Young dancer enjoys SCD and finds time to motivate others

Guest post by Tracy and Atty

Tracy: My daughter Atty was diagnosed with severe Crohn’s in July 2016. Her GI doctor said it was the worst colon she had seen. Crohn’s was present in her esophagus and throughout her colon, as well as a terrible skin rash all over her legs and part of her upper body. Needless to say, the hospital stay was harrowing, as it included two blood transfusions, a colonoscopy, endoscopy, and an MRE.

I have never felt as bewildered and helpless as I felt watching my daughter lose weight by the day (she was already extremely thin to begin with) and trying to figure out what was wrong with her. We started Prednisone in the hospital, along with Methotrexate and Remicade. Two months later, I discovered SCD, and she has been 100% vigilant ever since. We stopped Methotrexate on 1/2017, so she is currently on SCD and Remicade.

Atty shocked me by starting an Instagram called “TheAutoImmuneFighters” and posting encouraging scripture, and positive messages. She posted this (below) recently, and it made me so grateful to God for her health, her faith, and her positive outlook:

Atty: Today marks a year since I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. Ever since the flare that left me in the hospital for a week last summer, I have changed my diet, gained 30 much needed pounds, been on a steroid, given myself shots, lost over half of my hair due to a medication, gone in for infusions, had numerous blood drawings and tests, and much more. I couldn’t be more thankful for these obstacles that have made me the strong person I am today. God has truly helped me so much through this difficult disease, and I’m so grateful that I have been blessed with no flares for this year! I’m so thankful for the support of my wonderful family, friends, and teachers. #1yearAnniversarySinceCrohnsDiagnosis #EatHealthyBeHealthy