It was 2018 when I first heard the words "inflammatory bowel disease" from my doctor in Ethiopia. For months, I had struggled with stomach pain, fatigue, and uncertainty about what was happening to my body. When the diagnosis came, it hit me hard. I remember feeling overwhelmed, as if a weight had settled on my chest. My mind flooded with questions: Would I still be able to pursue my dreams? Would I ever feel normal again? Those questions stayed with me, but what I didn’t realize then was that this illness would not only test my resilience but also teach me lessons about strength, hope, and purpose.

Breaking the Misconceptions About IBD 

There are many misconceptions about IBD, and these misunderstandings can make the journey even harder. Some people assume that it’s just a “stomach problem” or that it’s something curable with the right diet or medication. But IBD is a lifelong, incurable condition. It affects not just the digestive system but also one’s mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life. The surgeries, medications, and daily struggles aren’t visible to others, which can lead to feelings of isolation. IBD also comes with stigma, especially in a society where digestive issues aren’t openly discussed. As someone living in Ethiopia, I’ve faced cultural barriers in explaining my condition to others. Many don’t understand why I can’t eat certain foods or why I have to visit the hospital so often. 

Facing the Challenges

Living with IBD has been one of the most challenging experiences of my life. The journey has impacted my education, lifestyle and overall well-being. Living with IBD, including the complications and the medication side effects, has been a constant battle. Despite this invisible illness, I have found myself strong within the challenges and learned to manage the condition and adapt to continue my life on my own terms.

But despite my determination, the disease took a heavy toll, especially on my education. I had to pause my studies multiple times due to health complications, including surgeries. It was heartbreaking to watch my peers move forward while I felt left behind. IBD has stolen much of my childhood and early adulthood, forcing me to grow up faster than I was ready for. But even in those dark moments, I found ways to keep going. Yet, in the midst of these struggles, I discovered resilience. I learned to adapt and find strength in the face of adversity. Over time, I realized that IBD was not just a source of pain, it was also a catalyst for growth and purpose. 

The Gift of Empathy 

Before my diagnosis, I was living a typical life. Like many young people, I went through the motions of daily routines, not giving much thought to the bigger picture. But IBD forced me to see life differently. It pushed me to reflect deeply on my purpose and values. I came to realize that life’s unexpected challenges, while painful, can shape us in profound ways. For me, that change came with a renewed perspective on resilience and empathy. One of the most profound lessons IBD has taught me is the importance of connection. Before this journey, I didn’t fully understand the depth of other people’s struggles. But now, when I meet someone going through a difficult time, I feel a deep sense of compassion. I can relate to their pain, their uncertainties, and their fears. Living with IBD has given me the gift of empathy, and for that, I am grateful.

Finding Strength in Advocacy 

From the moment of diagnosis, I sought knowledge about my illness and wanted to know more about this invisible illness. Despite its challenges, IBD has shaped me into a stronger person. It has inspired me to advocate for others living with this condition. In 2025, I became a fellow of the Crohn’s and Colitis Young Adults Network (CCYAN) IBD program. I am very excited to be a part of this organization where I work to raise awareness about IBD and support others navigating similar struggles. Sharing my story has allowed me to connect with people around the world who feel seen and understood for the first time. I’ve also returned to my studies, determined to pursue a career in healthcare. As a second-year pharmacy student, I want to use my education and experiences to make a difference in the lives of others. IBD may have slowed me down, but it has not stopped me.

Lessons Learned 

IBD has taught me life's most valuable lessons. Through this journey, I’ve learned to embrace life’s unpredictability. Challenges, as painful as they are, often carry hidden lessons. They teach us about our own strength, our ability to adapt, and the importance of compassion. I’ve also learned to appreciate the small victories—the days when I feel good, the moments when I can laugh with loved ones, and the opportunities to help others. Living with IBD has opened my heart in ways I never thought possible. And while I wouldn’t have chosen this path, I am proud of the person I’ve become because of it. Generally, to anyone facing hardships, I want to say, don’t give up. Keep moving forward and trust the process. God’s timing is never early, never late; it requires patience and faith, but it's always worth the wait.