Docs with IBD?

My first GI claimed to have irritable bowel syndrome. I thought since she was young, female and of Indian descent, she might be more open-minded than some of the mainstream, older docs. I was wrong. I didn't find her being a fellow gastric sufferer to make her any more understanding or supportive than other GIs I've seen. In fact, when I was originally diagnosed with UC and asked what lifestyle or dietary adjustments I could make to improve my situation, she said, "You have a chronic disease. You will never be well. You will stay on medication the rest of your life until you get sick enough to have your colon removed." Then she seemed surprised that I burst into tears. Go figure.

My dentist has had Crohn's colitis for over 20 yrs-- since diagnosis while in dental school. The fact that he managed to fight off this vile ailment, graduate with honors, complete the required residencies, start a private practice, etc. + undergo surgery on ileum/ascending colon at one point never fails to impress me. For over a decade now he's done well on an immunomodulator/5-ASA combo, he looks fit, & has a good energy level. He learned how to pace himself in daily office practice & generally has a good rapport with support staff & patients. I'm probably among a few who know he has IBD! It has definitely been helpful to me being able to discuss various aspects of medical treatment with him over the yrs. He has a wry sense of humor & inspires me to hang in there if/when UC gets me down. / Old Hat (nearly 30 yrs with left-sided UC ... [etc.])

I'm sure you right Kspace :)

I've never had a doc that had an IBD but my primary's mother had Uc until she had her colon removed. My primary is one of the best I've ever had because she knows what it's like (or can sympathize) with my problems and offers solutions around my Uc.

I did ask my GI though when I had to have my last scope if he had ever taken the prep for it. And he said, yes he did just the past year because he had to have a scope - preventive screening. He then stated that he now knows what it's like to be on the receiving end!