New to site, but not new to Crohns!

Hi everybody! I've had Crohns since 1995. I am 39 now, diagnosed at 25 and have had my share of surgeries and setbacks! Colon removed in 1998 after being on medication since diag. First diagnosed, went from 200lbs to 138 in 8 months!When diag,I was stunned at the discovery of Crohns. I did not know what this was until then. I spent 6 yrs in the army and have now made a career at HVAC technician despite having a permanant illeostomy. Since then, I have had 5 surgeries (to date). My doctor jokes about installing a zipper in my abdomen!! I have a loving and supportive wife and am the father of 2 little boys and have recently found a new hobby in deer hunting. Currently on Imuran, Humira injections, Tramadol for pain, Trazadone for depression and some osteoporosis med I can't remember the name of. Currently in remission but worry with every visit to the doc that they'll tell me I need ANOTHER surgery. Glad to find a supportive site. 

Welcome....this is one of the best site's I've found.
You get viewpoints of treatment from different parts of the world, and has kept me current on treatment meds...
Hope to see you post again...

You've had quite a rough little journey! I became a "chronie" in 1997, diagnosed the day of my 21st birthday, but have so far managed to avoid the dreaded surgeon's knife. It sounds like despite all of your hardships that you've manged to land "buttered side up" as the expression goes. It is always encouraging to hear that!

welcome to the site, too!! I am also a Crohnie with an ostomy...there is an ostomy forum here with some great help...come visit:)