion shirt" and maybe I should start selling them and put some of the money to CCFC. I have a new one that says: F Crohn's.....it's the shits. And four, I didn't realize just how many people read this Blog. A lady today told me she reads it and it kind of made me feel.....I don't know....weird sort of. I'm glad people read it, I enjoy writing it, but I've never "met" someone that actually does, you know....it was an interesting feeling.
All in all, an interesting "Day at the Spa"
.
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
A Pain In The Gas
Though certain foods can cause gas when it comes to Crohn's, the hard part is figuring out which one you just ate.
Like the other day. The pain from gas was so intense, I had to come home from work. It's strange though, since being on Remicade, I have been improving. To the point where the bowel movements have been less, semi formed BUT the downside is the pain from these. As I have had numerous resections, I'm assuming that the semi formation is causing pressure on my lower intestines, thus the pain.
But the gas is something I have never experienced to this degree. Sharp pain lasting for a few seconds (10 - 15), but intense. Backtracking to figure out what I ate is difficult as I am quite good at NOT eating or drinking anything to cause me pain....duh.....but having said that, I think, think mind you, I had some Coke to drink that day.
Doesn't explain the other days though.......
.
Like the other day. The pain from gas was so intense, I had to come home from work. It's strange though, since being on Remicade, I have been improving. To the point where the bowel movements have been less, semi formed BUT the downside is the pain from these. As I have had numerous resections, I'm assuming that the semi formation is causing pressure on my lower intestines, thus the pain.
But the gas is something I have never experienced to this degree. Sharp pain lasting for a few seconds (10 - 15), but intense. Backtracking to figure out what I ate is difficult as I am quite good at NOT eating or drinking anything to cause me pain....duh.....but having said that, I think, think mind you, I had some Coke to drink that day.
Doesn't explain the other days though.......
.
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Saturday, March 22, 2014
You Might Be A Crohnie...
If you know the difference between fistulating and nonfistulating perianal disease
...you might be a Crohnie
.
...you might be a Crohnie
.
Friday, March 21, 2014
Travel Roller
For those of us that constantly have aches and pains, which (let's get serious), is all of us that live with Crohn's, or ANY illness for that matter, the Travel Roller is a great 'little' product to take out the muscle aches and pains. Works great on my calves.
https://www.TravelRoller.com/?ref=532a2572-aa34-4590-aad2-4bb143cd78d6&banner=4" >
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https://www.TravelRoller.com/?ref=532a2572-aa34-4590-aad2-4bb143cd78d6&banner=4" >
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Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Monday, March 10, 2014
Friday, March 7, 2014
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Remicade : Day 582 - You're So Vein....
Nothing exciting about this infusion, or the last 6 weeks since my last infusion. I have been doing pretty good actually. A little pain now and again, but that's par for the course. But I wanted to touch on something that I'm sure every Crohnie comes across and that's having crappy veins!
I hate having crappy veins. You know....when it comes times to have an IV and the nurse can't seem to find one. I've had heat applied, bright lights, 2 tourniquets at once and my personal favorite, the old smack, smack, smack. So now, what I do before my infusion is I heat up my hand. Not unusual you might ask?? When I say I heat it up, I mean before I even leave for my infusion, I run my hand under hot water for awhile, then dry it quick and put on one of my ski gloves. About 5 minutes before arriving, I take off my glove and stick it in front of my car dash heat to heat it up some more until I get in to the parking lot. As soon as I turn off the car, I put the glove back on and as soon as I sit down in the nice Lazy Boy, I take off the glove again and wrap it up in a heating blanket. By the time she comes with the IV, my veins are popping!! Today was so good, I didn't feel it go in. Awesome!!
.
