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IBD’s Impact on Youth Life
Presented by: The Gutsy Generation
What Is IBD?
• Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis are the two most common forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)• IBD is an autoimmune condition• Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive system • Ulcerative colitis occurs in the colon
Who Does It Affect?
• Over 200,000 Canadians • Canada has highest prevalence of IBD in the world• Anyone can be affected• Ages 15-24• Most prevalent in Maritimes/Newfoundland
How Does It Feel?
• Stomach pains• Frequent trips to the washroom• Weight loss• Fatigue• Other side effects
Living with IBDIs there a Cure?
•No known cause or cure•Remission/Flare ups •Lifestyle changes•Diet •Medication•Surgery
Coping with the Emotional Affects of IBD
• Feeling alone • Embarrassment• Taboos• Left hiding in the stalls• Constant worry
Complications in School Life
• Missing classes and assignments “You’re so lucky”• Fatigue and motivation • Playing catch-up• Feeling out of the loop• An ‘invisible’ disease “But you look fine”
Relationships with Friends
• Support / Lack of support• Understanding / Misunderstandings• Possible limitations• Missed adventures• How friends can help Eg. Hospital stays
Surviving & Thriving
• IBD has many defining characteristics• BUT remember: It does not define a person!• Lifestyle changes • Finding new hobbies• Creating new habits • Learn to manage both body and disease
Taking Action What Can You Do?
• Get informed• Create awareness about IBD• Help educate others• Volunteer with the CCFC• Participate in a CCFC fundraiser• Join The Gutsy Generation
What Is The Gutsy Generation?
• An identity for youth affected directly or indirectly by IBD• Created by youth – for youth! • Great way to connect with other youth• Fun & interactive!
Action * Support * TeamWork * Exciting * Gutsy
www.thegutsygeneration.ca
Volunteer Opportunities
• CCFC Event Volunteer (One day)• CCFC Taskforce Member• Member, The Gutsy Generation• Event Organizer, The Gutsy Generation• Start a ‘Gutsy Generation Club’ •“CCFC Youth Voice” • Youth Advisory Council Member
Get Gutsy Get InvolvedTouching the lives of
others…
• Help other YOUTH• Over 200, 000 Canadians• Future IBD patients• Your family and friends