by Beamlak Alebel (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)
A spray-painted yellow smiley face and white text that reads “stay safe” on the cement.
Living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has taught me an unforgettable truth, that is the battle I face every single day. It is not a one time event or temporary struggle, it is an ongoing challenge that affects every part of who I am. It is not just physical, it is emotional, mental and spiritual. Every decision I make has the power either to support my healing or challenge it.
From my personal journey, I have learned something I believe is absolutely essential for a person living with IBD: understanding our condition is crucial. The more we know about IBD – the symptoms, the triggers, the treatment options – the better prepared we are to manage it with strength and confidence.
But I have also come to realize another powerful truth: what works for me might not work for someone else. Each of our bodies is beautifully unique, and that is why it is so important to slow down, reflect, and truly listen to your body.
IBD is not just about following a set of rules someone else wrote, it is about discovering and honoring your own rhythm.
I once heard my lecturer say, “I ALWAYS STAY ON MY SAFE SIDE.” That one sentence echoes in my mind on tough days. For those of us with IBD, our safe side is not just a place, it is a mindset. It is the knowledge we have gathered, the awareness we have cultivated and developed about our own bodies. Staying on our safe side means respecting our limits and standing strong in what we know helps us.
Let this journey inspire others to do the same. Let it be a reminder that even in the face of invisible battles, we have the strength to rise. Let it encourage every IBD warrior out there to listen closely to their bodies and to honor their unique paths with pride and resilience.
We fight daily not just with medication, but with courage, care, and community.
Image from Unsplash.