Meet Matthew
Matthew has lived with Crohn's disease and Colitis, chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) that affect the digestive system. His journey is one of resilience, adaptation, and getting his life back. After having a stoma, Matthew regained his independence. He could travel with confidence, exercise, spend more time with family and friends, and focus on living instead of managing constant symptoms. Following surgery and positive lifestyle changes, he is now stoma-free and continues to successfully manage his IBD.
More about Crohn's and Colitis
Crohn's disease and Ulcerative Colitis are lifelong conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue, weight loss, and unpredictable flare-ups. For some people, surgery offers a better quality of life and may involve creating a stoma: an opening in the abdomen that allows waste to pass into a stoma bag.
The two main types are:
Ileostomy: The small intestine is brought through the abdominal wall.
Colostomy: Part of the large intestine is brought through the abdominal wall.
While the idea of a stoma can feel daunting, for many people it is a life-changing step that restores freedom and quality of life.
About CHK IN.
Turning health stories into greater awareness and inspiration. At CHK IN., we believe some of the most powerful health education comes from the people living it every day. Through stories like this, we're working to create greater awareness, stronger communities, and more meaningful conversations around health.
Connect with CHK IN.
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