Can you walk us through your journey - from the onset of symptoms to getting a diagnosis and eventually finding relief?
I was diagnosed with Crohn's in 2014. I developed antibodies to many of the biologics used to treat the condition. I had a bowel resection in 2016 and was disease free for 3 years after that. When my disease returned, it returned somewhere difficult to treat. A new medication and innovative procedure put me in remission again. I was then recruited for this [Intestinal Microbiota Transplantation] study.
How has living with Crohn's Disease affected your daily activities and overall well-being?
Everyday is unpredictable, even in remission, because of permanent scarring that resulted from the disease. Some days I can do a lot, but other days I can do very little.
What treatments or medications did you try before Intestinal Microbiota Transplantation (IMT)? How did they work for you?
I developed antibodies to Remicade and Humira. Entyvio worked after my resection but eventually failed. Stelara has worked well.
How many Intestinal Microbiota Transplantation treatments did you receive?
I got one treatment.
What thoughts or concerns did you have prior to undergoing IMT?
None, really.
Do you feel like IMT has helped you regain your quality of life? How important has it been in your overall recovery?
Yes, I have been able to tolerate more foods than I had previously. I also believe it had helped keep me in remission.
Looking back on your experience, what advice or words of encouragement would you share with someone newly diagnosed with Crohn's Disease?
New medications and ways of treatment are being developed all the time. In the 10 years since my diagnosis things have improved so much. Having IBD isn't fun - but it is the best time to have it. You can still have a life, even if it looks a bit different.
Is there anything else you'd like to add about your experience?
I highly recommend going to an IBD specialist at a major research hospital!
