On August, 27th 2021 I went to the ER for what I hoped to be a few days of IV steroids to treat a Crohn’s flare that I couldn’t get control of at home.  Little did I know that this visit would turn into a total of 28 days in the hospital and 3 surgeries in less than two months. Surgeries that left me with an ileostomy and a bowel resection.There were many complications and scary times, but I was still left with hope this life wouldn’t be this way forever.  Then,  in August 2022 I learned that despite colon rest my disease still progressed.  After multiple appointments and pelvic complications I had to make the decision to have my colon removed.  On January 16th, 2023 I had another major surgery and now am left with an ileostomy forever.  While I have accepted life without a colon and a bag attached to me forever, my journey doesn’t end there. Since 2023 and into 2025 I have constantly battled significant small bowel Crohn’s, liver complications, and serious infections.  I have many hurdles and tests ahead of me, some very overwhelming and worrisome. But, my village is huge and my doctor is wonderful.  I havent been able to kick Crohn’s butt, in fact it’s kicking my butt. However, I am determined to get through this. Life has had to slow down a bit for me and things are not as easy, but my love for hiking, skiing, running, traveling, and spending as much time with my family and friends remains a priority.  Please follow my blog as I share my story with hopes that I will give others the strength to get through their own difficult journeys. Life is tough, but we only get one so why not  live it the best way we can?