Chron's piece in Newsweek

Wanted to let you all know that I have a column on chron's disease on the Newsweek Web site.

let me know what you think.

john

http://www.newsweek.com/id/81362

I just read the article, I think that it was well written and it gives a good picture of the lives we crohnies live. I am overweight and when I try and explain what we are allowed to eat, I explain it this way: anything you would normally consider eating if you were on a diet! I still try and I pray that I never have to get so sick that I lose the weight that way (although at times it seems like an easier way!! :0)) Good job. I hope that you do have a long term remission and are able to stay out of the hospital for many years!

Heather

The article is great, especially since it helps to dispell suspicions by co-workers, family and employers that Crohn's patients are simply malingerers, using their condition as an excuse. 

That article was awesome! the way you explained crohns disease was the best iv ever heard! im never great at explaining it when my friends ask what crohns is. I'll use ur answer from now on!

wow bell....im sorry u feel that way, it seems a little harsh to me.who's to say that's not what it was supposed to be, somewhat of an editorial to share his experiences. He's not a doctor, so what did you expect exactly? Now granted, it would have been awesome if Newsweek had done a follow up article mayb with some resourceful info, but i think that any one who shares their experiences with the national public is very impressive!

Guess that's why we all have our own opinions :O/

This article was meant to be written from a crohns sufferers point of veiw...I think some people may have missed that...and infact food can and does have it's impact on the disease...if we didn't eat food then it gives our bowels a rest and that can cause inflammation to go way down, which is why in severe enough cases, people with crohns do go to the hospital for bowel rest (tube feeding). Common sense, it's not proven if food is a trigger for IBD but looking at most peoples experiance here alone at HW, many have severe issues with foods, so yes, reaction to food is definitely related to having crohns.

I agree that bell was to harsh in response to this and I know we are all entitiled to our own opinions but I think the golden rule of thumb is if you don't have anything nice to say then don't say anything at all...not to mention I personally think that HW rules may have been slightly broken since it does state not to offend or hurt anyone. My opinion anyway.

:)

the writer, who is one of us could take offense.

Yogaprof you are absolutely right. I just re-read my post and I'm ashamed of myself. What was i thinking?

Climbs I hope you can forgive me.

Hey Fitzky I thought running causes what's called "runners diarhea", which is the main reason why running has never been part of my regime, but I can ride that stationary bike like there's no tomorrow.

:)

I thought the article was interesting.  I'm newly diagnosed and trying to understand what life for me is going to be like in the future.  I'm guessing that the foods that bother people with Crohns vary from person to person.  I think I will start a food diary.

I really wish I knew what belleenstein said, but since it was yanked, maybe its for the best.
I've been a journalist for 15 + years, so as long as you're attacking Newsweek, and not me, I guess I can live with it. My surgeon read the piece and said it was good, and based on everything I've been told and read, i came up with the most accurate piece I could. If its inaccurate, i'd rather you told me how its inaccurate, rather than just saying so. Seriously, I'd like to know. By the way, I had 800 words to tell MY story, not give a scientific dissertation. I think I did a good job.

From CCFA.org
"Researchers believe that the immune system mistakes microbes, such as bacteria that is normally found in the intestines, for foreign or invading substances, and launches an attack. In the process, the body sends white blood cells into the lining of the intestines, where they produce chronic inflammation. These cells then generate harmful products that ultimately lead to ulcerations and bowel injury."

I've been told that food is reacted to in the same way. Whatever.


I've never heard of "Runner's diahrea" but have heard of its symptoms especially from doctors and know of it first hand. But you have to admit, it's a darn good workout and beats riding the bike in the basement every other day.

My reaction to 6-MP meant 2 weeks in the hospital. My white cells and platletes dropped dangerously low. I had no energy, and could barely move. My Gi's nurse called me and said the doctor "really thinks I should go to the emergency room now." it was 11 a.m. and I was on a deadline. Later she told me that they were afraid that if I bumped my head I'd bleed to death or that I could catch some kind of super bug.

I'm lucky. I guess.

Thanks for reading!

Thanks for reinforcing those of us who have been nagged and gripped at by well meaning family members for not "eating right". When you try to tell them that eating a high fiber diet won't make you feel better (it makes you sick!) it's almost like they don't believe you, they think you just want an excuse to eat wonder bread. I am emailing this to my sister right away! Thanks!

I just have to add, Kitt, you rock!