Jessica's Story

Age 9

My name is Jessica and I was diagnosed with crohn's disease about 3 months ago. I feel that I was some what lucky in the fact that my mommy has crohn's disease as well and with her knowledge of the symptoms was able to take me to the a GI doctor for tests.

I had a colonoscopy and endoscopy, blood tests and small bowel series done. Through all of this it was confirmed, I had crohn's disease. I am currently taking medications and starting to feel better.

I am only 9 years old so I know I still have a lot to learn about crohn's. I talk to my mommy and ask her questions. This helps make me feel better and makes my mommy and daddy feel better. I have a great doctor and we all work as a team. My family and I are going to help raise awareness. My mommy and doctor said that crohn's and colitis are showing up more and more especially in kids.

I live in Hawaii and there doesn't seem to be much awareness because of the location. I am doing very well in school and pray with my family every night that one day a cure will be found. Until then all we can do is stay positive, surround ourselves with family and friends, and most of all spread the word.

August 2006