Relationships

Tips from GWGs

We asked our community for their tips on how they navigate relationships with IBD and/or Ostomy

• “Having open conversations with my family. I honestly didn’t know what Crohn’s was but together we researched and they supported me the whole way, even prior to being diagnosed.”
• “I was in contact with my best friends constantly while I was in the hospital being diagnosed so as soon as I knew what was wrong with me, they were one of the first to know. They did their own research as I researched myself. I’m really grateful to have two best friends like that.”
• “ I have an ostomy so I try to wait til at least the 3rd date since I want them to know me first.”
• “Mine have usually seen it first hand after a couple of dates where we eat. I did usually try to avoid food before a date for the first few just to avoid the topic until I figured out if it would be worth it.”
• “Never told them – unless it was necessary. And when I mentioned it, I did after a few dates. It’s something that can scare people away. They need time to process and to decide if they want to get along with it or not. So it’s a tricky choice for everyone I guess.”
• “I tell people right away. With new romantic partners I tell them before the first date. IBD is such a huge part of my life and informs how I live. So, it feels like it is something necessary to bring up early.”