My name is David. I'm 16 and two years ago I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. My story started right before school started my freshmen year of high school. Earlier in the year I started developing the usual IBD symptoms, but just dismissed them thinking maybe I just ate something rough. When band camp started in August it became harder and harder to get through a practice without having to sprint to the bathroom or sometimes getting extremely lightheaded. After a while it became apparent that something wasn't right. Well, four colonoscopies and many doctor appointments later I'm finally get my problem under control.
Even though this disease has a lot downsides I still try to have a completely positive attitude. My family and friends have always been there for me especially during the hardest time. When my doctor put me on prednisone I gained a lot of weight, mostly in my face. It lowered my self-esteem, but my friends found a way to cheer me up. Kids would line up down the hall to squeeze my rock solid cheeks. Another thing that has greatly helped me combat IBD is Camp Oasis. I've met some of my greatest friend at Camp.
In 2005 I was nominated to be South Dakota's Youth Ambassador for CCFA. Since then I have helped start many fundraisers at my school. I was even asked to attend the Evening of Hope dinner as a guest speaker.
To everyone with IBD, "Even when it seems like life couldn't get any worse, just think up and someday it will get better."
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