Dear Crohn's,

As we begin Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week I thought I should stop and take a moment to address you, the center of attention. This week is not only a time to give attention to the bad that you do, but also the good that can come from you.

When you came into my life almost seven years ago, I didn't know what to expect. You've thrown me quite a few curveballs during our time together. I had never heard of you before and I was scared and angry that you chose me. I was in the 8th grade just trying to fit in during all the chaos of junior high. As I got sicker and sicker and was put on Remicade and Prednisone and Methotrexate I continued to wonder why I had gotten stuck with you. But dear old Crohn's, the school I missed made me work ten times harder and for that, I am grateful.

When they told me I needed surgery I was fearful. 7 hours in the operating room? A week in the ICU? An ostomy bag for the first 3 months of high school? But I did it and I made it through and after a few weeks, I was actually starting to feel like I did before you.

But of course, you couldn't ever leave me alone. Crohn's, you're the longest relationship I've ever had. At times we're on-again-off-again, but for the most part, I can count on you to always be there. I'll always have to have colonoscopies and blood tests and give myself shots but I've come to accept you.

You've taught me a lot about myself and who I want to become. I'll never let you win. You've taught me how to be strong. You've taught me that everyone is fighting an invisible battle and I am thankful for that. I'll never stop fighting you. You won't stop me from living my life.