I hate having crappy veins. You know....when it comes times to have an IV and the nurse can't seem to find one. I've had heat applied, bright lights, 2 tourniquets at once and my personal favorite, the old smack, smack, smack. So now, what I do before my infusion is I heat up my hand. Not unusual you might ask?? When I say I heat it up, I mean before I even leave for my infusion, I run my hand under hot water for awhile, then dry it quick and put on one of my ski gloves. About 5 minutes before arriving, I take off my glove and stick it in front of my car dash heat to heat it up some more until I get in to the parking lot. As soon as I turn off the car, I put the glove back on and as soon as I sit down in the nice Lazy Boy, I take off the glove again and wrap it up in a heating blanket. By the time she comes with the IV, my veins are popping!! Today was so good, I didn't feel it go in. Awesome!!
.
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Bloated?
I've been asked again about bloating and how can you stop it.
I don't think there is any real way of stopping it, in my opinion, unfortunately.
I think you can, as a Crohnie, limit the amount of times you get this way....but stopping it? uh-uh
The majority of the bloating comes from food and drink, but also from certain meds and, ironically, air. Gulping when you eat or drink, chewing gum, talking whilst you eat and even eating too fast can cause bloating.
For me, I always, and I mean always avoid gaseous foods like cabbage, cauliflower, onions, potatoes, asparagus, cucumbers, raisons, apples, cheese, milk, nuts, and fiber in general. It's the sugars and fiber in the foods and drinks that cause a lot of the problems. aspartame is very, very bad, no matter what you're told how good it is. If you want sugar, try honey.
Everyone is different, it's trial and error, you'll figure it out eventually.
I'm still figuring it out after more than 25 years......
.
I don't think there is any real way of stopping it, in my opinion, unfortunately.
I think you can, as a Crohnie, limit the amount of times you get this way....but stopping it? uh-uh
The majority of the bloating comes from food and drink, but also from certain meds and, ironically, air. Gulping when you eat or drink, chewing gum, talking whilst you eat and even eating too fast can cause bloating.
For me, I always, and I mean always avoid gaseous foods like cabbage, cauliflower, onions, potatoes, asparagus, cucumbers, raisons, apples, cheese, milk, nuts, and fiber in general. It's the sugars and fiber in the foods and drinks that cause a lot of the problems. aspartame is very, very bad, no matter what you're told how good it is. If you want sugar, try honey.
Everyone is different, it's trial and error, you'll figure it out eventually.
I'm still figuring it out after more than 25 years......
.
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Dinner And A Movie...???
Simple question this time of year isn't it?
This Friday is Valentine's Day and it's so easy to plan a great day or night with the love of your life.....if you didn't have Crohn's.
For me, it's dinner OR a movie, or movie first THEN dinner. I would love to, one time, be able to do 2 things:
1. PLAN to go out to dinner and go to a movie
2. SPUR of the moment dinner and a movie
The problem with number 1, is that with Crohn's, I can never PLAN to do, well....anything. Sorry, wait....that's wrong. I CAN plan to do things, but it's with the understanding that at any moment, the 'plan' can be cancelled.
The problem with number 2, I have to plan a spur of the moment, which of course doesn't make it spur of the moment anymore. If I want to just say, "Hey, let's go out to a movie", first I have to think, what have I eaten today, will I be going to the bathroom soon (depending on what I ate), will I be thinking the whole time while out, when will I be going to the bathroom (depending on what I ate that day).
Going back to number 1, for me, knowing we were going to dinner and a movie, I would only eat bread or toast with peanut butter and drink water or tea/coffee for the day leading up to leaving. At dinner, I would only order things I know would affect me less. Avoiding creams, all green leafy veggies, alcohol, fried food, heavy food, gaseous food, to name just a few, knowing that after eating, I still need to sit through a two or three hour movie. Not so easy....or fun.
Luckily I have a great, wonderful and loving wife that has understood me and my condition since day one. I know she would love to do more with me and the kids and I hate the fact I have to think about all this just to do something simple. I'll make it up to her one day.
So, when you say to your loved ones, let's just go do something today, like dinner and a movie, in the spur of the moment, think for a moment just how easy it is........for you, the non-IBD'r.
Because for me, the IBD'r, it goes from a simple statement, to a major, stressful, planned event.
Yes, it IS stressful and upsetting.
