Have a friend or loved one who has ulcerative colitis? This story may just give them hope. | Photo Finish Photography | Sydney Photographer
Today is the first day of spring: flowers in bloom, and a time for birth, renewal and change. For Stephanie, it's the 6 year anniversary of her ulcerative colitis diagnosis.
Stephanie (45) came in for a photo shoot recently to celebrate this milestone and to share her story in the hope that it would help others on a similar journey. She didn't know anyone who had it and didn't know what to expect. Now that she's learned so much about living with UC, she wants to help others going through the same thing. Read more about her journey with UC below!
"6 years ago today, I received my wake up call. It came by way of a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis - an incurable autoimmune disease of the large intestine. In my wildest dreams, I could not have foreseen the roller coaster ride which ensued: specialist appointments, a litany of drugs, each stronger than the last, with little reprieve from this debilitating disease.
I spent enough time in hospital that it almost became a second home. However, I wouldn’t swap the last six years of my life for anything in the world. It has been a journey involving: denial, confusion, despair, depression, perseverance, joy, happiness and peace.
It has allowed me to see the best of humanity from my husband, children, family and friends, medical professionals and total strangers.
Two years ago, my life took another turn. Precancerous cells were found in my large intestine and an operation was the only solution. I felt such relief as I realised that my daily battle was over. I had the operation to remove my large intestine and a stoma was created in its place. I wear an ostomy bag over my stoma and it needs to be changed daily. While the first few months posed some challenges as I adapted to these changes, I can honestly say that overall, I took to my new life like a duck to water.
I am grateful for my ostomy bag and on this anniversary, I want to do my part to help demystify stomas, ostomy bags and this is the purpose of the photos that I share with you in this post.
Ulcerative colitis, you came into my life 6 years ago, you turned it upside down but you led me on a journey which has brought me closer to myself. You are truly the best thing which has ever happened to me and all I can say is Thank You. 😊⭐️♥️
Acknowledgements: Thank You to Olivia Sutton from Photo Finish Photography who showed such flair, creativity and sensitivity in taking these photos. Thank you also to Zara who assisted her on the day. I could not have done this photoshoot without the two of you ♥️" - Steph
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