This is me!

By lellyhead15

1 min read

I have lived with IBS all my life. Once upon a time it literally ruled my life, I hardly ate out, due to it being difficult, based all my outings on bathroom facilities and never went swimming. People would assume it was just a mere stomachache and would tell me to change my diet and ask if the pain was as bad as I would make it out to be!

I met my Husband, 10 years ago and his kindness and understanding changed EVERYTHING! He researched many different things and made foods I could eat and also made plans around me and has never questioned when I'm unable to do something. He has been my rock and also main motivation, as he eats the Low FODMAP Diet, exercises, plans outings on facilities for me and has even gone to the extent of buying a portable toilet, for when we do take long trips. He has seen me at my worst and all time lows in life, but always manages to pick me up and keep our little Family together.

I have lost numerous friends and also family from having IBS. I've now come to the realization that no matter what, all that matters is who you have in your life, that truly understand you and the rest doesn't matter. I have learnt to appreciate the good days, go with the bad days and just to roll with the extremely bad days and just listen to my body. Living with IBS is hard, but it's definitely taught me a lot, not only about myself but others. Compassion goes along way, be kind as everyone is fighting their own battles.

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tmholland Contributor
Hi <inline-mention user-id="2309912" username="lellyhead15"/> , Your story captured both the difficult and the inspiring nature of this illness. Your husband sounds like a wonderful source of support and we should all be so lucky. Listening to your body and compassion are two of the most important attributes in my 'toolbox' as well. Thank you very much for sharing. -Todd, <a href='https://irritablebowelsyndrome.net' target='_blank'>IrritableBowelSyndrome.net</a>
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Hi <inline-mention user-id="2309912" username="lellyhead15"/> , I think sometimes we learn a lot about ourselves with the people we are around. Who we want to be around. Those who are patient and understanding. I dated a guy years ago, it was Sunday morning and we were going to drive out and spend the afternoon at an amusement park. That morning I had a flare and I wasn't quite ready to leave. Immediately he saids get in the car, we're going. I had to take a couple steps back to make him realize my condition again and that he needed to be patient with me. He said it was just me being nervous and that's what was causing it. Not the case as we who have ibs know. Finally he calmed down and waited until I was ready to leave. I completely agree with you on how ibs has taught you about yourself and about others. I've learned a lot too. Hope your having a better day today.
Elizabeth Alvarez Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention user-id="2309912" username="lellyhead15"/> , I'm so sorry that you have to deal with the hardships of IBS but it makes my heart so happy that your husband is such an amazing pillar of support for you. Having support makes all the difference. You have an amazing outlook, too. You absolutely have to appreciate the good days and just roll with the punches on the bad days. And of course, being kind to everyone is such an important, important lesson to learn in life. I hope you have been feeling well lately. If you're up to it, give us an update. We would love to hear from you. Big hugs, Elizabeth (team member)