IBD’s Impact on Youth Life

Presented by: The Gutsy Generation

What Is IBD?

• Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis are the two most common forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)• IBD is an autoimmune condition• Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive system • Ulcerative colitis occurs in the colon

Who Does It Affect?

• Over 200,000 Canadians • Canada has highest prevalence of IBD in the world• Anyone can be affected• Ages 15-24• Most prevalent in Maritimes/Newfoundland

How Does It Feel?

• Stomach pains• Frequent trips to the washroom• Weight loss• Fatigue• Other side effects

Living with IBDIs there a Cure?

•No known cause or cure•Remission/Flare ups •Lifestyle changes•Diet •Medication•Surgery

Coping with the Emotional Affects of IBD

• Feeling alone • Embarrassment• Taboos• Left hiding in the stalls• Constant worry

Complications in School Life

• Missing classes and assignments “You’re so lucky”• Fatigue and motivation • Playing catch-up• Feeling out of the loop• An ‘invisible’ disease “But you look fine”

Relationships with Friends

• Support / Lack of support• Understanding / Misunderstandings• Possible limitations• Missed adventures• How friends can help Eg. Hospital stays

Surviving & Thriving

• IBD has many defining characteristics• BUT remember: It does not define a person!• Lifestyle changes • Finding new hobbies• Creating new habits • Learn to manage both body and disease

Taking Action What Can You Do?

• Get informed• Create awareness about IBD• Help educate others• Volunteer with the CCFC• Participate in a CCFC fundraiser• Join The Gutsy Generation

What Is The Gutsy Generation?

• An identity for youth affected directly or indirectly by IBD• Created by youth – for youth! • Great way to connect with other youth• Fun & interactive!

Action * Support * TeamWork * Exciting * Gutsy

www.thegutsygeneration.ca

Volunteer Opportunities

• CCFC Event Volunteer (One day)• CCFC Taskforce Member• Member, The Gutsy Generation• Event Organizer, The Gutsy Generation• Start a ‘Gutsy Generation Club’ •“CCFC Youth Voice” • Youth Advisory Council Member

Get Gutsy Get InvolvedTouching the lives of

others…

• Help other YOUTH• Over 200, 000 Canadians• Future IBD patients• Your family and friends