Happy Valentine's Day!!
.
This Friday is Valentine's Day and it's so easy to plan a great day or night with the love of your life.....if you didn't have Crohn's.
For me, it's dinner OR a movie, or movie first THEN dinner. I would love to, one time, be able to do 2 things:
1. PLAN to go out to dinner and go to a movie
2. SPUR of the moment dinner and a movie
The problem with number 1, is that with Crohn's, I can never PLAN to do, well....anything. Sorry, wait....that's wrong. I CAN plan to do things, but it's with the understanding that at any moment, the 'plan' can be cancelled.
The problem with number 2, I have to plan a spur of the moment, which of course doesn't make it spur of the moment anymore. If I want to just say, "Hey, let's go out to a movie", first I have to think, what have I eaten today, will I be going to the bathroom soon (depending on what I ate), will I be thinking the whole time while out, when will I be going to the bathroom (depending on what I ate that day).
Going back to number 1, for me, knowing we were going to dinner and a movie, I would only eat bread or toast with peanut butter and drink water or tea/coffee for the day leading up to leaving. At dinner, I would only order things I know would affect me less. Avoiding creams, all green leafy veggies, alcohol, fried food, heavy food, gaseous food, to name just a few, knowing that after eating, I still need to sit through a two or three hour movie. Not so easy....or fun.
Luckily I have a great, wonderful and loving wife that has understood me and my condition since day one. I know she would love to do more with me and the kids and I hate the fact I have to think about all this just to do something simple. I'll make it up to her one day.
So, when you say to your loved ones, let's just go do something today, like dinner and a movie, in the spur of the moment, think for a moment just how easy it is........for you, the non-IBD'r.
Because for me, the IBD'r, it goes from a simple statement, to a major, stressful, planned event.
Yes, it IS stressful and upsetting.
Happy Valentine's Day!!
.
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Sunday, January 19, 2014
Friday, January 17, 2014
Remicade : Day 540
Closing in on a thousand days. It's helped a lot as far as pain is concerned, but I still get abscesses/fistulas, in what I can only describe as the "oddest" places.
So when people ask me if it's working, I have to say 'yes'. Do I wish it did more..? Of course. But I wouldn't change a thing and only wish I had taken my specialists' advice and started the Remicade years earlier.
.
So when people ask me if it's working, I have to say 'yes'. Do I wish it did more..? Of course. But I wouldn't change a thing and only wish I had taken my specialists' advice and started the Remicade years earlier.
.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
A Day In The Life?
5:50 am and the alarm bell rings. Time to get up.
The mind says, "get up", but the old weary body, says, "not yet, just a few minutes more."
But, it's time.
You push yourself up, muscles aching, bones cracking, into a sitting position on the edge of the bed catching your breath. Force yourself up to the standing position and shuffle your feet along the carpet towards the bathroom, holding your lower back, to have a shower.
You prop yourself against the counter and gaze in to the mirror barely opening your eyes to see a tired weary face squinting back. A couple of deep, deep breathes make you feel a little better but your shoulders, arms, neck, knees, back and the worst are your elbows, which ache like the tin man without oil.
Is this the morning ritual of a 75 year old man?
Nope...
....it's the first 10 minutes of the day for a 45 year old Crohn's survivalist, the days before infusion.
.
The mind says, "get up", but the old weary body, says, "not yet, just a few minutes more."
But, it's time.
You push yourself up, muscles aching, bones cracking, into a sitting position on the edge of the bed catching your breath. Force yourself up to the standing position and shuffle your feet along the carpet towards the bathroom, holding your lower back, to have a shower.
You prop yourself against the counter and gaze in to the mirror barely opening your eyes to see a tired weary face squinting back. A couple of deep, deep breathes make you feel a little better but your shoulders, arms, neck, knees, back and the worst are your elbows, which ache like the tin man without oil.
Is this the morning ritual of a 75 year old man?
Nope...
....it's the first 10 minutes of the day for a 45 year old Crohn's survivalist, the days before infusion.
.
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
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