I am a Health Psychologist from Cork and I live with Ulcerative Colitis (UC). I was diagnosed with UC in 2019 while living in New Zealand. My symptoms were initially mild.
In January 2021 my UC symptoms returned, this time more serious. I was in the toilet 20 times a day, blood and mucous in my stools, significant weight loss and severe abdominal pain. I was admitted to hospital for the first time at the beginning of February, the week I was due to start my Health Psychology internship with the University of Auckland. Oral steroids helped the symptoms gradually subside and the gastroenterologist suggested I begin a biologic drug for longer term use. Over the next 8 months, I was admitted to hospital 6 times with varying degrees of success from biologics and steroids. I was physically and emotionally exhausted. On top of being unwell, I was continuing my degree with a high workload. Thankfully, the University of Auckland and my manager at my internship were supportive, I successfully complete my degree on time in 2022. I am grateful for the support of my husband, who was there with me every step of the way.
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