It's Complicated: A Mom's Diary of Life with a VEO-IBD Kid

    Today, May 19, 2023, is World Inflammatory Bowel Disease Day. A large part of the reason that we started the foundation in Connor’s name was to raise awareness. What better day to share a little bit of information about IBD and Very Early Onset IBD than on this day?      Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a term used to describe two conditions, Chron’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, both characterized by chronic inflammation of the GI tract. Very Early Onset Inflammatory Bowel Disease (VEO-IBD) is the term used to describe IBD when it is diagnosed in a child age 6 years or younger. Connor’s specific diagnosis is Very Early Onset Inflammatory Bowel Disease Ulcerative Colitis. Currently there is no cure for IBD. The goal for patients is to obtain long-term remission. It is almost exactly two years since we received his diagnosis, and we are no closer to achieving that goal than we were two years ago.      You might be wondering what cause...

    As Mother’s Day is winding down, I’m sitting here reflecting on all of the emotions that go along with having kids. The pure joy of being given the gift of motherhood, the raging anxiety of not having a clue as to what you’re doing, the happiness when you see your kid(s) happy, the heartbreak you feel for them when they’re sick, or hurt, or disappointed, the fear that you’re royally screwing them up, the pride you feel when you watch them succeed, and then arguably the biggest one – the mom guilt. Being a mom means you get to ride an emotional rollercoaster for life. If you’re anything like me; you weren’t prepared for the ride.      No one warns you about the emotions that come with being a mom. One day you’re living your best life, living carefree, and the next you’re responsible for this tiny little human who came without a manual. You have all of these hopes and dreams for your kids, but will never truly be able to plan or prepare yourself for wha...