Musing over a weight gain and IBD
By Mahder Ayalew from Ethiopia
Growing up, I always faced the challenge of being thin and constantly falling sick. I vividly remember being just 28 kg (62 pounds) when I was 12 years old. My health was a constant concern, and I found myself visiting hospitals often in search of the cause of my poor health. However, for six long years, the cause remained elusive.
Finally, the culprit behind my health issues was discovered - Crohn's disease. Although finding the cause brought some relief, the treatment plan involved the use of steroids, As expected, I rapidly gained weight, putting on 10 kg (22 pounds) in just three months. My appetite became insatiable, and I started feeling healthier as the pain began to subside. But this newfound stability was short-lived.
Whenever I went off the steroids, my appetite would decrease, leading to weight loss, and my hopes would diminish. This cycle repeated itself for the next seven years. Despite the turbulence, the journey was worth it, as my quality of life improved significantly after my diagnosis.
Four months ago, I underwent surgery due to a fistula, and a portion of my stomach was removed. The surgeon was confident that I would gain weight after the procedure. Many of his patients experienced weight gain within just a few weeks. However, I remained skeptical, as I had never gained weight without the aid of steroids. My expectations were set low.
But a few days ago, as I stepped onto the weighing scale, I noticed a change. It wasn't a dramatic transformation, but it was enough to make me question whether I had truly gained weight. I rushed to the pharmacy to confirm it, and to my surprise, the scale was correct. I had gained almost 4 kg (8.8 pounds) without the assistance of steroids. This revelation triggered a flood of emotions within me.
I felt happiness and relief at finally achieving weight gain without the use of medication. However, I was also filled with fear, unsure of whether I would be able to maintain this weight or if I would experience a downward spiral once again. All my life, I had yearned for a sense of normalcy - a normal weight, a normal life. Perhaps this is the start of that journey. Perhaps I should celebrate this achievement. Maybe, just maybe, the future holds good things for me. I hold on to my faith with determination.
One positive aspect that emerged from my Crohn's diagnosis is a newfound appreciation for life's simple pleasures. I no longer take things for granted and express gratitude on pain-free days. I am grateful when I can eat with a healthy appetite, when I have enough energy to carry out my daily tasks, and when I experience a break from the burden of illness.
Although uncertainty lingers, the hope for a brighter future burns within me. My journey with Crohn's disease has been challenging, but it has also taught me resilience, gratitude, and the importance of cherishing the moments of respite. I continue to face my health battles with determination, taking each day as it comes, and trusting that the road ahead will lead me to a life that surpasses normalcy - a life filled with happiness, growth, and a sense of fulfillment.
Featured photo by Ann H from Pexels